Michaelstow

Cornwall Information & Accommodation Guide

Michaelstow village and parish lie on the western side of Bodmin Moor in a very pretty setting.

Of archaeological interest in the parish is Helsbury Castle, a hill fort dating from the Iron Age, some 2500 or so years ago. The fort is univallate, having a single rampart and ditch. The rampart extends to 4m in height. The hill fort stands on Michaelstow Beacon (208m/684ft)

There are the ruins of a chapel within the hill fort. The chapel was dedicated to St Syth.

The Parish Church is dedicated to St Michael. Most of the current building dates from the 15th century but there are some remains of its Norman heritage at the east end.

In the churchyard is a fine four holed cross nearly 3.5m (over 11ft) in height.

Remains of several ancient crosses stand within the parish. The Trevenning Cross is a four holed cross which has suffered some damage. This cross stands at the boundary between Michaelstow and St Tudy and is accessible to the public.

Two other wheel headed crosses stand in private grounds at Trevennen House. There is no public access.

There are two holy wells within the parish. The first stands just outside the church within the churchyard while the second is loacated in the hamlet of Fentonadle, named in 1613 as marking the boundary between Advent, Michaelstow and Lanteglos-by-Camelford parishes. The dedication of Fentonadle Well could be to St Adwenna, the patron of Advent church.

Location:
IntoCornwall Area Map Bodmin Moor Area

Road directions to Michaelstow

Books online:
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