Point of Ayr Lighthouse

 

The Point of Ayr Lighthouse, also known as the Talacre Lighthouse, 

has a rich and varied history on the north coast of Wales.

Visit Date: April 2024

The Point of Ayr Lighthouse

The lighthouse was constructed in 1776, serving an essential role in maritime navigation.

Its construction was authorized by the Chester Lighthouse Act of 1776, legislation aimed at improving safety for vessels entering and leaving the River Dee.

A trust comprising the Mayor, Recorder, and Aldermen of Chester oversaw the construction process. This trust was responsible for ensuring the lighthouse met the necessary specifications for both functionality and aesthetic appeal.

The total cost of building the lighthouse was £349 and 8 shillings and a penny, a significant investment at the time, reflecting the community's commitment to enhancing maritime safety and trade in the region.

The primary objective was to provide warning signals to vessels navigating between the Dee and Mersey Estuary, as well as to safeguard maritime operations along the Welsh coastline. This initiative gained particular significance following the catastrophic loss of two Dublin ferries in 1775, which resulted in the tragic demise of over 200 individuals and considerable damage to cargo.

The lighthouse served as a vital navigational aid, functioning as a directional landfall light with its beam illuminating the northern and western approaches to the Dee estuary. This strategic positioning was essential to alert vessels to the potentially hazardous conditions that characterized the entrance. However, it is important to note that the lighthouse does not feature a light specifically designed to assist mariners as they depart from the estuary, which could pose challenges for navigation in that direction.

The Point of Ayr Lighthouse

The tower was designed based on the Liverpool Docks Board light situated at Hoylake. Its base is inscribed with the initials "H.T.," representing Henry Turner, a prominent local architect and builder.

In 1819, Trinity House assumed ownership from the Point of Ayr Lighthouse Trustees. Since then, Trinity House has served as the authoritative body responsible for lighthouses in Wales and England.

In around 1820, significant alterations were made to the lighthouse structure, including the installation of the current lantern. This reconstruction may have been prompted by a partial structural collapse.

The internal stair was rebuilt circa 1840.

Samuel Brooks, a notable early convert to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS/Mormon Church), served as the lighthouse keeper from 1825 to 1856. During his lengthy tenure, he resided in one of the quaint cottages designated for lighthouse keepers, which offered him a unique vantage point over the turbulent waters. In addition to Brooks, another significant figure in this early community, John Parry Jr., utilized his masonry skills at the lighthouse in 1848, contributing to its architectural integrity and enduring presence along the coastline.

The Point of Ayr Lighthouse

The lighthouse was decommissioned in 1844 and replaced by a "pile light," a similar structure to the Burnham-on-Sea low lighthouse.

The 1844 lighthouse has since vanished.

The original lighthouse was replaced by a lightship moored in the estuary in 1883. This change came after a court allegation in 1882 claimed that the lighthouse was situated too far inland, following an incident where a steamship ran aground. Although the lighthouse was officially decommissioned in 1844, some sources suggest it was actually taken out of service in 1883 or 1884.

 

The tower is a tapered cylindrical brick structure featuring a balcony and a lantern. It was measured to be 16 meters (52 feet) high in 1776, with a base diameter of 7.8 meters (25.75 feet) and a top diameter of 4.9 meters (16 feet). Some sources indicate that it may actually be 18 meters (59 feet) tall or even 60 feet.

The light is positioned 53 feet above high water and can be seen from 9 miles away in clear weather. It displays a white light from E ¾ W to SE, a red light between SE and W by N ¼ N, and then white light again from N by W. A bell is rung during foggy conditions.

Notably, the lighthouse retains one of the earliest lanterns in Wales. The original structure has a slight lean but has withstood numerous storms. In 2007, it sustained damage from storms, which dislocated the metal steps and created a hole in the base. The cost of repairs was covered by the owners of a nearby caravan park.

The lighthouse was restored in the 1990s.

The Point of Ayr Lighthouse

The lighthouse is now privately owned. It was listed for sale in 2011 for £100,000 and was sold in April 2012 for £90,000 to a private couple.

As a Grade II listed building, it holds the distinction of being the oldest lighthouse in Wales.

The lighthouse is often said to be haunted by a ghost named Raymond, who was the last lighthouse keeper and reportedly died of a fever while on duty. Some visitors claim to have seen a man in old-fashioned clothing standing atop the lighthouse, gazing out to sea during night visits.

In honor of the reported ghost, the then-owner, James McAllister, installed a seven-foot stainless steel sculpture of a 'lighthouse keeper' created by local artist Angela Smith on the balcony between 2009 and 2012. However, the planning permission for the sculpture expired, and it was subsequently relocated.

Relocation account

The Point of Ayr Lighthouse

It is a popular tourist attraction and a dog-friendly destination, particularly known for sunset walks that provide stunning views of the Irish Sea and the Dee Estuary. The surrounding dunes are designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest and are part of a nature reserve managed by the RSPB.

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Google Reference: -
53.357046807776754, -3.32238377723201

What Three Words reference: -
///dignify.conducted.overdrive

OS Details: -
Grid Ref: SJ 12095 85271  Elevation 9 ft

Additional information.
Visiting is easy and there is a car park at the site (53.35321642414517, -3.319730302110794).
Access is easy from here. There are no facilities at this car park but an alternative car park close by (53.35196453461079, -3.3168028637702056) has facilities.

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Knowlton Church

The Knowlton Church and Earthworks in Wimborne, Dorset, has a rich history that spans thousands of years. 

It encompasses both prehistoric rituals and later Christian worship, 

and is renowned for being one of the most haunted places in Dorset.

Visit Date June 2025

Knowlton Church

The site is part of the English Heritage collection of historic locations and is renowned for its Neolithic earthworks.

The Knowlton Circles are a complex of henges and earthworks, representing a significant Neolithic and Bronze Age ceremonial site in southern England. Located in the Cranborne Chase area, this site boasts a high number and diversity of prehistoric archaeological remains. 

Click on any image for lager view

There are nearly 100 henges in Britain and Ireland, typically dating from about 3000 to 2000 BC. While they are generally believed to be ceremonial sites, they likely served multiple functions and may have changed roles over time.

The wider Knowlton complex contains five large circular or subcircular monuments. Three of these are henges, characterized by having banks outside their ditches: the Southern Circle (the largest), the central or Church Henge, and the Northern Circle, which is marked by a group of ancient yew trees. 

View of henge ditch and circle.

Adjacent to these henges is a smaller monument, known as the Old Churchyard, which also features an external ditch and is likely prehistoric, despite its name. On the opposite side of the central henge lies a large, tree-covered mound called the Great Barrow. This mound is the largest barrow in Dorset and is surrounded by two concentric ditches. 

Much of this is difficult to see as it is overgrown however An aerial photograph of Knowlton earthworks seen from the north-east was taken in 1995, when the dry weather revealed more earthworks.

This can be seen on the English heritage web site.

https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/knowlton-church-and-earthworks/history/

Knowlton Church

The choice of this location for monument construction was likely significant, possibly connected to natural features such as the River Allen and dolines (sinkholes), which may have held cosmological meaning for ancient communities. Archaeological investigations by John Gale and Bournemouth University suggest that the site evolved over time, serving as both a geographical and spiritual home for communities for approximately one thousand years. It became a major focal point for funerary complexes. 

Evidence indicates the presence of a "Beaker" period structure from the second half of the 3rd millennium BC, which may have been contemporary with the Southern Circle and was later replaced by a funerary site. 

Knowlton Church - Norman Arches

The church's Norman origins are evident in the plain round arch that leads to the east end, or chancel, as well as in the round-headed arches of the arcade that separates the nave from the north aisle. The south door also exhibits Norman characteristics. At the west end, there is a 15th-century tower constructed from flint with stone bands, and the outline of the church roof is clearly visible on the eastern face of the tower.

The church was intentionally built in the heart of a former pagan site, illustrating how early Christians sought to convert the local population by repurposing existing pagan places of worship and incorporating them into their faith. Standing stones, which had been sacred for millennia, were reportedly broken apart and used in the church's construction, while others were toppled and buried. This "curious pairing" of the henge and the church symbolizes the transition from pagan to Christian worship.

Knowlton Church - Showing stone

On the northern edge of the site, it is possible to see a stone left on the ground, a possible remnant of the Neolithic site? The top of another stone can been seen alongside which is buried well below the ground.

Knowlton Church - Yew Trees and tributes

To the north of the church and possibly marking a northern entrance, two yew trees stand as a poignant reminder of those we cherish. People have been leaving heartfelt tributes and memorials, adorning the trees with ribbons and plaques that reflect their love and memories. It’s a touching tribute to the bonds that connect us all.

Knowlton Church

A thriving community once existed in the village of Knowlton. However, the population was decimated by the Black Death in the late 15th century, leading the few surviving inhabitants to abandon the village and migrate elsewhere. Their houses fell into decay and were eventually plowed into the earth, with only vague traces of the foundations still visible to the west of the church. Despite this decline, Knowlton Church continued to attract a congregation for several more centuries, serving as a place of worship until the 17th century, or possibly even the 18th century, when its roof collapsed, after which it was abandoned. Today, it remains a "melancholy ruin."

Knowlton Church - N/W view

Knowlton Church is well-known for its haunted history, with numerous individuals claiming to have encountered paranormal events there. A "spiritual paradox" is evident, as the attempts of early holy men to impose Christianity over pagan beliefs ultimately failed, leaving the church in ruins.

Knowlton Church - Detail

There have been many reported sightings at the ruin.

A phantom horse and rider are said to gallop across the site in the dead of night, passing straight through the church.

A ghostly face has been witnessed peering from the top window of the tower.

The shade of a weeping woman, sometimes described as a nun, has been seen kneeling outside the church.

A phantom black dog has been sighted in the area.

A mysterious cloaked man has been spotted walking around the outside of the church, sometimes in daylight hours, before vanishing. Witnesses have commented on a "truly menacing aura" emanating from him.

In the 19th century, there is a story about thieves who tried to steal a large brass bell from the church tower. However, the bell fell into a river and could not be retrieved. It is said to ring from the ruined tower on stormy nights.

Knowlton Church - Detail

 Paranormal groups investigating the site have reported experiences of being surrounded by swirling white mist and hearing ethereal voices. In November 2020, paranormal investigator Jeff Higgins and his son, Stephen, visited the church at night and recorded what they believe to be a ghost on camera. They noticed movement from the left side of the frame to the right. Additionally, they recorded exceptionally high readings on their K2 and Mel meters, which measure electromagnetic fields, with the Mel meter reaching a level of 50.8, a reading described as "unheard of." Jeff believes this could indicate an "intelligent haunting," meaning the entity is aware of its surroundings and can interact with the environment. Some locals speculate that the henge itself serves as a "ghost trap," confining spirits within the circle.

Many people have said that the atmosphere was eerie on their visit or that they felt unsettled or uncomfortable here. I have to say I did not feel any of that; it just seemed a pleasant, quiet place.

Footer:Visit Information: -
Google Reference: -
50.89215795000064, -1.9670242050628584

What Three Words reference: -
///recapture.waking.starters

OS Details: -
Grid Ref: SU 02382 10281 elevation 193ft

Additional information.
Visiting is easy and there is a lay-by at the site (50.89156612457617, -1.9682256414495787).
Access easy from here.
The site is well signposted off the B3078 in the small village.


There are no facilities at this site.

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Durdle Door

Durdle Door is a notable limestone arch situated on the Jurassic Coast in Dorset, England. 

It boasts a rich geological history, an ancient name, and has inspired various cultural works.

Visit Date June 2025

Durdle Door

The formation of Durdle Door is a result of complex geological processes spanning millions of years.

The story of initial sedimentation began approximately 140 to 150 million years ago during the late Jurassic period when the area was covered by a warm, shallow sea. Over time, layers of sediment and debris, primarily composed of clay, silt, sand, and limestone (known as Portland Stone), were gradually deposited.

Coastline west of Durdle door indicating a small arch formation in the distance.

Around 70 million years ago, tectonic forces caused the Earth's crust to experience folding and uplifting, forming a dome-like structure known as the Lulworth anticline. This process resulted in the rock layers being tilted, almost standing on end.

Durdle Door was formed on a concordant coastline, where layers of rock run parallel to the shoreline. The arch itself is made of resistant Portland Limestone, which is harder than the surrounding rock layers. Over time, the relentless pounding of waves against the coastline gradually eroded the softer rocks behind this harder limestone. This process of differential erosion initially created a notch at the base of the cliff, which then developed into a cave. Eventually, as the cave eroded completely through the hard stone, it transformed into the distinctive arch we see today.

Click on any image for a larger view

Durdle Door is a "process halfway finished." The coastline is dynamic and prone to erosion, leading to occasional rockfalls and landslides. The arch is expected to eventually collapse, creating a sea stack, it is likely to occur during a strong storm, as ongoing erosion weakens the structure.

Coastline east of Durdle door showing 'sea stacks'

The name "Durdle Door" is believed to have ancient origins, possibly dating back over a thousand years, although early written records are limited.

The word "Durdle" is derived from the Old English word "thirl," meaning "to pierce," "bore," or "drill". This, in turn, comes from "thyrel," meaning "hole"

The term "Door" in the name likely refers to the arch's unique arched shape. In the late 19th century, it was also known as the "Barn Door" due to its design, which was tall enough for a sailing boat to pass through.

In the late 18th century, it was referred to as the "magnificent arch of Durdle Rock Door." Early 19th-century maps featured variations of the name, such as "Duddledoor," "Durdle," and "Dudde Door." The first Ordnance Survey map, published in 1811, officially named it "Dirdale Door."

Durdle Door appears in Folklore, Myths, and Popular Culture

Arthur Moule, a Dorset-born missionary and friend of Thomas Hardy, wrote about Durdle Door in his 1879 book of poetry, Songs of Heaven and Home, written in a foreign Land.

Coastal walk marker at Durdle Door.

Durdle Door has been featured in several films, including *Wilde* (1997) with Stephen Fry, *Nanny McPhee* with Emma Thompson, the 1967 *Far From The Madding Crowd*, and the Bollywood film *Housefull*. Most recently, it appeared in the 2022 *Doctor Who* episode "The Power of the Doctor," where the Thirteenth Doctor regenerated.

Parts of music videos for Tears for Fears' "Shout," Billy Ocean's "Loverboy," Cliff Richard's "Saviour's Day," and Bruce Dickinson's "Tears of the Dragon" were filmed at Durdle Door.

Footer:Visit Information: -
Google Reference: -
50.62127062504596, -2.2762703993436575

What Three Words reference: -
///crabmeat.inversely.chat

OS Details: -

Grid Ref: SY 80524 80195 Elevation: 74 ft 

Additional information.

Visiting is easy and there is a public car park at the site (50.62416344362244, -2.269425401934578).

Access is well signposted off the B3070 near Burngate and onto Church Road. On this road it feels like you are entering a holiday park but continue to follow the signs and you will eventually come to the car park. Access then is along the coastal path down to the site and beach. There is a steep climb down to the viewing area and if you wish to get to the beach it is a further climb down many steps. This is difficult if you have poor mobility.

At the car park there is refreshments and toilet services. This place gets very busy, especially in the summer months.

The car park is not free and there is a number plate recognition system in use and payment is made by card on leaving.

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Harold's Stones

Harold's Stones

In the village of Trellech, three megaliths stand. The village likely got its name from these stones, translating to either 'village of stones' or 'three stones.' The name derives from 'tri' (Welsh for three) and 'llech' (meaning flat stone).

Visit Date January 2025

Harold's Stones : Trellech

These three large standing stones in a 12-metre alignment, all three are leaning at angles but it is unlikely that this is deliberate.

Harold's Stones : Trellech

Although a relatively small village in modern times, Trellech in Monmouthshire was one of the largest towns in Wales in the 13th century.

Harold's stones are in a 12-metre alignment with a possible fourth stone being robbed away or destroyed in the late 18th century. The stones are of a conglomerate rock that's known as pudding stone. All the stones lean at different angles with the tallest being over 4 metres in height. 

Harold's Stones : Trellech

A font in the local church has a carving of the stones with the stones numbered 8, 10 and 14 which is thought to be the height of each stone at that time.

Harold's Stones : Trellech

The precise reason for the erection of the stones is unknown however, they may have been for ritual, though an astronomical use is not out of the question.

The stones create an approximate line running between the north-east and south-west at an azimuth of about 229°, likely indicating the midwinter sunset, although the possibility of the midsummer sunrise cannot be dismissed due to the imprecise alignment today due to the movement.

Harold's Stones : Trellech

The central stone of the three has been dressed to smooth its surface and bears two large cup marks on its face.

Harold's Stones : Trellech

There is much folklore associated with the stones.

The origin of the name "Harold's Stones" remains a mystery. Local legend suggests that these stones were erected to commemorate the victory of the Saxon king Harold over the Britons. However, this theory is unlikely, as the stones date back at least 2,000 years before Harold's time. Another legend claims that they mark the location where three British chieftains fell in battle against Harold. Despite being associated with Harold's victory over the Britons, the stones are much older than that.

Click on any image for a larger version

As another story goes, Jack o'Kent, a giant, quarrelled with the Devil on Trellech Beacon, which is the hill located directly east of Trellech. The Devil challenged Jack to a throwing match. Jack threw first, but the Devil managed to throw his object a bit farther. However, Jack, probably with his eyes closed and one hand behind his back, threw just a bit farther than the Devil. In frustration, the Devil ran off.

The location of this event varies depending on who tells the story. Some versions claim that the competition took place on Sugar Loaf Mountain, while a third version cites Skirrid Fawr, also known as Holy Mountain, as the site of the contest.

Footer:Visit Information: -
Google Reference: -
51.74277538693781, -2.7265470451085365

What Three Words reference: -
///jeep.pylon.streetcar

OS Details: -
OS Grid Ref: SO 49927 05145 Elevation: 206 m 

Additional information.

Visiting is easy and there is a public car park close to the site (51.74405088914131, -2.7246217913570847) There is just a short walk along the road to the site however, this has no pavement so care will be needed. The site is marked with a monument sign.

There are no facilities at the site but there is a pub in the village and also you may be lucky enough to have tea in the village hall!

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