Basset Monument
50° 13' 14" N 5° 14' 54" WBasset Monument is a prominent landmark standing over the town of Camborne.
The monument was built in 1836, standing 90ft-high this granite column was a tribute to Francis Basset, philanthropist and member of the most important mining family in the area at the time.
Further along the ridge you’ll see Carn Brea Castle, sitting on huge, uncut boulders which is also great to explore and take in the views. On a really clear day you can see both coasts – and almost everything in between.
You can reach Carn Brea easily from Camborne on bike or by foot – or even on horseback if you prefer – simply follow the Great Flat Lode Trail. There’s a carpark near the top, too, but driving there is a little trickier with the road up to the Carn being quite bumpy, so drive slowly.
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- Dogs allowed (All year)
- 5 minute walk from carpark
History of Basset Monument
The Basset Monument is a historic landmark located in the village of Carnkie, Cornwall, England. The monument was built in the early 19th century to commemorate the life and achievements of Francis Basset, a prominent Cornish landowner and politician.
Francis Basset was born in 1757 and inherited the family’s mining and agricultural interests at a young age. He went on to become one of the richest and most influential men in Cornwall, and served as a Member of Parliament for Truro for over 30 years.
In addition to his political and business interests, Basset was also a philanthropist and supporter of the arts. He funded the construction of a number of buildings in Cornwall, including the Royal Cornwall Polytechnic Society in Falmouth.
The Basset Monument was constructed in 1836, several years after Basset’s death, and stands at a height of 90 feet. The monument is built from local granite, and features a statue of Basset at the top.
Today, the Basset Monument is a popular tourist attraction and is considered to be one of the most important landmarks in Cornwall. The monument stands as a testament to the life and achievements of Francis Basset, and is a reminder of the important role that he played in the development of Cornwall and its economy.
Travel / Parking information for Basset Monument
Directions to Basset Monument
Directions from Redruth to the Basset Monument on Carn Brea: On Foot: The Basset Monument is a popular walking spot. It's a steep but relatively short climb to the monument from the base of Carn Brea. Walking can take between 30 minutes to an hour depending on your starting point in Redruth and your pace. Public Transport: As of my last update, public buses operate in the area, but you would still need to walk up Carn Brea to reach the monument. Check local bus timetables for the most current information. Tips: Wear comfortable shoes if you're walking. The top provides panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, so you might want to bring a camera. Check the weather before heading out. The area can be windy and misty.
Parking for Basset Monument
Head southeast on Falmouth Rd/A393 toward Chapel St. At the roundabout, take the 1st exit onto Sandy Ln. Turn left onto Carnkie. There is a narrow and bumpy track that leads to the top of Carn Brea, there are limited laybys to park at the summit, near to the monument itself.