Tinkinswood and St. Lythans Burial Chambers

Tinkinswood Burial Chamber - image from www.cadw.wales.gov.uk

These ancient archaeological sites are located near the village of St. Nicholas, Cardiff; and were shown to me by my friend Leanne, who knows of more offbeat historic sites than anyone I know! It's not a long walk, but it is definitely worth a look if you like history, Tinkinswood is thought to have been a neolithic burial chamber. You can't see it from the road; you have to look for the layby with the tourism sign and the kissing gate, and walk across the field. Next to the site, there's an information point with a wind-up audio device that tells you the history of the area. There are livestock in the fields nearby, so it's best to keep your dog on a lead.

St. Lythans - image from www.cadw.wales.gov.uk

Further on down the road is another neolithic marvel, St. Lythans. This also has an audio information point, which speculates on how the 6000 year old tomb was built. Well worth bringing your camera (and wellies)! Unfortunately you may not be able to get as close as the other tomb, as usually there are animals grazing here. You and your dog may be lucky though if the field is empty!

http://www.valeofglamorgan.gov.uk/en/enjoying/visit_the_vale/see_and_do/history_and_heritage/tinkinswood_and_st_lythans/tinkinswood_and_st_lythans.aspx

Note that the CADW website has opening times for the chambers and states assistance dogs only. However, both sites are always 'open' and dogs are allowed as long as no livestock are in the fields.