Din Garan
c700BC-100AD
Cliff castles like Black Head were built during the Iron Age for a range of purposes, which likely changed over time.
1959
Black Head Cliff Castle was listed as a Scheduled Monument in 1959, protecting the site for future generations to learn from and enjoy.
1997
In 1997, a commemorative granite monolith was installed near to the site dedicated to poet and historian A.L. Rowse.
Black Head Cliff Castle sits on the south coast, protected by steep natural cliffs on three sides which make the interior practically inaccessible from the sea. The interior is connected to the mainland by only a narrow strip of land with at least three parallel rampart banks and ditches defending it. A causeway through the centre is probably the original entrance, and there are traces of low banks in the interior and at least one stone hut circle to the NNW.
The area around Black Head is likely to contain archaeological and environmental evidence of its construction, strategic/territorial significance, and perhaps also the social organisation of trade, agricultural and domestic practices.
The red brick rifle range was built on the site in the 1880’s and has been modified heavily through the 20th century. The metal targets which still stand could be raised and lowered on a system of pulleys which may have been electrified before the site was closed.
Black Head Cliff Castle was part of Cornwall National Landscape’s A Monumental Improvement Project, which aimed to ensure that 40 scheduled monuments across Cornwall National Landscape were better protected, identified and enjoyed by a wider range of people. Between 2022 – 2025, the Project delivered conservation repairs, installed new heritage interpretation signage, ran a range of community volunteering events and developed new website resources. The Project was primarily funded thanks to The National Lottery Heritage Fund, with support from our other partners – Cornwall Council, Historic England, The National Trust, Cornwall Heritage Trust and Cornwall Archaeological Society.
Cornish cliff castles have been the subject of comparatively little study, with relatively few examples being the subject of modern excavation. The significant scale of the defensive banks and ditches and size of the interior suggest a site of high status. Black Head is one of 65 possible (29 certain) cliff castles in Cornwall. Although cliff castles are present around the entire coast of Britain, Cornwall has the second highest concentration of cliff castles after Wales and almost all excavated examples have evidence of settlement on the interior, with roundhouses and associated building platforms identified.
Interpretations of cliff castles have traditionally focussed on militaristic functions and their construction has been attributed as a response to coastal threat. More recent interpretation of cliff castles have been much more varied, and recognised that their purpose and function could have changed over time.
Some popular suggested interpretations include:
The most accurate interpretation could be a mix of several of the above suggestions, or something else entirely. It is possible that archaeologists will continue to debate their function for a long time to come and future excavations may yet shed light on how the sites were built and used.
Video Gallery
Explore the Iron Age cliff castle from the comfort of your own home with our 3D model, created by merging lots of photos taken of the site from all angles.
Explore the Rifle Butts up close safely with this 3D model of the site.
Black Head Cliff Castle is a brilliant example of an Iron Age promontory fort, tucked away on a dramatic clifftop with sheer drops on three sides. These natural cliffs made the site easy to defend from the sea, while three man-made rampart banks and ditches helped guard the narrow landward entrance. A gap through the middle, thought to be the original way in, shows how cleverly the people who lived here used both nature and skill to stay safe.
Inside the fort, low earth banks and a stone hut circle give clues about life nearly 2,000 years ago. The site could hold all sorts of archaeological treasures from remains of buildings to tiny traces of what people grew, traded, or cooked. Its location between two big bays might also tell us more about Iron Age travel, farming and life on the Cornish coast. Though a rifle range was added in the 1880s, much of the ancient landscape survives, making this a special place to protect and learn from.
Black Head’s wild clifftop setting is home to all sorts of plants and animals that love the salty air and open space. The steep slopes are dotted with wind-blown grasses, hardy wildflowers, and low-growing shrubs like gorse and heather, which provide food and shelter for insects and nesting birds. In spring and summer, the headland comes alive with colour and buzzing life, perfect for pollinators like bees and butterflies.
Look closely, and you might spot kestrels hovering overhead or hear the chatter of stonechats in the scrub. Down on the cliffs, seabirds such as fulmars and shags nest on the ledges, while grey seals can sometimes be seen bobbing in the waves below. The mix of Iron Age archaeology and rich wildlife makes Black Head a unique place where history and nature sit side by side.
Visitors can help protect Black Head by sticking to the paths, keeping dogs on leads near wildlife and leaving no trace behind. Staying off the ramparts and earthworks helps prevent damage to these fragile ancient features and being mindful of nesting birds and other wildlife keeps the headland a safe haven for nature. Every careful visit helps keep this special place thriving for both future explorers and the creatures that call it home.
Maintenance of Black Head Cliff Castle takes careful balance. The site is owned and managed by the National Trust and unfortunately the biggest threat to the monument is coastal erosion. The steep cliffs are naturally unstable in places, and storms and heavy rain can wear away paths and archaeological features. The ranger team here periodically clear vegetation which threatens to obscure the rampart and other archaeological and historical features. In 2023 the Monumental Improvement project cleared the overgrown rifle range of vegetation to reveal the metalwork which once operated the targets.
The project also commissioned a structural engineers report which has given us a greater understanding of the construction and the threats to the rifle range.
By keeping to the paths, visitors can contribute to the ongoing care of the monument, ensuring Black Head can be enjoyed by generations to come.
Black Head Cliff Castle becomes Din Garan in Cornish. It means din – fort, garan – crane.
Grid Ref: SX 26296 73871
Find with what3words: working.disband.clubbing
Please visit the National Trust website for important visitor information here
Plan your visit with essential details on transport and parking options, available facilities, route descriptions and accessibility information to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience at any of our historical monuments.
When enjoying the countryside, it’s important to follow the Countryside Code to protect nature and preserve its beauty for everyone. This includes simple, respectful actions like not littering, always take your rubbish home or dispose of it properly in bins. Stick to designated paths to avoid damaging crops or wildlife habitats, and keep gates and property as you find them, whether open or closed. Be mindful of livestock and wildlife by keeping dogs under control and not disturbing animals. By following these guidelines, you contribute to the protection of the environment and ensure that others can enjoy the countryside as well.
Access to Black Head is via a coast path with uneven ground, narrow sections and steep slopes, which may be challenging for some visitors. There are no facilities on site, so sturdy footwear and care on the cliff-edge paths are essential.
There are no visitor facilities at Black Head, so it’s best to come prepared with everything you need.
Parking is available at Trenarren car park, with a walk along the coast path needed to reach the site.
You can help care for Black Head by joining our team of volunteers. From hands-on conservation work to supporting educational visits and local events, there are lots of ways to get involved. It’s a great chance to learn new skills, meet like-minded people and play a part in protecting this special place. Whether you’re into wildlife, history, or just love being outside, we’d love to hear from you.
Cornwall National Landscape is a non-profit organisation that conserves the unique landscapes, wildlife, and cultural heritage of Cornwall. Volunteering for the protected landscape provides a rewarding experience of giving back to the community and preserving the Cornwall's natural beauty.
Discover a wealth of knowledge in our Resources section, where you can download detailed research documents, reports, and source material compiled by our archaeology team to enhance your understanding of the site.
Results of a Geophysical Survey
