R e d r u t h   T o w e r

 

A short walk across the rocky summit of Carn Brea Hill from Carn Brea Castle.

Stands the 90ft Redruth Tower, visible for miles around. Carn Brea hill is 816ft high offering visitors to the monument fine views of both the north and south coastlines of Cornwall. The tower appears large from a distance but it seems small when finally approached. The tapering hexagonal column rises from the plinth to a small cross, with a diamond at its centre. It was erected in 1836 by a Mr Joseph Prior of Gwennap to commemorate Plymouth's defence in the peninuslar war by Francis, Lord de Dunstanville and Bassett.

It was once possible to climb the tower through a doorway and passage in the plinth, to a viewing platform below the cross. But the circular staircase has long since collapsed, the vandals have left their marks, and the passageway to the staircase is now guarded by a strong iron gate.

 

The sheer scale of the tower can be seen below:

In the Background of the photo at the eastern end of the summit is Carn Brea Sham castle

Between the tower and the castle is a large block of granite with 5 indentations poking out of the ground. This is locally referred to as the giant's hand. John of Gaunt the giant that was turned to stone before being buried below the castle..

Visiting

Redruth Tower is accessible to the public. However the approach road to the tower is very rocky and care must be taken. Parking is very limited at the end of the lane.

Co-ords   168200 04700 / SW 682 407

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