Pendeen Vau

Pendeen Vau is an Iron Age underground structure that extends roughly 17 meters into the earth with a downward-sloping main passage featuring stepped roof slabs. The entrance opens into this tunnel system, which sits in what was once a settled area.

This underground structure dates to the late Bronze Age, roughly 3000 years ago, and was connected to a settlement that once stood near the present-day lighthouse. The construction shows how people created functional spaces beneath the earth during that period.

The site is connected to William Borlase, a scholar who grew up at the nearby manor and dedicated himself to studying Cornish archaeological structures. His work shaped how people understood these underground passages in the region.

Access to this site requires permission from the owners of the nearby Pendeen Manor Farm. It is wise to arrange a visit beforehand and clarify the conditions for exploring the underground passages.

At the end of the main passage, the structure splits into two branches, with one showing signs of partial roof damage over the centuries. This branching reveals clues about how the spaces were originally used.

GPS coordinates: 50.16200,-5.66470

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:15