SX0057 : View North from Hensbarrow Downs

Hensbarrow Downs

365m Elevation
250m Prominence
England Country
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SX0057 : View North from Hensbarrow Downs

Gary Rogers Photo source

Explore routes near Hensbarrow Downs

Walks starting near this hill. Open a route to check its map, distance and full itinerary.

Ropehaven Cliffs and Black Head

3.4 km ~1h 30m Moderate

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Padstow to Trevone coastal circular

12.3 km ~3h 30m Moderate

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Widemouth Bay to Bude Coastal and Canal

10.8 km ~3h Moderate

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Lizard to Kyanace Cove Out and Back

4.7 km ~2h Moderate

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Route planning notes

These notes describe possible approaches. Check a route's map and access information when planning your walk.

Hensbarrow Downs Circular Walk

A leisurely circular route starting from the village of Carwynnen that will take you through scenic landscapes and historical remnants.

5.5 km ~2 hours Easy

Access from the A391

An accessible route directly from the roadside with minimal ascent, perfect for a quick jaunt or family outing.

1.5 km ~0.5 hours Easy
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Marilyn 300-399m hill

Elevation

365m

1,196 ft

Prominence

250m

Coordinates

50.3831, -4.8128

SX001574

OS Map

200

Explorer: 106 107

At the Summit

The summit boasts a large granite outcrop, often mistaken for a seat at the pub if viewed from a distance. There are remnants of ancient field systems nearby and a breathtaking view over the surrounding rolling hills.

Terrain & Geology

Grassy with rocky outcrops some areas may be boggy after heavy rains.

Hensbarrow Downs is primarily composed of granite, a robust and ancient rock type formed during the Variscan orogeny. The area is dotted with fascinating geological features, including mine workings from the region's notable tin and copper mining history.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, you can gaze upon the distant coast, the mighty moors, and possibly even spot St. Austell Bay on a clear day.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Hensbarrow' derives from the Cornish 'Hens' meaning 'head' or 'fore', and 'barrow' which refers to a tumulus or mound, possibly indicating ancient burial sites.

Historical Significance

The area has a rich mining heritage, particularly for tin and copper. Hensbarrow Downs is also known for its prehistoric sites and ancient field systems.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

Parking is available at Carwynnen, where you’ll find a small layby suitable for a couple of cars.

Public Transport

Buses run from St. Austell to nearby villages. Check local timetables for service availability.

Nearby Facilities

There are no facilities directly on Hensbarrow Downs, but St. Austell offers a range of cafes, shops, and public toilets.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Watch out for hidden rabbit holes and the occasional bog; these can become ankle traps if you're not paying attention!

General Safety Tips

  • Check weather conditions before setting out
  • Carry appropriate clothing and equipment
  • Let someone know your planned route
  • Take a map, compass, and GPS device
  • Carry emergency supplies: food, water, first aid kit, torch

Hills

Some common questions about the hills answered

Are there group walks up Hensbarrow Downs?

Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Hensbarrow Downs through the maps

Are there other walkers around Hensbarrow Downs?

Activity varies by location and time, but Walkmates lets you see whether others have shared walks or shown interest in this area. Find other people through the walking friends search walking friends for Hensbarrow Downs search or of course create your own walk for Hensbarrow Downs

Can I organise a walk to Hensbarrow Downs?

Yes. If there aren’t any walks listed already, you can create a walk and make it available for others to join.

If you're signed up to Walkmates, you can create a walk to Hensbarrow Downs.

How do I find a walk up this hill?

There are often multiple ways to walk this hill, depending on experience and route preference. Walkmates helps you explore walks and routes that others have shared.

Can I suggest a new route up Hensbarrow Downs?

Yes. You can suggest or create routes to share with others. Walkmates focuses on the social side of walking, so routes are used to help people organise walks and explore areas together, rather than as detailed navigation tools or route libraries.

Other uses really appreciate knowledgeable walkers sharing their routes. Share your favourite route to Hensbarrow Downs here

The is an error or something incorrect about this hill. How do I let you know?

We always strive to keep the information on Walkmates as accurate as possible. If you find an error, please let us know through the contact form and we'll aim to correct it as quickly as possible

Location

View the hill's mapped position and surrounding paths.

Grid reference: SX001574

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