Name of monument
Bedd Arthur
Also known as
Type of site
Stone circle
Dimensions (approx)
H:
W:
D:
LR Grid Reference
SN 130 325
OS Map Number
LR 145
Nearest Village
Nearest Town
Property Type
Access
MRW Access rating
MRW Site Rating
Other information
Legends / stories attached to this monument. Inscriptions. See who has provided other information.
The prehistoric site of Bedd Arthur, (Arthur’s Grave) lies on a hillside, across the valley from the infamous Carn Menyn. Some call it an oval stone circle, some see it more as two parallel stone lines, closed at one end. It has even been suggested that its horseshoe shape was the inspiration for the innermost circle at Stonehenge. As we know, the bluestones used for the inner circles were from Carn Menyn just across the valley, and skeletons of men found at Stonehenge have been traced to this area, who knows. One thing is for sure, whatever its significance and purpose to our ancestors, Bedd Arthur is an exceptionally enigmatic and tranquil site today. Another puzzling aspect of this site is the fact that we counted 13 visible stones, but every other publication we have read says there are only 12. Whatever the number, this site is definitely well worth a visit, although actually getting to it is somewhat of an arduous process, so be prepared for quite a walk. We came across the minor road, from Mynachlog-Ddu, heading for Rosebush. We passed the two memorial stones on either side the road, and parked just round the corner, by the wall on your right. Then it’s the climb, straight up on to the top, and a fair gradient it is to. Once on top however, the views are totally breathtaking in every direction. You simply have to keep walking across the top, amongst the huge rocky outcrops. After quite a walk, you will see Carn Bica on the horizon in the distance, you can’t mistake it, as it stands alone, a tall outcrop of rock. Head for there, and as you approach Bedd Arthur can be seen below it, to the right. We found the terrain to be quite boggy and quite hard going at times, but the stunning scenery and feel of this magical place more than made up for it.
There are 13 visible stones, of which the tallest measures 1m - this stone can be seen in the picture below, at the back on the right hand side and is clearly a different colour from the rest.
