We use JavaScript to set most of our cookies. Unfortunately JavaScript is not running on your browser, so you cannot change your settings using this page. To control your cookie settings using this page try turning on JavaScript in your browser.

About cookies

We've saved some files called cookies on your device. These cookies are:

  • essential for the site to work
  • to help improve our website by collecting and reporting information on how you use it

We would also like to save some cookies to help:

  • improve our website by measuring website usage
  • remember your settings
Change cookie settings

You've accepted all cookies for this website. You can change your cookie preferences at any time

Tinkinswood Chambered Tomb

A spectacular feat of prehistoric engineering

This Neolithic (New Stone Age) tomb is topped with one of largest capstones in Britain. Measuring a massive 24ft/7m by 15ft/4.5m and weighing around 40 tons (as much as an articulated lorry), how on earth did the builders get it up there? Experts reckon that at least 200 individuals would have been required to hoist it into place. Excavations have uncovered the remains of over 50 people, along with broken pottery and flint tools.

The site is also associated with a number of legends – it’s said that anyone who spent the night here on the evenings before May Day, St John’s Day (23 June) or Midwinter Day would die, go mad or become a poet.

Opening times & prices

Opening times

1st April - 31st March 10am-4pm

Last admission 30 minutes before closing

Closed 24, 25, 26 December and 1 January

Visitor information

Drone policy icon

Drone policy

Please read our policy information about flying drones at Cadw monuments: read the guidance

No smoking icon

No smoking

Smoking is not permitted.

Directions

Google Map
Road: 0.7m (1.2km) S of St Nicholas, off A48, 6m (9.7km) WSW of Cardiff
Rail: Waungron Park 4.5m (7.2km)
Bike: NCN Route No.88 (5.1m/8.2km).

For further information, please contact: Traveline Cymru on 0800 464 0000 or National Rail Enquiries on 03457 48 49 50.

Other places nearby

View all Cadw places on a map
St Lythans Chambered Tomb
Lonely Neolithic tomb with links to Arthurian legend
0.83 miles from Tinkinswood Chambered Tomb
Open
Old Beaupre Castle
Medieval manor with extravagant Tudor additions and status symbols
5.22 miles from Tinkinswood Chambered Tomb
Open
Castell Coch
Fairy-tale castle was a plaything for the rich and powerful
6.26 miles from Tinkinswood Chambered Tomb
Open
View all Cadw places on a map (mobile link)

Unlimited access to Wales' past

Join Cadw for as little as £2.00 a month and gain unlimited access to over 100 historical sites.

Join Cadw today

Enjoy the many benefits of Cadw membership

  • 10% off Cadw gift shops
  • 50% off entry to English Heritage and Historic Scotland sites
  • FREE entry to English Heritage and Historic Scotland on renewal
  • FREE entry to Manx National Heritage properties
  • FREE membership pack including car sticker and full colour map