Carn Brea multi-phase site - Mesolithic to the Post-Medieval period - English Heritage - Penzance, Cornwall
Carn Brea
Carn Brea, Redruth, Cornwall
Map Ref: SW SW 685407
Location: 11 miles north-west of Falmouth on the A39-A393. South West of Redruth.
How to get there: Carn Brea is to the South West of Redruth. Follow the footpath from Churchtown up the hill.
Carn Brea - Cornwall's Ancient Hilltop Sentinel
This hill top location at Carn Brea in Cornwall has been in occupation from the earliest of times. Standing prominently above the Cornish towns of Redruth and Camborne, Carn Brea is not merely a distinctive granite outcrop crowned by its medieval castle folly and modern monument. It is a landscape steeped in human history, with archaeological evidence revealing continuous occupation and significance spanning millennia. On the Carn Brea hill top you will find examples of a Hillfort Castle, a 19th century Monument and a mixture of Neolithic, Iron Age, Medieval and Modern buildings. Carn Brea has wonderful views of mining remains to the south, Camborne - Redruth and the coast to the north.
The castle is the most visible structure on the hill top and was probably a hunting lodge. This Medieval Period (c. 410 - 1485 AD) structure is perched precariously on the eastern outcrop. Primarily built in the late 14th century (c. 1379-1380) by the Basset family as a hunting lodge/manor house rather than a true fortress, it incorporates natural rock formations into its structure. It served as an administrative centre for the Basset's extensive local estates. Traces of medieval field systems (strip lynchets) are visible on the southern slopes, indicating agricultural use.
During the Post-Medieval Period (1485 - c. 1800) the castle became less prominent in its role in the local affairs and fell into disuse as a residence after the Tudor period but remained a landmark. The hill continued to be used for grazing and quarrying. Small-scale tin streaming likely occurred in the valleys below.
Located in the area between the monument and the castle are the remains of a massive Neolithic hillfort; covering some 46 acres. The Neolithic Period (c. 4000 - 2500 BC) was a period of Fortified Settlement and Transformation and became Carn Brea's most dramatic prehistoric phase. Around 3700 BC, the hilltop was transformed into a major fortified settlement – one of the earliest and most significant in Britain. Archaeological excavations centered in and around the eastern enclosure by Roger Mercer between 1970 to 1973, revealed:
- Massive Stone Ramparts: A complex series of substantial stone-faced rubble ramparts, ditches, and palisades encircled the entire central plateau area (approximately 12 acres). These formidable defenses suggest organized communal effort and potential conflict or threat.
- Internal Structures: Within the defenses, traces of timber-framed roundhouses were found, indicating a substantial permanent or semi-permanent population.
- Pottery: Distinctive decorated pottery styles (primarily Grimston-Lyles Hill ware and Hembury ware) link the inhabitants to wider Neolithic cultural networks across southern Britain.
- Flint Tools: An enormous quantity of flint artifacts (over 12,000 pieces), including arrowheads, scrapers, and axes, points to intense activity. Significantly, many arrowheads were found broken or embedded in the ramparts, suggesting violent attacks on the settlement.
- Evidence of Trade: Finds of Cornish greenstone (used for polished axes) and pottery from distant sources indicate trade connections.
- Agriculture: Pollen analysis shows woodland clearance around the hill, strongly suggesting early farming practices (cultivation and animal husbandry) were taking place in the vicinity.
The settlement appears to have been violently destroyed by fire around 2900 BC, marking the end of its primary Neolithic occupation. Carn Brea remained a significant ritual and symbolic landscape, however.
The earliest evidence of confirmed human activity on Carn Brea dates back to Mesolithic Period (c. 8000 - 4000 BC). Evidence comes in the form of flint scatters – discarded tools like microliths (tiny flint blades), scrapers, and cores – found across the hill's slopes and plateau. These finds indicate that small, highly mobile groups of hunter-gatherers were exploiting the hill's vantage point and surrounding resources. They likely established temporary camps, using the elevated position to spot game herds like deer and wild cattle moving through the landscape below and exploiting the coastal and moorland ecosystems. The quartz and granite geology provided raw material for their essential toolkit.
Escavations at Carn Brea have not revealed any major activity during The Bronze Age (c. 2500 - 800 BC). No major settlement evidence exists from this period, but, cairns and burial mounds were constructed on the hill's lower slopes, signifying its continued ritual importance. Finds include cremation urns.
There is evidence to show that during the Iron Age (c. 800 BC - 43 AD), the site at Carn Brea saw an increase in activity. The Neolithic ramparts of the hill fort were partly remodelled and a collection of stone round houses were built within them. Evidence is sparse, but the hill likely remained a focal point in the landscape, potentially used for seasonal grazing or minor settlement. The defensive qualities of the natural outcrops may have been utilized informally.
The 19th Century Industrial Boom profoundly reshaped Carn Brea's surroundings and added a new iconic feature - The Basset Monument. Carn Brea area became the epicentre of Cornwall's global mining dominance. Intensive tin and copper mining erupted all around its base. Towns like Redruth and Camborne exploded in size. Mine engine houses, waste tips (spoil heaps), and industrial infrastructure dominated the landscape. Quarrying on Carn Brea itself intensified, scarring its slopes to provide stone for buildings and roads.
The imposing Basset Monument was erected in 1836 on the highest western summit. Standing 90 feet tall and built from granite ashlar, it takes the form of a Celtic cross. It commemorates Francis Basset, Baron de Dunstanville (1757–1835), a prominent landowner, mine investor, and philanthropist credited with improving conditions for local miners during a period of hardship. Designed by architect J. P. St. Aubyn, it became, and remains, Carn Brea's most recognizable landmark, visible for miles across the mining district.
Accommodation near Carn Brea Hill Top
Cornwall Online has 7 properties this area
Prices from £50
En-suite Bed and Breakfast Rooms Available - Prices from £50 per person per night.
updated 06 jul 26 E&OE
Bed and Breakfast at the Mad Hatter - all our rooms have beautiful views overlooking the Hayle Estuary Wildlife Reserve. Ideal location for the avid birdwatchers and ramblers. Close by to Hayle beach - 3 miles of golden sands. ROOMS: One Double/Twin En-Suite Room, | Family Room, Two Double Rooms and One Twin RoomThe Madhatter is a great stop-off point for catching the Scillonian ferry from penzance to the Isles of Scilly.
CLICK HERE FOR MORE DETAILS
Sleeps:
7 max.
Location: Hayle
Nearest Beach:
0-1 mile
Mad Hatter Bed and Breakfast & Tea Rooms
01736 754241
Facilities available at Mad Hatter Bed and Breakfast & Tea Rooms: Credit/Debit Cards Accepted Pets Welcome Parking Available Internet Access Sea Views En-Suite Facilities
Two bedroom well apointed Holiday chalets situated on the Perran Sands Haven site - in a quiet location. Within easy walking distance to all amenities including on site swimming pool and facilities and night clubs. Just 10 mins walk to beach!
CLICK HERE FOR MORE DETAILS
Sleeps:
5 max.
Location: Perranporth
Nearest Beach:
0-1 mile
Saturday Changeover
Perran Sands Holidays
07775 572 339
Facilities available at Perran Sands Holidays: Online Availability Parking Available Linen Provided Swimming Pool Bar Restaurant
Prices from £75 to £130
Choice of B&B stays and self-catering Lodges in 4 Independent en-suite Lodges Suitable for Single, Double, Twin & Family Occupancy
Family Lodge Sleeps up to 4 - 2 Lodges with both king-size bed & single bed 1 Lodge with king-size bed
CLICK HERE FOR MORE DETAILS
Sleeps:
10+ max.
Suitable
for Large Groups
Location: Helston
Nearest Beach:
1-3
miles
SHORT BREAKS AVAILABLE
Crown House & Lodges
01326 565538
Limited Disabled Facilities
Facilities available at Crown House & Lodges: Credit/Debit Cards Accepted Pets Welcome Parking Available Internet Access En-Suite Facilities Towels Provided Linen Provided
A short, level walk to the stunning beach, Piskey Cottage is a charming and traditional Cornish tin miners cottage that sleeps 4-6 people and provides the perfect location for your self catering holiday in Cornwall. Private off road parking
CLICK HERE FOR MORE DETAILS
Sleeps:
6 max.
Location: Portreath
Nearest Beach:
0-1 mile
Saturday Changeover
SHORT BREAKS AVAILABLE
Piskey Cottage
0771 202 0922
Facilities available at Piskey Cottage: Online Availability Pets Welcome Parking Available Linen Provided
Trewince, a family run business for over 30 years and with a personal touch is an oasis of beauty and calm within its acres of park and woodland. Near to the villages of Portscatho, Gerrans and St Mawes. Close to tranquil beaches, secluded coves and beautiful countryside with spectacular views where you really can get away from the stresses of every day life.
CLICK HERE FOR MORE DETAILS
Sleeps:
6 max.
Suitable
for Large Groups
Location: Portscatho
Nearest Beach:
0-1 mile
Saturday Changeover
Friday Changeover
Monday Changeover
SHORT BREAKS AVAILABLE
Trewince Holiday Lodges
01872 580289
Limited Disabled Facilities
Facilities available at Trewince Holiday Lodges: Credit/Debit Cards Accepted Pets Welcome Parking Available Internet Access Sea Views En-Suite Facilities Towels Provided Linen Provided Swimming Pool
Prices from £22 to £1515
Welcome to our Green Tourism Gold Award park. Voted Best Holiday and Caravan Site in UK 2023, and rated 4 Pennant Gold AA. Our multi award winning Holiday Park in Cornwall offers bungalows, holiday caravans, wigwam glamping cabins and camping/ touring pitches. Nestled in a beautiful wooded valley, set in the heart of the UNESCIO World Heritage site, approximately half way between St Ives and St Agnes.
EV charging Points
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Sleeps:
6 max.
Suitable
for Large Groups
Location: Nr Portreath
Nearest Beach:
1-3
miles
SHORT BREAKS AVAILABLE
Tehidy Holiday Park
01209 216489
Limited Disabled Facilities
Facilities available at Tehidy Holiday Park: Parking Available EV Charging Available Internet Access
Two delightful self-catering holiday cottages, each sleeping 4/5. Situated in the perfect location for exploring Cornwalls countryside, gardens, coasts, sailing waters and cycle trails. Beautiful rural setting on a Cornish working farm. Large enclosed garden, private parking
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Sleeps:
4 max.
Location: Truro
Nearest Beach:
3-10 miles
SHORT BREAKS AVAILABLE
Gadles Farm Cottages
01872 863214
01872 863214
Facilities available at Gadles Farm Cottages: Online Availability Parking Available Internet Access