Best natural monuments around St. Neot are found within a landscape characterized by rugged moorland, ancient woodlands, and distinctive geological formations on the southern edge of Bodmin Moor in Cornwall. This area offers a diverse range of natural features, from granite tors shaped by millennia of erosion to ancient stone circles. Visitors can explore high points offering expansive views and tranquil woodland settings. The region provides numerous opportunities for outdoor exploration amidst its varied natural beauty.
Last updated: July 1, 2026
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This landmark is located next to the Cheesewring Quarry (which provided the granite cladding for the structure of Tower Bridge in London) and is surrounded by other granite formations. In the late 19th century, this landmark was threatened with destruction due to its proximity to blasting operations, but was saved through local activism.
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Three beautiful Neolithic or Early Bronze Age stone circles arranged in a line, a unique grouping in England. The Hurlers Stone Circles are probably the best examples of ceremonial circles in the South West. https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/hurlers-stone-circles/
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The River Fowey tumbles its way down the Golitha Falls, a collection of waterfalls in Draynes Wood. It is also a haven for wildlife with salmon, sea trout, otters and bats all present. No trip to Bodmin Moor would be complete without a visit here. It is especially spectacular after heavy rain.
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The Hurlers are three stone circles on the edge of Bodmin Moor. Legend has it that these were Cornish Hurler players, caught out on a Sunday and punished. They are thought to date to between 2,100 & 1,500 BCE.
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The Cheeswring is a granite tor on the south-east edge of Bodmin Moor. It's a naturally formed structure, although the local legends say it was formed in a contest between giants and saints. Granite from the quarry below was used to clad Tower Bridge.
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Brown Willy at 420 m is the highest point in Cornwall. The rocky granite summit offers great views across Bodmin and over Rough Tor out to sea.
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Beyond the well-known spots, you can explore The Cheesewring, a unique granite formation with panoramic views across Bodmin Moor. Another impressive site is Rough Tor, a striking granite summit offering great views towards the sea or inland to Brown Willy.
Yes, the region is rich in history. The Hurlers Stone Circles are a significant historical natural monument, featuring three Neolithic or Early Bronze Age stone circles arranged in a unique alignment near the village of Minions. Local legends add to their mystique.
Many natural monuments offer expansive vistas. From Brown Willy Summit, the highest point in Cornwall, you'll get unparalleled views across the entirety of Bodmin Moor. The Cheesewring also provides panoramic views stretching all the way to the coast.
Yes, The Hurlers Stone Circles are considered family-friendly. Their historical significance and the open moorland setting make for an engaging visit for all ages, with plenty of space to explore.
The natural monuments around St. Neot are accessible year-round. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for walking and fewer crowds. Summer provides longer daylight hours, while winter can offer dramatic, rugged landscapes, though weather conditions on the moor can be challenging. Always check local forecasts before heading out.
The area around St. Neot is excellent for various outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for gravel biking, road cycling, and running. For example, explore the gravel trails around Halvana Woods, or enjoy road cycling routes like the 'View of Colliford Lake' loop. You can find more details on these activities in the Gravel biking around St. Neot, Road Cycling Routes around St. Neot, and Running Trails around St. Neot guides.
For a slightly less crowded experience, consider Kilmar Tor. This impressive granite tor sits on the rugged edge of Bodmin Moor, offering wonderful views and a sense of wild solitude. Its flanks also reveal remnants of the region's mining history.
The terrain around St. Neot's natural monuments is varied, ranging from rugged moorland paths to ancient woodland trails. Expect granite outcrops, uneven ground, and potentially boggy sections, especially on higher elevations like Brown Willy Summit and Rough Tor. Sturdy footwear is always recommended.
Many of the natural monuments on Bodmin Moor are dog-friendly, offering open spaces for walks. However, it's crucial to keep dogs under close control, especially around livestock (sheep and cattle graze freely on the moor) and ground-nesting birds. Always follow the Countryside Code.
While the natural monuments themselves are often in remote moorland settings, you'll find options in nearby villages. Minions, close to The Hurlers Stone Circles and The Cheesewring, has facilities. St. Neot village itself also offers local pubs and cafes.
The duration varies depending on the monument and your chosen route. A visit to The Hurlers Stone Circles can be a shorter stop, while a hike to Brown Willy Summit or a loop incorporating The Cheesewring might take several hours, especially if you combine them with other tors.
The area is renowned for its granite formations. You'll encounter striking granite tors like The Cheesewring, where slabs are stacked precariously due to millennia of erosion. Other tors like Rough Tor and Kilmar Tor also showcase impressive granite outcrops and rock formations.


Extend your search for the best caves by checking out these guides of the top ones around St. Neot: