Ancient Cornwall

A varied and fascinating day includes visits to the Merry Maidens of Boleigh stone circle, subject of a colourful local legend, the nearby Tregiffian Barrow, an early Bronze Age burial chamber; the remnants of Iron Age villages Chysauster and Carn Euny; three beautiful medieval churches – St. Buryan, Sancreed and St. Just; and views of the Egyptian House, with its extraordinary façade, and the 11^th century granite Penlee Cross.

St. Michael’s Mount is one of the UK’s most iconic sights, a place of pilgrimage and religious seclusion, steeped in folklore. We explore its historic castle and 11^th century church, and wander the attractive island streets. After lunch, we proceed to Falmouth by way of the Neolithic chambered tomb Lanyon Quoit, the holed stone Men An-Tol and inscribed stone Men-Scryfa, the Iron Age hillfort Chun Castle and St. Breage’s Church, with its fine medieval wall paintings and Roman milestone.

An excursion to the UK’s most southerly city, Truro, takes in the excellent and extensive collections of the Royal Cornwall Museum and the majestic Gothic Revival Cathedral of the Blessed Virgin Mary which dominates the city skyline. Afternoon tea follows, then a visit to the attractive 14^th century Carn Brea Castle and mid-19^th century monument to the area’s mining heritage.

Set dramatically atop a rocky headland, Pendennis Castle was built by Henry VIII to protect against invasion by France. It continued to fulfil its military role until the Second World War, when it was an observation post and ammunition store. Today, this great artillery fort presents fine views across Falmouth and its estuary. After lunch at the castle, our tour concludes.