If you’re yearning for an enchanting trip back in time, nestled in the heart of Cornwall, lies a precious gem of British history – Carn Euny Ancient Village. It’s not just a village, but a time capsule brimming with captivating tales from a bygone era.
Nestled near Sancreed, on the Land’s End Peninsula in the far west of Cornwall, the simplest way to get there would be by van or car. From Penzance, it’s merely a 15-minute ride north-west via B3315 and B3283. Ample parking is available nearby, making it quite the hassle-free journey.
The village’s origins can be traced back to the Iron Age, with people living there from around 500BC until the end of the Roman era. Its most intriguing feature is its well-preserved ‘fogou’, a mysterious underground passage whose purpose still remains largely undeciphered. The stone-walled passage with its corbelled roof holds a sense of awe-inspiring wonder as you meander through, giving you a touch of the mystic unknown.
Beyond the fogou, there are remains of stone houses, giving you an intimate peek into ancient lifestyles. The huts with their central hearths and stone furniture evoke a palpable sense of an era that’s otherwise lost in the mists of time.
And then there’s the captivating landscape of the Cornish countryside to take in. A popular walk is the circular route from the car park, leading through fields with heart-stirring views over the sea, towards the Isles of Scilly. Not too strenuous, it’s an ideal way to bask in the region’s natural beauty, bracing the brisk Cornish air. Just remember to pack your wellies if you’re visiting in the wetter months!
Within a short drive of Carn Euny, you’ll find other alluring attractions. The nearby Sancreed Holy Well is an enchanting spot nestled within a small stone building, its tranquil waters believed to have healing properties. You can also visit Boscawen-un stone circle, an intriguing Bronze Age monument that adds to the region’s rich historical tapestry.
Now, you might wonder why Carn Euny is such an unusual name. It’s derived from the Cornish “Karn Uni”, meaning “Barrow of the Lamb”. And although it’s difficult to imagine today, in its heyday, the village was likely to have been a buzzing hub, with families farming the surrounding land, trading goods, and celebrating rituals.
The atmosphere at Carn Euny is one of tranquillity and timelessness, filled with a sense of history that’s tangible and intriguing. Bring along a picnic, and find a comfortable spot amidst the ancient stones to take a pause from modern life, soak in the views, and let your imagination wander to the lives of those who walked here centuries ago.
A visit to Carn Euny isn’t just a history lesson, but an immersive journey into the past, that’ll leave you with a sense of wonder and an appreciation for those who have gone before us. Whether you’re an ardent historian, an adventurer seeking offbeat experiences, or a photography enthusiast looking to capture unique landscapes, Carn Euny is sure to enchant and inspire.
So, why not pop down for a visit? Discover the magic of this ancient village and let the echoes of the past regale you with stories of a time long gone. As you wander through the remnants of this once thriving settlement, don’t forget to take a moment to appreciate the sheer perseverance and resourcefulness of our ancestors, and how their legacy has endured through the centuries.
Getting there
Sancreed, Penzance, Cornwall, TR20 8RB
https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/carn-euny-ancient-village/
