Chun Downs
Location
Know before you go
Parking information
There is a small car park at Woon Gumpa (SW 3933 3337)s located on the B3318 one mile south of Pendeen. Chun Castle is a 1500m ramble uphill to the east of the car park.Grazing animals
NoWalking trails
Footpaths and bridleway pass can be wet and muddy underfoot and there are some inclines.
Access
Public footpaths around the reserve. Terrain can be difficult and muddy at points.
Dogs
When to visit
Opening times
Open at all timesBest time to visit
Because of the ancient monuments and views it’s a great place to visit all year round.About the reserve
The reserve is part of the West Penwith Moors, which overall contain 25% of Cornwall's heathland. The Downs are largely scrub covered and would have been created by woodland clearance in the 3rd or 2nd centuries BC. Stunning panoramic views extend across the landscape of historic small fields, Cornish hedges and spectacular heathland to the sea.
A short ramble uphill will lead you to Chûn Castle; an impressive Iron-Age hillfort with extensive landscape and coastal views. Surrounded by two extensive stone walls, the interior of the site contains the remains of several roundhouses. The hillfort has previously been excavated, showing a period of occupation from approximately the 3rd Century BCE to the 1st Century CE. Penwith Landscape Partnership have created a virtual tour that you can view by clicking the button below.