Chysauster Ancient Village

This remarkable site consists of a well-preserved village with stone-walled huts and an extensive system of field boundaries, offering insights into the daily lives and culture of its former inhabitants.

The village, which is estimated to date back to the late Iron Age, around 200 BC, likely continued to thrive until the Roman conquest of Britain in the first century AD. It was originally occupied by the Celts, a people with a distinctive Iron Age culture and language. The village was built on a south-facing slope, a strategic location that allowed for ample sunlight and protection from harsh weather.

The layout of the village is a testament to the agricultural practices of its time, with its well-organised field system. The village’s inhabitants primarily engaged in farming and animal husbandry, making use of the land’s fertile soil and mild climate. The stone-walled huts, or courtyard houses, were the homes of the villagers and reflected advanced construction techniques for the time.

What to see at Chysauster Ancient Village

The key attractions at Chysauster Ancient Village include the well-preserved stone-walled huts, known as courtyard houses, which served as the homes for the village’s inhabitants. These huts are remarkable remnants of the past, allowing you to step inside and gain insights into Iron Age living conditions and architectural styles.

The village’s agricultural practices are showcased through an intricate field system that offers a glimpse into the cultivation of crops and animal husbandry during that era.

The site features information boards that provide historical context and details about the village’s significance.

Visiting Chysauster Ancient Village

Chysauster Ancient Village is in the countryside around 5.25km (3¼ miles) north of Penzance. It is around a 12-minute drive from Penzance; however, despite being so close to Penzance, it is not accessible by public transport.

The site is open between April and early November. Admission is free of charge for English Heritage members and holders of a valid English Heritage Overseas Visitor Pass.

Visitor facilities include a gift shop, which also sells cold drinks.

Allow 1–2 hours for your visit to Chysauster Ancient Village.