The Longstone (Isle of Wight)
The Longstone (Isle of Wight)
Highlight • Natural Monument
The Longstone (Isle of Wight)
Hiking
4.9
(47)
Running
5.0
(1)
The Longstone is a remarkable megalithic monument nestled near the charming village of Mottistone on the south west coast of the Isle of Wight, United Kingdom. Standing at an elevation of approximately 116 metres, this ancient site is the island's only megalithic structure, serving as the remains of a 6,000-year-old Neolithic communal long barrow. It offers a unique blend of deep history and natural beauty, making it a significant landmark within the Mottistone Estate.
Visitors are consistently captivated by the profound sense of history and the intriguing local folklore surrounding The Longstone. Many hikers enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding countryside and the English Channel, finding the site an ideal spot for a picnic. The tangible connection to ancient burial practices and the legendary tale of St. Catherine and the Devil add a layer of mystique that makes this monument truly special.
Before setting out, it's helpful to know that The Longstone is managed by the National Trust and is freely accessible to the public. While the walk to the monument involves some gentle uphill sections, the terrain across the chalk downs, heathland, and farmland is generally manageable for various fitness levels. Parking is conveniently available at nearby Mottistone Manor, with well-marked footpaths leading directly to the site.
The Longstone is a fantastic destination for family-friendly walks throughout the year, though May and June are particularly special for spotting the rare Glanville fritillary butterfly. Beyond exploring the ancient stones, visitors can enjoy various activities such as picnicking amidst the picturesque surroundings or simply soaking in the peaceful atmosphere. The site is also known as a place where people celebrate solstices and equinoxes, highlighting its enduring spiritual significance.
One of the most vivid visitor experiences revolves around the local legend: St. Catherine is said to have thrown the larger, upright stone from St. Catherine's Down, while the Devil's smaller stone lies recumbent alongside it, often used as a convenient picnic bench. Hikers also marvel at the thought of the 6,000-year-old Neolithic burial chamber, where bodies were once laid out before their bones were interred, offering a powerful glimpse into prehistoric life on the Isle of Wight.
Whether you're interested in ancient history, local legends, or simply a pleasant outdoor excursion, The Longstone offers a rewarding experience. You can discover numerous walking routes through the beautiful Mottistone Estate, exploring the natural features and viewpoints near The Longstone. To plan your adventure and find the perfect trail for your family, explore the many options available on komoot, catering to various preferences for distance and difficulty.
This Highlight is in a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Tips
March 14, 2019
Hiking
March 19, 2019
Hiking
November 13, 2023
Running
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Nearby routes
Best routes near The Longstone (Isle of Wight)
5.0
(5)
41
hikers
20.2km
05:40
410m
410m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(5)
33
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(4)
20
hikers
12.7km
03:27
170m
170m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Elevation 120 m
Weather
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Thursday 21 May
22°C
14°C
0 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 13.0 km/h
Most visited during
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the historical significance of The Longstone beyond its Neolithic origins?
While primarily known as a 6,000-year-old Neolithic communal long barrow, The Longstone also holds significance from later periods. In Saxon times, it is believed to have served as a "moot stone," a crucial meeting place for judicial and administrative affairs. This historical role may even be the origin of the nearby village's name, Mottistone.
Are there specific walking routes recommended for families with young children at The Longstone?
Yes, The Longstone is integrated into the National Trust's Mottistone Estate, offering various footpaths. For families with young children, look for routes described as "gentle rambles" or those that stay closer to Mottistone Manor, where parking is available. These paths typically offer manageable terrain and an interesting endpoint at the stones, often with lovely views.
Where is the best place to park when visiting The Longstone?
Convenient parking is available at nearby Mottistone Manor. From there, well-marked footpaths lead directly to The Longstone. It's advisable to arrive earlier in the day, especially during peak season, as parking can fill up.
What is the terrain like on the trails leading to The Longstone, and what is the general difficulty?
The terrain around The Longstone primarily consists of chalk downs, heathland, and farmland. While some walks involve gentle uphill sections, the paths are generally considered manageable for various fitness levels. The overall difficulty is often described as easy to intermediate, making it suitable for a pleasant outdoor excursion.
Is The Longstone (Isle of Wight) accessible via public transport?
While The Longstone is somewhat rural, public transport options to the general Mottistone area exist, though they may require some walking to reach the monument itself. For detailed and up-to-date public transport information, it's best to check local bus schedules or the Visit Isle of Wight website.
Are dogs allowed on the trails around The Longstone and the Mottistone Estate?
Generally, dogs are welcome on the public footpaths across the Mottistone Estate, including those leading to The Longstone. However, it is crucial to keep dogs on a lead, especially in areas with livestock or ground-nesting birds, and to always clean up after them to preserve the natural environment.
What are some notable natural features or viewpoints near The Longstone?
The Longstone is situated on a south-facing slope, offering picturesque views of the surrounding countryside and the English Channel. The wider Mottistone Estate features diverse landscapes, including chalk downs and heathland. Hikers can often spot wildlife, and during May and June, the area is particularly known for the rare Glanville fritillary butterfly.
Are there any cafes or pubs nearby for refreshments after a visit to The Longstone?
The Longstone is located near the village of Mottistone. While the immediate vicinity of the monument is natural and undeveloped, you can typically find cafes or pubs in Mottistone or other nearby villages on the Isle of Wight for refreshments. It's a good idea to check opening times in advance.
What is the best time of year to visit The Longstone for specific experiences, beyond just good weather?
Beyond general good weather, May and June are particularly special for spotting the rare Glanville fritillary butterfly. The site also holds enduring spiritual significance, with people known to celebrate solstices and equinoxes there, offering a unique cultural experience if you visit during those times.
What activities are available for children near The Longstone?
Children can enjoy exploring the ancient stones and learning about their 6,000-year-old history and local legends. The surrounding Mottistone Estate offers numerous footpaths for family walks, opportunities for wildlife spotting, and plenty of space for a picnic. The tangible connection to history and nature provides an engaging learning opportunity for young visitors.
What is the legend associated with The Longstone?
A popular local legend explains the two stones as the result of a contest between St. Catherine and the Devil. St. Catherine supposedly threw the larger, upright stone from the nearby St. Catherine's Down, while the Devil's smaller stone fell short and lies recumbent alongside it. This tale symbolizes the triumph of good over evil and adds a mystical element to the site.