The barrow's interior chambers, accessible through a narrow passageway at the eastern end, reveal a fascinating glimpse into its history. Excavations in the 19th century unearthed the remains of nearly 50 individuals, believed to have been interred here over several centuries. Archaeologists also discovered pottery fragments, flint tools, and animal bones, offering clues about the rituals and practices of the Neolithic communities who built and used the barrow.
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West Kennet Long Barrow
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West Kennet Long Barrow is a captivating monument that whispers tales of a distant past. This Neolithic barrow, estimated to be built around 3650 BC, predates Stonehenge by a thousand years and stands as a silent sentinel amidst the vibrant landscapes of the Avebury World Heritage Site.
Stretching approximately 340 feet (104 meters) in length and reaching a height of 39 feet (12 meters), West Kennet Long Barrow is one of the longest and best-preserved Neolithic funerary monuments in Britain. Its imposing earthen mound, meticulously constructed from sarsen stones, tapers from a width of 70 feet (21 meters) at the eastern end to 40 feet (12 meters) at the western, creating a distinctive elongated silhouette against the sky.
The precise purpose and meaning of West Kennet Long Barrow remain shrouded in mystery. The alignment of its entrance passage with the equinoxes suggests a possible connection to celestial observations and the passage of time. Some scholars believe the barrow may have served as a communal space for rituals and ceremonies, while others speculate it functioned as a symbolic gateway to the afterlife.
Beyond its own enigmatic presence, West Kennet Long Barrow forms a fascinating part of the wider Avebury landscape. Its proximity to Silbury Hill, another enigmatic prehistoric monument, and its alignment with the Avebury stone circle fuel speculation about a complex network of interconnected ritual sites, hinting at the sophisticated belief systems of these early communities.
Today, West Kennet Long Barrow stands as a powerful testament to the ingenuity and enduring legacy of Neolithic Britain. Managed by the National Trust and English Heritage, this ancient monument welcomes visitors to explore its timeless beauty and ponder the mysteries it holds. Whether you're an archaeology enthusiast, a history buff, or simply seeking a connection to the past, West Kennet Long Barrow promises an unforgettable encounter with a bygone era.
Address: West Kennett Long Barrow, West Kennett, Marlborough, Wiltshire SN8 1QH
Website: West Kennett Long Barrow (English Heritage)
Telephone: 0370 333 1181
Directions from A4 (Marlborough): Leave Marlborough and travel westbound on the A4/Bath Road. After 5.4 miles you will arrive at the West Kennet Long Barrow Layby. The monument is a short walk.
Entry fees: Free
Admission times: Open any reasonable time during daylight hours.
Parking: Yes, free at the West Kennet Long Barrow Lay-by
Accessibility: There is a half mile walk uphill across uneven farmland signposted from the lay-by to the barrow. There is an unguarded drop from the top of the barrow above the entrance. You should wear appropriate footwear and prepare for the weather.
Dogs: Assistance dogs only.
Facilities: Toilets and a cafe are available near the museum in Avebury approx. 3.0 miles away.
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West Kennet Long Barrow Tours
Staying in London and don't want the hassle of driving yourself? Then take a private chauffeur-driven tour to West Kennet Long Barrow. Get picked up from your London hotel and travel in comfort to the ancient monument. Tours can be customised and combined with other popular UK tourist attractions.
