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Basset Monument

Hidden Gem

Terrain:

Activities

Best Time To Visit

Moorland, Cliffs

Walking, Photography

Spring to Autumn

Photo: Rod Allday via Geograph.org.uk

The Basset Monument is a tall granite cross standing on the summit ridge of Carn Brea, the rocky hill between Redruth and Camborne in Cornwall. Set on a stepped, tapering base, it rises around twenty-seven metres and can be seen for miles across the old mining country below. It was put up in 1836 by...

10

Parking nearby

1

Food Spots nearby

3

Staycations nearby

Parking:

Food:

Staycations:

5 day, 5 overnight

Carn Brea Castle Restaurant​

Tehidy Cabins, Polgine Lane House, Woodcocks Roost Retreat

Nearest Hidden Gem 3

FAQ's/Things to Know

Where is Basset Monument?
Cornwall hosts this imposing landmark high on the granite ridge of Carn Brea. Walkers can easily see the massive structure towering over the old mining landscape of Camborne and Redruth.

What type of place is Basset Monument?
Basset Monument is a historic stone column standing on a hill in Cornwall.

When is the best time to visit Basset Monument?
Spring to autumn offers the most pleasant conditions for walking up the exposed, windswept ridge. Clear days provide phenomenal visibility across the entire county towards both coastlines.

What can you do at Basset Monument?
Hiking up the steep hill path treats you to incredible views over the historic mining heartland. Adventurous folk also like to clamber inside the hollow column to tackle the narrow stone squeeze.

How long should I spend at Basset Monument?
Allocating roughly an hour gives you plenty of time to reach the summit and admire the scenery. Longer visits allow for a proper exploration of the adjacent historic castle and surrounding trails.

Where do I park at Basset Monument?
Vehicles can use ten spaces nearby, split into five day and five overnight spots. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Where can I eat near Basset Monument?
Carn Brea Castle Restaurant serves as the lone eatery in the immediate vicinity. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Where can I stay near Basset Monument?
Tehidy Cabins, Polgine Lane House, and Woodcocks Roost Retreat provide three choices for an overnight stay close by. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

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Last Updated:

02 July 2026

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