Alan Simons (Member no: 957)

West Kennett Long Barrow

Standing here in the quiet you can feel a thrum of history, devotion and energy stored forever in the stone still radiating

We recently visited West Kennet Long Barrow. This affecting and impressive tomb and burial mound sits between Avebury and Marlborough and is just a few hundred metres down the road from Silbury Hill. 

After retrieving our wellies from the boot to wade through the flooded spring at the bottom of the hill, it was just a short, not too steep, ramble to the top and the first sight of the forward-facing single-file stones and the long lush green barrow that stretches out behind. 

The tall flat stones in front, which were originally part of sealing off the tomb, now stand watch instead and a hop through a small gap and valley to the left-most one grants you entry to the tomb itself. 

The inner barrow's power and presence can be immediately felt and only grows as you venture further into the dark silence, you're eyes adjusting, ears pricking up and the back of your neck beginning to tingle. 

Small antechambers to the left and right once held many remains, but are now empty apart from the faintest sparkle to the walls and ceiling, and a short path that feels like a tunnel leads to a larger, final chamber. Standing here in the quiet you can feel a thrum of history, devotion and energy stored forever in the stone still radiating and the space's acoustics make a speaking, singing or chanting voice boom with added gravitas.

Back outside, atop the barrow itself makes for a perfect and peaceful place to pause and picnic. The sound of the nearby A4 is muted and replaced by birdsong and tranquil vibes, and this serenity, and the beautiful views of nearby Silbury Hill to the left and The Sanctuary to the right, make it abundantly clear why this spot was first chosen for the long barrow and has remained a very special place to all those who have visited since.