Visit Chysauster Ancient Village near Penzance — explore stone homes, history, and views from Cornwall’s best-preserved Iron Age settlement.

Visit Chysauster Ancient Village Cornwall

Ever imagined what life was like in Britain 2,000 years ago? At Chysauster Ancient Village, you can walk among the stone remains of an Iron Age settlement once home to the Dumnonii tribe.

Hidden in the hills near Penzance, this atmospheric site offers a rare glimpse into everyday life in prehistoric Cornwall — complete with sweeping views across the countryside.

A Window into the Iron Age

Dating back nearly two millennia, Chysauster Ancient Village was occupied from around 100 BC to AD 300. It’s one of the best-preserved Iron Age villages in Britain.

You’ll find the foundations of stone “courtyard houses” — circular dwellings unique to Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly. These homes were built from local granite, arranged around open courtyards where families cooked, worked, and gathered.

As you explore, notice the alignment of pathways and rooms. They reveal a close-knit farming community that thrived long before Roman influence reached this far west.

What to See
Courtyard Houses and Artefacts

Ten excavated houses showing domestic life in detail.

Storage pits, hearths, and drains still visible after centuries.

Artefacts such as pottery, querns, and tools discovered on site.

Informative panels explain how the villagers grew crops, kept animals, and traded with nearby settlements. The simple layout makes it easy to imagine smoke rising from hearths and the sounds of daily life.

The Fogou Mystery

Just beyond the village lies a fogou — an underground passage built of stone slabs. Its exact purpose remains unknown. Some believe it was used for storage or as a place of refuge; others think it had a spiritual role.

Exploring this hidden tunnel adds a sense of mystery and wonder to the visit. Remember to bring a torch if you want a closer look!

Scenic Setting and Wildlife

Set high on a hillside, Chysauster offers panoramic views across West Cornwall towards Mount’s Bay. The site is surrounded by heathland that blooms with wildflowers in spring and summer.

You might spot butterflies, skylarks, or even kestrels hovering above the moor. The peaceful landscape feels unchanged for centuries — perfect for quiet reflection or photography.

Visitor Information

Managed by: English Heritage

Entry: Ticketed; free for English Heritage members.

Location: Near Gulval, Penzance, Cornwall TR20 8XA.

Transport: Best reached by car; parking available near the site.

Facilities: Small shop, toilets, and outdoor picnic area.

Accessibility: Uneven ground; sturdy footwear recommended.

Guided tours and family trails are available during summer months. Dogs on leads are welcome, making it a great outdoor experience for all ages.

for more information about Chysauster Ancient Village please visit Official English Heritage page

Why Visit Chysauster Ancient Village?

The Chysauster Ancient Village brings pre-Roman Britain to life. It’s a place where you can walk through real homes, touch ancient stones, and imagine a thriving community that once stood here.

Peaceful, scenic, and steeped in history, it’s one of Cornwall’s most evocative archaeological sites — and a must-see for anyone interested in Britain’s ancient past.

Step back in time and experience the world of Cornwall’s Iron Age farmers at Chysauster Ancient Village.