Tregiffian Burial Chamber
Tregiffian Burial Chamber
Highlight • Natural Monument
Cycling
5.0
(15)
Hiking
4.2
(5)
Gravel riding
5.0
(1)
The Tregiffian Burial Chamber is a significant Neolithic or early Bronze Age chambered tomb, nestled in the historic landscape of west Cornwall, United Kingdom. Situated near the charming village of Lamorna, between St Buryan and Penzance, this ancient monument stands at an elevation of approximately 96 metres. It is a rare example of an "entrance grave," a distinctive type of passage grave found on the Cornish mainland, with its closest relatives located on the Isles of Scilly. This historical site…
Tips
May 15, 2024
Cycling
April 21, 2025
Hiking
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Best routes near Tregiffian Burial Chamber
4.4
(18)
127
riders
36.3km
02:26
430m
430m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(9)
95
riders
28.2km
01:58
480m
480m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(12)
86
riders
30.1km
01:56
380m
380m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Elevation 100 m
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Thursday 9 April
11°C
7°C
29 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 40.0 km/h
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While the immediate area around the burial chamber is generally flat, the site is an ancient monument in a natural setting. Access involves navigating potentially uneven ground or grassy paths. There isn't specific infrastructure for wheelchair access, so visitors with mobility challenges might find it difficult to reach the chamber itself.
Tregiffian Burial Chamber is located in a rural area of Cornwall. While there are local bus services that operate in the Penwith District, direct public transport to the site itself may be limited. It's advisable to check local bus routes and schedules, particularly those serving Penzance, St Buryan, and Lamorna, and be prepared for a walk from the nearest bus stop. Planning your journey in advance is recommended.
The site itself is a historical monument, offering an educational experience for families interested in ancient history. While there aren't specific 'activities' at the chamber, its proximity to the Merry Maidens Stone Circle and other ancient sites makes it ideal for a family-friendly historical walk. You can combine a visit to Tregiffian with a short, easy walk to the Merry Maidens, creating a fascinating journey through prehistoric Cornwall that is suitable for most ages.
Yes, Tregiffian Burial Chamber is generally dog-friendly. Dogs are welcome at the site, but owners are asked to keep them on a lead and clean up after them, especially as it's a historical monument and often visited by others. The surrounding footpaths and trails are also suitable for walks with your dog.
Parking is typically available nearby, often along the roadside or in small informal lay-bys close to the monument. As it's a popular historical site, especially during peak season or sunny weekends, parking can fill up quickly. Arriving earlier in the day is often recommended to secure a spot, particularly if you plan to visit other nearby attractions like the Merry Maidens Stone Circle.
Tregiffian Burial Chamber is in a rural setting. For cafes, pubs, and accommodation, you'll need to venture a short distance to nearby villages. Lamorna Cove, St Buryan, and Boleigh offer options for refreshments and places to stay. Penzance, a larger town, is also a short drive away and provides a wider range of amenities.
While the site can be visited year-round, to avoid the largest crowds, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring or autumn) or on weekdays outside of school holidays. Early mornings or late afternoons can also offer a more peaceful experience, allowing for quiet contemplation of this ancient monument.
Tregiffian Burial Chamber is part of a rich ancient landscape. It is less than 200 meters from the famous Merry Maidens Stone Circle. Other nearby sites include The Pipers Standing Stones and the ancient village of Carn Euny, making it an excellent starting point for exploring prehistoric Cornwall.
Look for the replica of the 'portal stone' at the entrance, which features 25 artificial hollows known as 'cupmarks'. The original cup-marked stone is preserved at the Royal Cornwall Museum, but the replica provides a tangible connection to rare prehistoric rock art in Cornwall. Also, observe the structure of the 'entrance grave' itself, with its stone-lined passage leading into the central chamber, roofed with large granite slabs.
Tregiffian Burial Chamber is a rare example of an 'entrance grave' on the Cornish mainland, dating back to the late Neolithic or early Bronze Age (3000-2000 BC). It served as a burial monument for approximately 700 years, with archaeological finds including cremated bone and urns. Its design and proximity to other ancient sites like the Merry Maidens Stone Circle highlight its importance within a broader ancient ceremonial landscape, offering insights into the burial and symbolic practices of early inhabitants.