King Barrow

Heritage Site in Dorset

England

King Barrow

Sandy path near Studland beach A sandy path passing beach huts overlooking Studland beach, photographed on a dull and murky day in August 2021. This area is owned and managed by the National Trust. — Sandy path near Studland beach Credit: Malc McDonald

King Barrow, located in Dorset, England, is a significant heritage site that holds historical and archaeological importance. Dating back to the Neolithic period, King Barrow is a burial mound that is believed to have been constructed around 4000 BCE. The site is situated in the picturesque countryside, surrounded by rolling hills and lush greenery.

The barrow is an impressive earthen mound, standing at approximately 4 meters in height and 50 meters in diameter. It is constructed using chalk and earth, which has weathered over the centuries, giving it a distinctive appearance. The shape of the mound is circular, with a flat top and gently sloping sides.

Within the mound, numerous archaeological excavations have revealed the presence of a burial chamber, which was once used for communal burials. The remains of several individuals, along with various grave goods, such as pottery, flint tools, and jewelry, have been discovered within the chamber. These findings provide valuable insights into the burial practices and cultural traditions of the Neolithic people who inhabited the area.

King Barrow is now protected as a Scheduled Monument, ensuring its preservation for future generations. The site attracts visitors from all over who are interested in exploring the rich history and heritage of the region. Interpretive panels and information boards are placed around the site, providing visitors with detailed information about the barrow's significance and history.

In summary, King Barrow in Dorset is a Neolithic burial mound that offers a glimpse into the ancient past. With its impressive size and archaeological finds, it stands as a testament to the cultural and historical significance of the region.

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King Barrow Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 50.633/-1.937 or Grid Reference SZ0481. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Sandy path near Studland beach

A sandy path passing beach huts overlooking Studland beach, photographed on a dull and murky day in August 2021. This area is owned and managed by the National Trust.

Malc McDonald

Fort Henry, Studland, near Swanage

Fort Henry is an observation bunker overlooking Poole Bay. It was built during the Second World War. Although it is sometimes claimed it was built to assist in defending Britain's coastline against enemy invasion, that is not so. The bunker was built to observe practice landings in preparation for D-Day. This image was taken on a dull and murky day in August 2021, with poor visibility.

Malc McDonald

South West Coast Path at Studland

This path in the village of Studland forms part of the South West Coast Path.

Malc McDonald

Bankes Arms, Studland

The Bankes Arms pub, in the village of Studland. The pub is believed to date from the 16th Century. The South West Coast Path follows the lane past the pub.

Malc McDonald

Manor Road, Studland

Manor Road is a lane in the village of Studland, in Dorset. It is on the route of the South West Coast Path. The building to the left of the image is a public toilet.

Malc McDonald

South West Coast Path near Studland

The South West Coast Path near the village of Studland, in Dorset. A marker stone stands to the right of the path.

Malc McDonald

South West Coast Path near Studland

A view of the South West Coast Path, with Studland Bay visible to the right.

Malc McDonald

Old Harry Rocks, near Swanage

Old Harry Rocks are sea stacks off Handfast Point (The Foreland), north of Swanage. They are formed of chalk and are classic features of coastal erosion. The rocks are under constant attack from the sea and Harry has already lost a "wife".

Malc McDonald

Old Harry Rocks, near Swanage

A National Trust sign at Old Harry Rocks, indicating that the National Trust owns and manages the land here.

Malc McDonald

Old Harry Rocks, near Swanage

A view of Old Harry Rocks and Poole Bay, taken on a dull and cloudy day in August 2021.

Malc McDonald

Cliffs and stacks at The Foreland, near Swanage

Cliffs and stacks on the Jurassic coastline close to Old Harry Rocks.

Malc McDonald

South West Coast Path at The Foreland, near Swanage

A view of the South West Coast Path as it approaches Old Harry Rocks, on the Jurassic coastline near Swanage.

Malc McDonald

South West Coast Path at The Foreland, near Swanage

A view of the South West Coast Path on The Foreland, on the Isle of Purbeck.

Malc McDonald

South West Coast Path near Swanage

The South West Coast Path heading towards Old Harry Rocks, on the Isle of Purbeck. Visible in this image are chalk cliffs and a sea stack, one of several here. In the background is Poole Bay, looking towards Bournemouth.

Malc McDonald

South West Coast Path near Swanage

The South West Coast Path, near Ballard Point on the Isle of Purbeck. Another path branches off through the gate and across the field.

Malc McDonald

South West Coast Path near Swanage

A view of the South West Coast Path near Ballard Point, looking towards Old Harry Rocks and Poole Bay. Visible to the right of the chalk cliffs are a couple of sea stacks.

Malc McDonald