Trethevy QuoitNeolithic Chamber Tomb - Portal Dolmen, Penzance, Cornwall
Map Ref: SX 25968 68859
Location: Off B3254, Near Darite, St Cleer, Cornwall, PL14 5JY
Parking: There are a few 'free' parking spaces opposite the entrance to the field. Trethevy Quoit, is just 50m from the gate that opens into the field.
Admission:No admission fee.
This well-preserved and impressive Neolithic 'dolmen', 'portal tomb' burial chamber is one of the most impressive dolmens to be found in England. Located on on the western slopes of Bodmin Moor, Trevethy Quoit resembles a granite puzzle assembled by giants; The dolmen is known locally as 'The Giant's House'. This Neolithic chamber tomb dating from approximately 3500 -2500 BCE - features five upright slabs supporting a colossal capstone tilted at an improbable angle. One slab pierces the capstone itself, creating a distinctive "keyhole" silhouette against Cornwall's moody skies. Norden, in 1598, desribed it as 'a little howse raysed of mightie stones, standing on a little hill within a fielde', which is just as it appears today. The site is one of two in Cornwall that feature a pair of chambers ( see Lanyon Quoit ).
Trethevy Quoit - showing proximity to entrance gate and adjacent (limited) parking
Local folklore claims the stones mark a burial site for Gormund, a mythical Cornish king, though archaeological evidence suggests communal interment. The structure likely served ceremonial purposes, aligned with lunar events—its eastern portal frames the rising moon during solstices. Nineteenth-century antiquarians recorded coins and pottery shards within its chamber, now lost. Unlike many quoits, Trevethy survived quarrying attempts due to its remote location and perceived supernatural protection; farmers whispered that moving the stones invited crop blight.
Photo Carol Trueman - August 2009
The structure has a 3.7m long capstone, which reaches a height - in its partially fallen state - of 4.6m. The main rectangular chamber is made of six uprights (originally seven) - measuring 2 x 1.5m. At some point in the past the slab located at the rear of the chamber collapsed inwards, causing the giant capstone to tilt downwards at a dramatic angle, and also caausing the partitioning the floor area from the upper chamber space.
Trevethy Quoit was constructed with flanking stones projecting across the front of the chamber, creating a small partially enclosed space before the front closure stone. A small rectangular opening has been cut into the lower right edge of the front closure stone, permitting access to the burial chamber. Some of the other stones have also been carved or perforated. The fallen rear stone has five cupmark-like hollows in its upper surface. The capstone has a natural hole which pierces the stones highest point. The function of this hole is still somewhat of a mystery - with some people holding the view that it had an astronomical role. The left flanking stone at Trethevy has two deep modern drill holes. The stones at Trethevy are surrounded by the remains of a mound, which it is though covered the lower part of the stones - acting as a ramp to aid access to the chamber during burials.
Trevethy Quoit is owned by the Duchy of Cornwall and managed by Historic England, the site operates under "minimal intervention" ("controlled decay") principles. No visitor facilities exist - deliberately preserving its raw, atmospheric isolation. Conservation focuses on erosion control: reinforced pathways divert foot traffic from fragile moorland, while seasonal ( biannually) vegetation clearance prevents root damage. Access is unrestricted year-round, though signage emphasizes respect: no climbing, fires, or removal of artefacts. Community volunteers ("Friends of Bodmin Moor's Monuments") conduct litter patrols
Cornwall Online has 12 properties this area
Tregwormond Grange is a working Arable Farm. The farmhouse has far reaching views over open countryside and is situated within short distances of Rock, Polzeath, Port Isaac and Wadebridge.
Two Ensuite Rooms: 1 King Size Double Room - 1 Twin Bedroom
Sleeps:
4 max.
Location: St Minver
Nearest Beach:
3-10 miles
Tregwormond Grange
01208 869660
07786745450
Facilities available at Tregwormond Grange: Online Availability Parking Available Internet Access En-Suite Facilities Towels Provided Linen Provided
Two delightful self-catering cottages in a barn conversion , each sleeping up to 6. Located in the beautiful Tamar Valley. Absolutely ideal for exploring both Cornwall & Devon. Wheelchair access a priority with wheel in shower facilities and hoists available.
CLICK HERE FOR MORE DETAILS
Sleeps:
10+ max.
Suitable
for Large Groups
Location: Gunnislake
Nearest Beach:
10+ miles
Saturday Changeover
SHORT BREAKS AVAILABLE
Todsworthy Farm Holidays
01822 834744
Facilities available at Todsworthy Farm Holidays: Online Availability Pets Welcome Parking Available Internet Access En-Suite Facilities Towels Provided Linen Provided Cot Provided
Prices from £650 to £1250
A delightful self-catering Holiday Home located on a corner plot with open views over Looe and the Looe River. River View Holiday Bungalow is ideal for families or groups looking for a comfortable and conveniently located base to explore Looe and South East Cornwall and enjoy a relaxing getaway.Located near the coast, with easy to access Looe's sandy beaches, the picturesque fishing harbour, and various coastal paths. It is also close to local amenities and attractions, such as shops, restaurants, pubs, and gives easy acces to the local fishing village of Polperro and Fowey.The Holiday Offers spacious living areas with comfortable furnishings and a balcony with scenic views. Sleeps 6 people in three Bedrooms.
Sleeps:
6 max.
Location: Looe
Nearest Beach:
0-1 mile
Saturday Changeover
Cornwall Holidays - River View Holiday Bungalow
07836 665279
Facilities available at Cornwall Holidays - River View Holiday Bungalow: Internet Access Sea Views
A peaceful holiday retreat of 7.5 acres, with a choice of self- catering accommodation lodges, We are a family run site set in 8 acres of woodland, tucked away in a peaceful little valley not far from Bodmin. No bar or entertainment, centrally located. On the Camel Cycle Trail. David Bellamy Gold Award for conservation.
Sleeps:
6 max.
Location: Bodmin
Nearest Beach:
3-10 miles
Ruthern Valley Holidays
01208 831 395
Limited Disabled Facilities
Facilities available at Ruthern Valley Holidays: Online Availability Parking Available Internet Access
Prices from £410 to £750
A beautifully converted barn on the edge of a working farm. A short walk takes you down to the charming village of Polperro. Sleeps 4 + cot. Pets welcome
Sleeps:
4 max.
Location: Polperro
Nearest Beach:
1-3
miles
Friday Changeover
The Little Barn - Polperro
01503 272083
Facilities available at The Little Barn - Polperro: Credit/Debit Cards Accepted Pets Welcome Parking Available En-Suite Facilities Towels Provided Linen Provided
A great value B & B offering a warm welcome and comfortable accommodation close to Bodmin town centre. With pubs restaurants and many places of interest to visit, all within easy walking distance. Free Wifi - available 24/7. The accommodation is 200 yards from the Camel Trail - walking and cycle track.
Sleeps:
6 max.
Location: Bodmin
Nearest Beach:
10+ miles
SHORT BREAKS AVAILABLE
Scrumptious B&B
01208 75939
Facilities available at Scrumptious B&B: Parking Available Internet Access
Traditional Cornish Farmhouse bed & breakfast with two fishing lakes stocked with Rainbow Trout and Carp. An ideal location for touring, golf, walking, cycling. Open all year, short breaks available
CLICK HERE FOR MORE DETAILS
Location: Callington
Nearest Beach:
10+ miles
SHORT BREAKS AVAILABLE
Polhilsa Farm
01579 370784
01579 370784
Facilities available at Polhilsa Farm: Pets Welcome Parking Available Internet Access
Six stone cottages imaginatively converted from traditional farm buildings, dating from the 1800s, arranged around a delightful, atmospheric courtyard. Garden with BBQ, childrens play area, games room and laundry facilities.
Sleeps:
10+ max.
Suitable
for Large Groups
Location: Bodmin
Nearest Beach:
10+ miles
SHORT BREAKS AVAILABLE
Coldharbour Farm
01208 74201
Facilities available at Coldharbour Farm: Online Availability Credit/Debit Cards Accepted Pets Welcome Parking Available Internet Access
Rescorla Farm House is nestled in the peace of the countryside and commands stunning views- With ample on site parking Rescorla Farm is ideally located within walking distance of the Eden Project and short drives to local wineries; Fowey; The Lost Gardens of Heligan; Lanhydrock House and gardens; Bodmin Jail Museum and steam railway; Wheal Martyn China Clay Heritage Centre; Screech Owl Sanctuary; The Camel Trail (bike hire available); The Pine Lodge Gardens and Charlestown Shipwreck Heritage Centre.
Sleeps:
6 max.
Location: St Austell
Nearest Beach:
3-10 miles
Rescorla Farmhouse
01726 851669
07598 791509
Facilities available at Rescorla Farmhouse: Online Availability Parking Available Internet Access En-Suite Facilities Towels Provided Linen Provided
Six en-suite luxury bedrooms with sea and rural views, Set in an exceptional peaceful location Bucklawren Bed and Breakfast has a large spacious lounge to relax, and all bedrooms are equipped with tea and coffee facilities, fridges, TV’s and hairdryers. All you need for a relaxing stay. Sleeps 12 +
CLICK HERE FOR MORE DETAILS
Sleeps:
10+ max.
Location: Looe
Nearest Beach:
0-1 mile
SHORT BREAKS AVAILABLE
Bucklawren Farm B&B
01503 240738
Limited Disabled Facilities
Facilities available at Bucklawren Farm B&B: Online Availability Credit/Debit Cards Accepted Parking Available Internet Access Sea Views En-Suite Facilities Towels Provided Linen Provided
The Countryman Hotel - Something for everyone 9 Bedrooms - Ensuite rooms available ,situated just a two minute walk from the centre of the historic market town of Camelford. There are 9 tastefully furnished and decorated bedrooms, all with H/C, colour TV and tea/coffee making facilities. En-suite facilities are available, as well as single and family rooms.
Sleeps:
10+ max.
Suitable
for Large Groups
Location: Camelford
Nearest Beach:
3-10 miles
SHORT BREAKS AVAILABLE
The Countryman Hotel
01840 212250
Facilities available at The Countryman Hotel: Online Availability Parking Available Internet Access En-Suite Facilities Towels Provided Linen Provided Bar Restaurant
Welcome to Bridge Bike Hire, the original Camel Trails Bike Hire Depot. Now recognised as one of the countrys top bike hire facilities complementing the popular and very scenic Camel Trail.
Location: Wadebridge
Nearest Beach:
Bridge Bike Hire
01208 813050
Facilities available at Bridge Bike Hire: Parking Available