
Barclodiad y Gawres
A 5,000-year-old Neolithic burial chamber on Anglesey, famed for its intricate rock art and dramatic coastal setting.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Rare chance for interior access

Barclodiad y Gawres
Best Time
Rare chance for interior access

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 5,000-year-old Neolithic burial chamber on Anglesey, famed for its intricate rock art and dramatic coastal setting.
"Ancient carvings and stunning sea views make this a must-see historical gem on Anglesey."

👟 Sturdy Footwear Essential
The coastal path is uneven and can be slippery. Wear good walking shoes to avoid slips.
📅 Check Cadw for Access
The chamber is usually locked. Look for special event days like Open Doors Wales for a chance inside.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Neolithic Rock Art
Inside the burial chamber
Marvel at ancient carvings of spirals, zig-zags, and lozenges on the chamber stones.

Cruciform Passage Grave
The burial chamber itself
Explore the unique cruciform (cross-shaped) passage grave, a significant example of Neolithic architecture.

Coastal Views
Exterior of the burial mound
Enjoy stunning views over Porth Trecastell and the Irish Sea from this dramatic clifftop location.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Accessing the Burial Chamber
Respecting the Site
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Sturdy Footwear Essential
The coastal path is uneven and can be slippery. Wear good walking shoes to avoid slips.
📅 Check Cadw for Access
The chamber is usually locked. Look for special event days like Open Doors Wales for a chance inside.
🗑️ Leave No Trace
Help preserve this ancient site by taking all your litter with you.
📸 Capture the Carvings
Bring your camera to photograph the intricate Neolithic rock art inside the chamber.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Sturdy Footwear Essential
The coastal path is uneven and can be slippery. Wear good walking shoes to avoid slips.
📅 Check Cadw for Access
The chamber is usually locked. Look for special event days like Open Doors Wales for a chance inside.
🗑️ Leave No Trace
Help preserve this ancient site by taking all your litter with you.
📸 Capture the Carvings
Bring your camera to photograph the intricate Neolithic rock art inside the chamber.
🚶♀️ Coastal Path Walk
Combine your visit with a walk along the scenic Wales Coast Path for beautiful sea views.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are captivated by the ancient rock art and the dramatic coastal setting of Barclodiad y Gawres. While access to the interior burial chamber is often restricted, the historical significance and the beauty of the location are consistently praised. Some visitors express disappointment about litter and the site's condition, urging for greater respect for this unique heritage site.
"Wednesday, 23rd July 2025
Barclodiad y Gawres is a Neolithic burial chamber between Rhosneigr and Aberffraw on the south-western coast of the island of Anglesey in North Wales. It is an example of a cruciform passage grave, a notable feature being its decorated stones. Similar graves and marks exist across the Irish Sea in the Boyne Valley.
Full excavations were performed in 1952–53, after which the chamber was re-roofed with concrete and covered with turf to resemble the original structure. During the excavations two cremated young male burials were found within the south-western side-chamber. The central area of the main chamber contained the remains of a fire on which had been poured a stew which had been made with wrasse, eel, frog, toad, grass snake, mouse, shrew and hare, then covered with limpet shells and pebbles.
During the excavations five stones with carvings—spirals, zig-zags, lozenges and chevrons—were discovered. A sixth stone with carvings was discovered in 2001.
There's a small lay-by at the start of the path for about ten cars.
Not suitable for wheelchairs due to the narrow, uneven coastal path and the grassed hilly area. Please be careful when desending back down the hill as I, unfortunately, slipped on the short grass and badly twisted my ankle 😫 and had to end my trip to Anglesey and went home 😮💨 However, I do recommend a visit to this place."
Robert xXxX
"Took a night stroll from Traeth Llydan at 9pm. Nice and quiet, few fishermen at the end. Stunning views. Such a shame visitors are destroying this heavenly place with litter, dog poo hnd think it's ok to block streams to make a bridge when there's a bridge 5m away. If a bin is full, take your rubbish with you. Other than that absolutely my favourite place."
Emma Mc
"The site is interesting, although there's a metal gate at the entrance due to ongoing restoration work. It's still worth a visit."
Lisa P
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Barclodiad y Gawres is located on the south-western coast of Anglesey. There's a small lay-by for parking that fits about ten cars, marking the start of the path to the site. The path is described as narrow and uneven, so be prepared for a short walk.
Unfortunately, Barclodiad y Gawres is not suitable for wheelchairs due to the narrow, uneven coastal path and the grassy, hilly terrain leading to the chamber.
Many visitors enjoy walking along the cliff path, which offers stunning sea views, rather than just sticking to the beach. This approach allows you to appreciate the dramatic landscape where the burial chamber is situated.
The burial chamber itself is usually locked to protect the ancient carvings. However, the exterior mound and surrounding area are accessible, and special access to the interior may be available during events like Cadw's Open Doors Wales.
There is a small lay-by at the start of the path that can accommodate approximately ten cars. It's advisable to arrive early, especially during peak times, to secure a parking spot.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, no tickets are required to visit the exterior of Barclodiad y Gawres. However, the interior burial chamber is typically locked for preservation. Keep an eye on Cadw's events calendar for any special open days or tours that might grant access.
The site itself is accessible, but the entrance to the burial chamber is usually secured with a metal gate. Special access is often part of events like the 'Drysau Agored' (Open Doors) initiative in Wales.
Visiting the exterior of Barclodiad y Gawres is free. If there are special guided tours or events that allow entry into the chamber, these might have a fee, but often they are free as part of heritage initiatives.
Access to the interior of Barclodiad y Gawres is usually restricted to protect the delicate Neolithic carvings. However, Cadw sometimes opens it for special events, and there are lights inside to illuminate the carvings when it's locked.
As the chamber is typically locked, there are no set opening hours for the interior. The surrounding area and mound are accessible during daylight hours. Check Cadw's schedule for any specific event timings.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Barclodiad y Gawres is renowned for its well-preserved Neolithic rock art carvings, including spirals and zig-zags, found on the stones within the cruciform passage grave. It's a significant archaeological site dating back about 5,000 years.
Inside, you'll find a cruciform passage grave with stones featuring intricate carvings. Although the mound is reconstructed, the ancient rock art remains a highlight, offering a glimpse into Neolithic artistry.
The site is situated along the beautiful Wales Coast Path, offering opportunities for scenic walks. Nearby beaches like Porth Trecastell are also great for exploring.
This site is a late Neolithic burial chamber, approximately 5,000 years old. Excavations in the 1950s revealed cremated burials and evidence of a unique stew made from various local ingredients.
The carvings include spirals, zig-zags, lozenges, and chevrons. These intricate designs are a key feature that draws visitors interested in ancient art and history.
📸 📸 Photography
The most striking photos are of the ancient rock art carvings inside the chamber. The dramatic coastal views from the mound also make for stunning landscape shots.
Yes, photography is generally permitted inside the chamber, especially if you gain access during special events. The lighting inside can be dim, so a good camera or phone with low-light capabilities is helpful.
While generally allowed, always be respectful of the site and other visitors. Avoid using flash photography directly on the ancient carvings if it's deemed harmful.
Golden hour, during sunrise or sunset, can offer beautiful light for both the coastal scenery and potentially for capturing details of the carvings if access is possible.
A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the interior of the chamber and the expansive coastal views. A tripod might be helpful for low-light photography inside, but check if it's permitted.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during a special open day if available, as seeing the inside can be a highlight. The dramatic coastal views provide a beautiful backdrop for a family walk along the Wales Coast Path, making the trip more than just a historical visit. Emphasize the 'mystery' of the ancient carvings to keep them engaged, and turn it into a treasure hunt for imagination.
🚶♀️ History Buffs & Archaeology Enthusiasts
Excavations in the 1950s revealed fascinating details about the site's use, including cremated remains and evidence of a unique, diverse stew. While direct access to the chamber is often restricted, understanding its context within the broader landscape of Neolithic Britain and Ireland, and its connection to similar sites across the Irish Sea, is key. Look out for special open days organized by Cadw to get a closer look at this significant archaeological monument.
🚶♂️ Hikers & Nature Lovers
Even if the burial chamber is locked, the surrounding landscape is the main draw for many. Enjoy the fresh sea air, listen to the waves, and appreciate the rugged coastline. It's an ideal spot for a contemplative walk, photography, or simply soaking in the natural splendor of Anglesey.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Neolithic Rock Art
These carvings are not unique to Barclodiad y Gawres; similar styles can be found in other Neolithic sites across Britain and Ireland, suggesting a shared cultural or artistic tradition. The preservation of these designs is exceptional, allowing modern visitors to appreciate the skill and artistry of Neolithic peoples. Seeing these ancient markings firsthand is a powerful experience, evoking a sense of wonder about the lives and beliefs of those who lived millennia ago.
While the chamber is often locked for preservation, Cadw sometimes opens it for special events, providing a rare opportunity to see these carvings up close. Even when locked, lights are often in place to illuminate the artwork, allowing visitors to appreciate its detail from the entrance. The presence of this art underscores the importance of Barclodiad y Gawres as a significant ceremonial or burial site in prehistoric times.
Visiting Barclodiad y Gawres: Practicalities and Preservation
The journey to the site involves navigating an uneven and sometimes steep coastal path. This means sturdy footwear is essential, and the site is unfortunately not accessible for wheelchairs. Visitors have noted issues with litter and dog waste, highlighting the importance of responsible tourism. It's crucial for everyone to 'leave no trace' and take all rubbish with them to help preserve this ancient monument for future generations.
Despite the access limitations, the surrounding landscape offers breathtaking coastal views, making the walk worthwhile. The site's dramatic clifftop location adds to its mystique and historical significance. By being prepared and respectful, visitors can have a meaningful experience connecting with Wales's ancient past.






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