The ‘Black-headed’ stone
Maen Penddu, the ‘Black-headed Stone’, stands in a magnificent location above the village of Henryd, near Conwy, where it commands stunning views of the Great Orme and surrounding coastline. The standing stone is around 2 metres (6 feet) tall and is located a short distance from a small stone circle, Cefn Maen Amor, thought to be the remains of a funerary cairn. The two monuments may be related and both date to the 2nd millennium BC. The stone has a smooth, rounded appearance in contrast with the angular rocks nearby, suggesting that it was selected and brought from elsewhere. There is a broad groove in the east side that may have been produced when it was being transported.
The stone has been incorporated in the north-west end of a low stone bank, which curves gradually towards the stream. The bank forms part of an enclosure associated with a medieval long hut.
Parking at Llangelynnin old church above Henryd off the B5106
Conwy - 4 miles
Nearest bus stop a Hendre Cottage, Henryd Road - 2 miles
Cycle route Conwy to Betws y Coed nearby
Follow track for approx 1/2 mile west from Llangelynnin old church.
Uplands footpaths. Walking boots recommended. OS map required. Dogs must be on lead.
Full Figure Grid Reference - Maen Penddu: SH739735, Cefn Maen Amor Stone Circle: SH 738735 OS Landranger map sheet: 115