Parc Cwm Long Cairn (Giant's Grave) Neolithic Burial Chamber
Explore a 6,000-year-old Neolithic chambered tomb nestled in a tranquil Welsh valley, revealing ancient burial rites and prehistoric heritage.
Parc Cwm Long Cairn, also known as the Giant's Grave, is a well-preserved Neolithic chambered tomb located in Parkmill, Swansea. Dating back around 6,000 years, this trapezoidal long cairn features a central passageway with side chambers where the bones of at least 40 individuals were found. Set in a tranquil valley once part of a medieval deer park, it offers visitors a glimpse into ancient funerary practices and prehistoric life in Wales.
A brief summary to Giant's Grave
- Swansea, Parkmill, SA3 2EH, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the site and read the informative boards.
- Wear comfortable footwear for a mostly flat and accessible walk along an asphalt path.
- Bring a camera to capture the unique stone architecture and serene valley views.
- Combine your visit with a walk to nearby Cathole Cave to explore more prehistoric sites.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Parking
Getting There
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Car
Driving from Swansea city center takes approximately 25 to 35 minutes. There is a small Forestry Commission car park for about 20 vehicles located 250 meters from the site. Parking is free but limited, so arriving early is recommended, especially on weekends.
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Public Transport
Take the bus from Swansea to Parkmill village; the journey typically lasts 40 to 50 minutes depending on service frequency. From Parkmill, the site is a 15-minute walk along a mostly flat asphalt path. Check local bus schedules in advance as services may be infrequent on weekends.
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Walking
For those staying nearby or exploring the Gower Peninsula, a pleasant 30-minute walk from Parkmill village leads to the cairn via a smooth, accessible path suitable for most fitness levels and wheelchair users.
Giant's Grave location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Giant's Grave
Ancient Origins and Archaeological Significance
Parc Cwm Long Cairn, locally known as the Giant's Grave, is a Neolithic chambered tomb dating from around 3500 BC. It belongs to the Cotswold-Severn tradition of long barrows, characterized by an elongated trapezoidal shape and a narrow central passage flanked by burial chambers. Excavations in 1869 and the early 1960s uncovered the remains of at least 40 individuals, along with pottery fragments and animal bones, some of which predate the tomb itself. The site reveals important insights into prehistoric burial customs and social structures in early farming communities of Wales.Architectural Features and Layout
The cairn measures approximately 21 meters (70 feet) in length and is constructed from limestone rubble, edged with dry-stone walling. Its most distinctive feature is the bell-shaped forecourt at the southern end, flanked by broad horns, which leads into a central passageway lined with upright limestone slabs. This passageway opens into four small side chambers or cells, once covered by large capstones that have since disappeared. The tomb’s design reflects a hybrid style between typical Cotswold-Severn long barrows and megalithic traditions from the western Atlantic coasts.Setting Within the Landscape and Historical Context
Nestled in a narrow, leafy valley on the Gower Peninsula, the cairn sits near a stream that now flows underground. The surrounding area was once a medieval deer park, adding layers of historical significance to the landscape. The site is surrounded by woodland and accessed via a flat, asphalt path, making it accessible to most visitors. Nearby features include Cathole Cave, an Ice Age hunting camp and Bronze Age burial site, which links the area to a deep prehistoric past.Visitor Experience and Access
Visitors can explore the exposed burial chambers and forecourt, with information boards providing archaeological context. The walk to the cairn is gentle and mostly flat, suitable for families and those with limited mobility. The site is maintained by Cadw, the Welsh Government’s historic environment division, and offers free access year-round during daylight hours. Parking is available nearby, and the tranquil valley setting enhances the contemplative atmosphere of this ancient monument.Legends and Cultural Resonance
The name 'Giant’s Grave' stems from early reports describing the robust skeletal remains of males found during excavation, which were once thought to be giants. Local folklore and Arthurian legends enrich the cultural tapestry of the area, with nearby prehistoric sites linked to mythic tales. The cairn stands as a testament not only to Neolithic engineering but also to the enduring human fascination with death, memory, and the landscape.Conservation and Educational Importance
Parc Cwm Long Cairn is a protected archaeological site that offers invaluable educational opportunities about Neolithic life and death practices. Its preservation allows scholars and visitors alike to connect with Wales’ prehistoric heritage. The site’s management prioritizes accessibility and sustainability, ensuring that this ancient monument remains a vital part of the cultural landscape for future generations.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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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
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Nature Escape
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
