Belas Knap Long Barrow: A Neolithic Portal to the Past in the Cotswolds
Explore a 5,000-year-old Neolithic burial mound with a mysterious false entrance and panoramic Cotswolds views near Winchcombe.
Belas Knap Long Barrow is a remarkably well-preserved Neolithic burial mound dating back to around 3000 BCE. Located near Winchcombe in the Cotswolds, this trapezoid-shaped monument features a distinctive false entrance and multiple side burial chambers. Visitors can explore its ancient architecture and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding rolling hills, connecting deeply with over 5,000 years of human history.
A brief summary to Belas Knap Long Barrow
- Cheltenham, Winchcombe, GL54 5AL, GB
- +443703331181
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Wear sturdy footwear as the walk to the barrow includes a steep, potentially muddy climb through fields and woodland.
- Bring a camera to capture the panoramic views of the rolling Cotswolds landscape, especially around sunrise or sunset.
- Keep dogs on a lead due to grazing sheep in the surrounding fields.
- Allow 30 to 60 minutes to explore the site and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Food Options
- Drink Options
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Car
Driving from Cheltenham, the journey to Belas Knap takes approximately 25 to 35 minutes. Limited parking is available at a lay-by on the Cotswold Way near the footpath entrance. Note that parking spaces are few and can fill quickly during peak times.
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Public Transport
From Cheltenham, take a local bus service to Winchcombe, which takes about 30 to 40 minutes. From Winchcombe, a 2.5 km walk along public footpaths leads to Belas Knap, including some steep and uneven terrain.
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Walking
For walkers on the Cotswold Way National Trail, Belas Knap is a scenic stop approximately 1 mile from the nearest parking. The path involves a moderate uphill climb through fields and woodland, including two stiles and a kissing gate. Suitable footwear is essential.
Belas Knap Long Barrow location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Windy Conditions
Discover more about Belas Knap Long Barrow
Ancient Origins and Monumental Design
Belas Knap Long Barrow is a striking example of a Neolithic chambered tomb constructed approximately 5,000 years ago, around 3000 BCE. It belongs to the Cotswold-Severn group of long barrows, characterized by their trapezoidal mounds and stone chamber construction. The barrow measures about 54 meters in length and 18 meters wide, standing nearly 4.3 meters tall. Its orientation is somewhat unusual, running north to south, and it is encircled by a dry-stone retaining wall that has been carefully restored over the years.The Enigmatic False Entrance and Burial Chambers
One of Belas Knap’s most intriguing features is its false entrance, a grand portal with large limestone jambs and lintels that was never intended for physical entry. This architectural element may have served to deter grave robbers or acted as a symbolic 'spirit door' allowing the dead to receive offerings and move between worlds. Actual burial chambers lie along the sides and south end of the mound—four in total—each constructed with upright stone slabs and dry-stone walling, originally covered by corbelled roofs. Excavations have uncovered the remains of at least 38 individuals, including adults and children, alongside animal bones and Neolithic artifacts, revealing a long history of successive burials.Excavations, Restorations, and Historical Significance
Belas Knap was first excavated in the mid-19th century and again in the early 20th century, with significant restoration efforts undertaken to stabilize and preserve the site. These excavations revealed not only human remains but also pottery shards and flint tools, offering insights into the burial practices and material culture of Neolithic communities. The site was also open during Roman times, as evidenced by Romano-British artifacts found within. Today, it stands as a protected monument managed by Gloucestershire County Council and English Heritage, symbolizing the region’s rich prehistoric heritage.Setting and Visitor Experience
Set atop Cleeve Hill near Winchcombe, Belas Knap offers visitors a peaceful and evocative landscape typical of the Cotswolds. The walk to the barrow involves a moderate uphill trek through woodland and fields, providing scenic views of the surrounding countryside. The site’s elevated position affords sweeping panoramas, especially stunning during sunrise or sunset. The tranquil atmosphere invites reflection on the ancient past, while the architectural features encourage curiosity about Neolithic beliefs and rituals.Access and Practical Information
Visitors can reach Belas Knap via a public footpath starting across from a lay-by on the Cotswold Way National Trail, with parking available nearby. The walk includes two stiles and a kissing gate, and the terrain can be muddy, so sturdy footwear is recommended. While there are no onsite facilities, amenities such as toilets and eateries are available in Winchcombe a short drive away. Dogs should be kept on leads due to grazing livestock. The site is open year-round during daylight hours with free entry.Connecting with Neolithic Heritage
Belas Knap Long Barrow is not only a remarkable archaeological site but also a place to connect with the distant past. Its mysterious false door and side chambers reflect complex spiritual beliefs and funerary customs of early farming communities. As part of a network of Gloucestershire long barrows, it offers a unique window into Neolithic life and death, inviting visitors to contemplate the passage of time and the enduring human presence on this landscape.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Cotswold Journeys
3.8 km
Explore the enchanting Cotswolds on expertly crafted walking tours with seamless logistics and charming local stays.
World Walks (inc. Cotswold Journeys, British & Irish Walks)
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Cotswold Way
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Tewkesbury Abbey
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Cotswolds AONB
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Gloucestershire Historic Churches Trust
15.4 km
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Visit Cotswolds Online
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The Model Village
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The Dragonfly Maze
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Odda's Chapel
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Greystones Farm Nature Reserve
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Sezincote House & Garden
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Great Witcombe Roman Villa
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St Edward's Church
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Cerney House Gardens
17.8 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Sudeley Castle Gardens
2.4 km
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Sudeley Castle
2.4 km
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Cleeve Hill
2.6 km
Discover the highest peak of the Cotswolds with breathtaking views, rich nature, and invigorating walking trails at Cleeve Hill.
Winchcombe Museum
2.9 km
Discover Winchcombe’s rich history and artisan pottery heritage at this intimate museum in the heart of the Cotswolds.
Gloucestershire Warwickshire Steam Railway
4.3 km
Step aboard vintage steam trains through the scenic Cotswolds on a 28-mile heritage railway journey filled with history, charm, and community spirit.
Whittington Court
4.9 km
Discover the charm of Whittington Court, a beautifully preserved Tudor manor nestled in the tranquil Cotswold countryside near Cheltenham.
Hailes Abbey
5.5 km
Explore the tranquil ruins of 13th-century Hailes Abbey, a captivating Cistercian site steeped in medieval history and set in peaceful Cotswold countryside.
Hailes Church
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Pittville Park
7.0 km
Cheltenham’s largest ornamental park blending Victorian heritage, lakes, sports, and family fun in a lush, historic setting.
The Frogmill
7.2 km
A charming historic mill-turned-inn offering cosy rooms, delicious food, and a tranquil Cotswolds escape near Cheltenham.
Holst Victorian House
7.3 km
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High St
7.8 km
Cheltenham’s main shopping street, where big brands meet independent boutiques in a lively Cotswolds market town.
The Hare and the Minotaur
7.9 km
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The Wilson Art Gallery and Museum and The Wilson Kitchen arts café
7.9 km
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Stanway House
8.0 km
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Essential places to dine
5 North St
2.9 km
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The Halfway at Kineton
7.6 km
A charming 17th-century Cotswold pub blending rustic ambiance with refined seasonal British cuisine and warm hospitality.
The Coconut Tree Cheltenham
7.7 km
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Petit Coco Bistro
7.7 km
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Purslane Restaurant
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Cosy Club
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Eclectic British dining and lively social vibes await you daily in Cheltenham’s vibrant Brewery Quarter.
Prithvi
7.8 km
Experience innovative Indian fine dining in Cheltenham with exquisite flavors, elegant ambiance, and impeccable service at Prithvi.
Lumiere
7.9 km
Michelin-starred Lumière in Cheltenham offers innovative British fine dining with seasonal, home-grown ingredients in an elegant, intimate setting.
MUSE Brasserie
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Le Champignon Sauvage
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The Ivy Montpellier Brasserie Cheltenham
8.5 km
Elegant dining in Cheltenham’s historic Montpellier Rotunda, blending modern British cuisine with iconic Ivy style and grand architectural charm.
Buckland Manor
12.1 km
Elegant historic manor hotel with fine dining and tranquil gardens in the heart of the Cotswolds’ charming Broadway village.
Russell’s of Broadway
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The Old Smokery
14.4 km
A lively Cotswolds hub blending rustic dining, vibrant events, and welcoming atmosphere at Far Peak Camping.
The Rose Tree Restaurant
15.4 km
Charming riverside British dining in a historic Cotswold cottage with cozy interiors and scenic garden views.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Just Incase Gifts
3.0 km
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Vinegar Hill
8.1 km
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Great British Boutique
8.6 km
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Emporium
8.6 km
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Willow Hilson Vintage
8.8 km
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The Malt House Emporium
12.5 km
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Wild at Heart
14.1 km
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Betty & Violet
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The Man Cave Broadway
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Cotswolds Distillery Shop
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Whatever The Weather
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Cotswold Trading - Broadway
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The Cotswold Stores
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Cotswold Picture Shop
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Cotswold China & Cookware
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Lion Inn
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The Royal Oak, Prestbury
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Hollow Bottom
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The Cotswold Inn, Cheltenham.
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Copa of Cheltenham
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The Retreat
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Snowshill Arms
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The House in The Tree
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Experimental Cocktail Club Cotswolds
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The Gloucester Old Spot
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The Green Dragon Inn Pub & Shop
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Kingsbridge
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The Coach & Horses
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THE STUMP
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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Coco
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The 21 Club
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MooMoo Clubrooms Cheltenham
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Popworld - Cheltenham
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Home and Botanic Nightclub
8.1 km
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Thirteen Degrees
8.1 km
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Under the Prom
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ATIK Gloucester
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Jax Nightclub Gloucester
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ReVA Nightclub
23.5 km
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Trio Nightclub
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Sin
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The Stratford Upon Avon Bridge Club
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunrise Spots
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Low Impact
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Myth & Legends
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
