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Notice ; Archaeologist Nick Hanks will hopefully dig here again later in the year. 

There is a new information board at the Melorn Village site to explain the discoveries so far. Many of the finds are also on display in the Centre.

Take a look at www.northcornwallheritage.co.uk for more information


A few years ago two quartz cobbles were exposed when repairs were being undertaken on the visitor path. Research then revealed a reference to Lady Dowager Falmouth having created a garden around the 6th century King Arthur’s Stone, next to the Camel River ‘ some years before the writer saw it’ ( 1754). In 2004 we started to look for clues. More and more cobbles were exposed and in 2005 a 2m circle was revealed in the centre of the cobbles. Within the circle a crescent of nine quartz cobbles complete the mosaic. This would have been visible from a terrace on the cliff above. Immediately behind this circle is a level area in the slight slope of the pavement. To one end of this is a small post hole, which when excavated revealed rusted nails. This suggests the location of a garden seat.
A number of fragments of 18th century bottle glass were found on the pavement surface. Most significantly in a large deposit at the southern end of the site, one had an embossed stamp saying ’N Barriball, White Hart, 1716’. (The N is reversed.). The finding of the bottle on the cobbled surface indicates that the garden may date from the earlier period of Charlotte Boscawen’s (only later Lady Dowager Falmouth) occupation of Worthyvale Manor (c.1700 – 1705 + 1734-1754).
A path lead from a ‘ folly’ on a low mound (a house now occupies the site), via winding paths, rock carved steps and the cliff terraces, one cobbled with quartz with a seat to the centre piece and the reason for the garden being here. In the deepest part of the garden lies (probably once stood) the Arthur Stone in a natural ‘grotto’ beside the River Camel. According to Dr. Tim Mowl, garden historian, the use of an Arthurian feature in this garden is very unusual as it is so early, most such features are in 19th century gardens. She died in 1754 and may not have completed her design. It was soon lost and forgotten.

We have only begun to scrape the surface ( literally) of our very own ‘Secret Garden’. We would love to share this exciting journey of discovery into the past with anyone interested in helping. There is so much to do and if you would like to have a go at digging, washing finds, earth moving etc, please join us and help us learn more about our Lady Falmouth and what inspired her to create a beautiful, romantic garden on the banks of the River Camel 300 years ago.

* Contact Joe on 01840 213947 for more details.

COME AND SEE THE GARDEN AT THE VERY BEGINNING OF ITS RESTORATION AFTER NEARLY 300 YEARS!!

The excavations are currently being carried out by North Cornwall Heritage with Dr Niall Finneran of Winchester University Niall.Finneran@winchester.ac.uk
www.northcornwallheritage.co.uk

We are open seven days a week from 10am – 5pm ( Easter to end of the October half term holiday).

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Visit the Vale of Avalon

The Vale of Avalon, formerly the Arthurian Centre, near Tintagel has something for everyone; a great day out in Cornwall.

For SAT NAV use PL32 9TT.

Open 10am – 5pm – Wednesday to Sunday outside Cornish school holidays.

Open 10am – 5pm – 7 days a week during school holidays.

PLEASE NOTE: CLOSED June 11th

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Pop along to Avalon this weekend and get the kids Pop along to Avalon this weekend and get the kids to complete our nature trail activity sheet!🐦🐛🦋🐝
Tick all the sightings off and win a free goody bag!

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Have you spotted our flag on your way to Tintagel? Have you spotted our flag on your way to Tintagel?👀
Why not come along before or after your visit to Tintagel!

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Will you be lucky enough to spot one of our orchid Will you be lucky enough to spot one of our orchids before their season ends?

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Planning on visiting us over the summer?☀️ Her Planning on visiting us over the summer?☀️
Here is what you can expect at Avalon!

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It's National Cream Tea Day!🍓 Visit us today an It's National Cream Tea Day!🍓
Visit us today and over the weekend for a yummy homemade scone with jam (first) and cream!😉

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Looking for something a little different in Cornwa Looking for something a little different in Cornwall with the kids?
Why not pop down and visit The Vale of Avalon! 🥳
Come for a wander around our historical site, tell stories and use your imagination! Not to mention our lovely homemade bakes you can’t resist!

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The weather is looking fine for a visit this weeke The weather is looking fine for a visit this weekend!☀️

If dads like a BBQ maybe they’ll also enjoy one of Sam’s inspired cupcakes! Sweet kebab anyone?🍰

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Looking to take Dad somewhere for Father's Day? Co Looking to take Dad somewhere for Father's Day?
Come explore our historic grounds for a Father's Day outing! 👨‍👩‍👦‍👦
We are giving FREE ENTRY to dads when they bring one child or more (Sunday only)! 

- Why not bring a ball for a kick around with our new football goal post. ⚽️
- Have a go at completing our nature trail - How many real animals and plants can you find as well as the checklist pictures? 🦋🐛
- Bring a picnic or try our homemade goods from our cafe!🍰

We hope to see you on this special day!

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