The Burnham-on-Sea Low Lighthouse

  

The Burnham-on-Sea Low Lighthouse, fondly referred to as 'the Lighthouse on Legs',

 has a rich and dynamic history that has evolved significantly since 

its construction in 1832 and continues to play an operational role today.

Visit Date: April 2025

The Burnham-on-Sea Low Lighthouse

The Low Lighthouse was built in 1832 by Joseph Nelson. It was constructed alongside the High Lighthouse to replace the original Round Tower Lighthouse, which had previously replaced a light maintained in the tower of St. Andrew's Church.

Its primary purpose has been to guide fishing boats and vessels safely into the entrance channel of the River Parrett, where it flows into the Bristol Channel. The Bristol Channel is known for its extensive mudflats and a tidal range that can recede over 1.5 miles (2.4 km), along with constantly shifting sands, all of which pose significant risks to shipping.

The structure is a Grade II listed heritage building. It is a square wooden building standing 9 meters (30 feet) tall on nine wooden stilts or piles, sunk sixteen feet into the sand.

Click on any image for a lager view

Initially, the lighthouse was painted white with a black vertical stripe on the seaward side. In 1890, the color of the stripe was changed to red to make the lighthouse more visible during the day. Today, it remains white with a single vertical red stripe on its front face.

The Low Lighthouse originally displayed a narrow fixed beam of white light from its upper floor, visible through a square window. It functioned as a leading light in conjunction with the High Lighthouse, meaning vessels would align the two lights (one above the other) to determine the exact bearing of the deep-water channel into the Parrett estuary.

The Low Light had a range of 12 nautical miles (22 km; 14 mi). Beyond the channel, it also assisted vessels approaching the Bristol Channel from Hurlstone Point and Minehead. Keepers stationed at the High Lighthouse oversaw the operation of the Low Light.

The Burnham-on-Sea Low Lighthouse

By April 1844, the Gore Sand had extended, making the alignment of the lighthouses inaccurate for indicating the deep-water channel. As a result, starting November 1, 1866, an additional red light was installed in the Low Lighthouse to shine towards Gore Sand, and another red light was added to guide departing vessels upriver.

With the arrival of electricity in Burnham in 1927, incandescent light bulbs replaced paraffin vapor burners in both lighthouses, rendering the keepers redundant. A submarine cable connected the two lighthouses, and their light characteristics were synchronized and controlled by a motor-driven machine in the High Lighthouse. Both lights were given an occulting characteristic, with the Low Light occulting every 2.5 seconds. It received a 500-watt bulb with a range of 9 nautical miles (17 km; 10 mi). An automatic lamp changer was also installed as a backup.

The Burnham-on-Sea Low Lighthouse

The Low Lighthouse was deactivated in 1969 due to the installation of a new subsidiary sector light in a lower window of the High Lighthouse, which provided the correct bearing for the deep-water channel, making the Low Lighthouse surplus to requirements. However, on December 31, 1993, the Low Lighthouse was re-established and recommissioned after the High Lighthouse was decommissioned and sold, becoming a private residence and tourist attraction. The High Lighthouse's flashing white light and subsidiary sector light functions were transferred to the Low Lighthouse.

The Burnham-on-Sea Low Lighthouse

The lighthouse has undergone multiple restorations due to rough sea conditions. Its stairway was removed in 1984 due to storm damage, and a metal stairway was later installed in 2010. The building receives a fresh coat of marine-grade paint every six years, with a total of 50 liters of Cuprinol opaque wood finish used for a previous makeover.

The Burnham-on-Sea Low Lighthouse

Somerset Council inspects the building twice a year.

The current significance of the lighthouse is as an active navigation aid. It provides a white flash every 7 to 7.5 seconds and a fixed directional light (white, red, or green depending on direction) at a focal plane of 4 meters (13 ft), while the focal plane for the main light is 7 meters (23 ft).

The Burnham-on-Sea Low Lighthouse

The lighthouse is currently owned and maintained by Somerset Council; it was previously operated by Sedgemoor District Council. Funding for its maintenance has been confirmed as secure by Somerset Council, despite budget concerns.

The Burnham-on-Sea Low Lighthouse

The Low Lighthouse is an iconic structure and a symbol of the town's rich maritime heritage. It is popular with photographers and tourists and is featured in the town's coat of arms, local signage, and literature. The lighthouse is also a subject for local artists. Visitors can walk to its base during low tide, although there is no public access to enter the lighthouse itself. It is a key attraction on Burnham-on-Sea Beach.

The Burnham-on-Sea Low Lighthouse

While the lighthouse is a popular destination, visitors are strongly cautioned about the hazardous mudflats and sinking sand on the beach, which are due to the area's vast tidal range. 

The Burnham-on-Sea Low Lighthouse

Symbolizing the town's rich maritime heritage, the Low Lighthouse is a popular destination for photographers and tourists alike, featuring prominently in local signage and literature. Although visitors can approach its base during low tide, access inside the lighthouse is restricted. The lighthouse is a central attraction on Burnham-on-Sea Beach, but visitors are advised to exercise caution due to hazardous mudflats and sinking sand typical of the area’s extensive tidal range.

Footer:Visit Information: -
Google Reference: -
51.24845147253358, -3.00585011421767

What Three Words reference: -
///wallet.quilting.cunning

OS Details: -
Grid Ref: ST 29892 50396

Additional information.
Visiting is easy as this is on the public beach, the nearest parking would be on Poplar Road

 ( 51.24464740501554, -3.000507843662151) but this is busy. 

There is however plenty of parking on the sea front 

(51.2391062944699, -2.9989930766074693) then there is an easy 1.1 KM walk along the beach. 

There are lots of facilities on the sea front.

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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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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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The Church of the Holy Cross, Mwnt.

The Church of the Holy Cross (Welsh: Eglwys y Grog)

 in Mwnt, Ceredigion, Wales. 

A parish church and a Grade I listed building, 

likely dating from the 13th century.

Visit Date March 2025

The Church of the Holy Cross, Mwnt.

The Church of the Holy Cross is an example of a medieval sailors' chapel of ease, allowing sailors to attend church without traveling all the way to the village of Mwnt.

Click on any image to see a larger version

The site is said to have been used since the Age of the Saints (about 410-700 AD).

The coast at Mwnt

The dedication to the Holy Cross likely references a stone cross that once stood atop Foel y Mwnt, the conical hill directly behind the church.

The cross would also have been visible for many miles out to sea,  attracting pilgrims who drew their boats up on the sandy beach at the base of the cliffs.

A pilgrims way wall hanging

Mwnt gained a reputation among early Christians as a stopover for the bodies of saints being transported to Bardsey Island for burial. Its location also made it a convenient resting place for pilgrims traveling to St. David's, further down the coast.

North wall showing blocked lancet

On the north wall, there is a small blocked lancet window that may have permitted lepers—who were not allowed inside churches—to view the high altar during services.

The Church of the Holy Cross, Mwnt.

On the north wall, remnants of a medieval rood stair can be found, and timbers from the 15th-century rood loft, embellished with rose carvings, are set into the wall.

Click on any image to see a larger version

The interior consists of a single chamber featuring deep-set windows and a unusually designed roof.

The font

It has an example of a 12th- or 13th-century font made of Preseli stone.

The coast at Mwnt

In 1155, a group of Flemish soldiers landed at Mwnt but were repelled by the local Welsh after fierce fighting. A nearby stream still bears the name Nant y Fflymon, meaning the Flemings' Brook.

The Church of the Holy Cross, Mwnt.

Over the centuries, many human bones have been unearthed. It is believed that the bodies from the battle were buried in the farmer’s field.

The Church of the Holy Cross, Mwnt.

The victory achieved by the local Welsh inhabitants in the area was commemorated, at least in the 18th century when the events were recorded, through secular games held on the first Sunday in January. These games were referred to as “Coch y Mwnt,” which translates to "the Bloody Sunday of Mount."

The Church of the Holy Cross, Mwnt.

The nearby farm features a well named Ffynnon Grog, known as the well of the cross, along with Nant y Flymon, which translates to Fleming’s brook. 

Mwnt was a civil parish for several centuries. However, before the 17th century, it served as a detached chapelry of the parish of Llangoedmor. Since 1934, Mwnt has been part of the parish of Y Ferwig, which consists of a parish church and a few houses. This community includes the villages of Penparc, Felinwynt, Tremain, Mwnt, and Gwbert, as well as Cardigan Island and the National Trust area of Mwnt.

Footer:Visit Information: -
Google Reference: -
52.13694896383402, -4.638645221098706

What Three Words reference: -
///echo.dwarf.mission

OS Details: -
OS Grid Ref: SN 19504 52017 

Additional information.

Visiting is easy and there is a car park close to the site (52.135662647388045, -4.638483304444649) This is run by the national trust and is free for members but charges do apply for non-members.

There were no facilities when I visited in March however there is a cafe (Caban Mwnt) a short walk from the car park  (52.1347209027339, -4.639436590459322).

The roads to the site are well maintained single track country roads with passing points. 

I believe this site can become very busy in the summer with visitors to the beach and surrounding areas. 

.

A full list of blogs can be found at my website

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