Places to visit in the Isle of Wight

Black Barrow near Brighstone

Large round barrow situated in area of ancient site complex, in valley below Mottistone Down barrows and about 1 KM east of Longstone site. Damaged by tree growth, although fairly clear of vegetation currently. Lone barrow, substantial, height around 3-4 metres from lowest point. No official public access, footpath through Grammer's Common passes close to south. Visible from Strawberry Lane to west. Tucked underneath the impressive ridge of Mottistone Down.

Map Ref: SZ415842

Mottistone Down near Brook

Series of around five or six round barrows in spectacular setting atop the ridge of Mottistone Down, alongside ancient track way of Tennyson Trail. Two barrows lower to the east, one mostly ruined. Occasionally vandalised by the motorised. Impressive, large barrows, up to about 2-3 metres high. Views south to Longstone site & English Channel beyond, north to The Solent. Five Barrows site visible to west, Black Barrow site in valley below. Access from National Trust car park at SZ420845.

Map Ref: SZ406847

Pay Down near Brook

Collection of Round Barrows grouped around the ancient ridgeway known now as the Tennyson Way that links Freshwater and Carisbrooke.
Situated on a down slope between Mottistone Down and Brook Down. Three obvious barrows to the north of the track, one more small but locatable to the south, plus another under grown to the east at SZ403851. Forms part of a complex with Five Barrows which looms above it to the west and the Barrow Cemetery at Harboro/Mottistone Down to the east. Easily accessible from road B3399.

Map Ref: SZ398851

Nunwell Down near Morton

This barrow has public access as it is located close to the footpath that crosses the field it is in. Handy parking can be found on Brading Down with a picnic area and a viewpoint. The barrow itself is still in reasonably good condition but is being attacked by large burrowing animals. The monument is strategically located on the 'spine' of Brading/Nunwell Down and would have had superb views north to the mainland and south towards Shanklin.

Map Ref: SZ59698698

Gallibury Hump near Brighstone

Large Round Barrow on Brighstone Down, Isle of Wight. Prominently positioned at the eastern end of Brighstone Forest near the ancient ridgeway now called the Tennnyson Trail. About 3 metres high, possibly the biggest of the many surviving barrows on the Island. Two nearby barrow sites now bereft of obvious evidence for their existence. A strategic site with fantastic views of the Solent to the north, and the southern downs in the opposite direction. Nearest parking about 2.5 kilometres at Brighstone Down car park (SZ 419845).

Map Ref: SZ441854

The Longstone near Mottistone

Standing on National Trust land, it is accessible (although a bit of a hike), through the woods and Downland surrounding it. Approach up the long gentle uphill slope of the lightly part-wooded path from the delightfully named Strawberry Lane.

Map Ref: SZ404839