Jay's Grave, Archaeological burial site near Manaton, Devon, England
Jay's Grave is a burial site at a crossroads near Hound Tor in Dartmoor National Park. A simple headstone marks the spot, surrounded by heathland and open moorland.
In the 1850s, remains of a young woman who lived in the 18th century were discovered here. She was identified as Mary Jay, and the site later became a known memorial on the moor.
The name recalls a farm servant who lived and worked near Manaton, and her story continues to be told across the moor today. Walkers and visitors still leave fresh flowers on the grave, so the site never feels abandoned.
Access is via small footpaths that cross walking routes through Dartmoor, and the nearest parking is along the road west of Hound Tor. In rain or fog, the ground becomes slippery, so sturdy footwear is recommended.
No one knows who places fresh flowers on the grave every day, and so far no local or visitor has claimed responsibility. The flowers appear in every season, even in winter or bad weather.
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