Millennium Beacon

Millennium Beacon

The Millennium Beacon, located in Cumnor, Oxfordshire, is a notable landmark that offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Visitors often commend its breathtaking vistas, making it a favored spot for photography enthusiasts. While the beacon's appearance during daylight may seem unremarkable, its illuminated form at night transforms it into a stunning sight. (wanderlog.com)

Cumnor itself is a village rich in history, with settlements dating back to the 7th century. The name "Cumnor" is believed to derive from "Colmenora," meaning "Cuma's hilltop." The area was once part of the Benedictine Abbey at Abingdon, as confirmed in the Domesday Book of 1086. (users.ox.ac.uk)

The village's economy has traditionally been centered around agriculture, with the manorial system ending in the 19th century. Notably, Cumnor gained literary recognition through the poetry of Matthew Arnold, who enjoyed walking the hillsides. His elegiac poems "The Scholar Gypsy" and "Thyrsis" are both set in the area. (users.ox.ac.uk)

For those interested in local history, St. Michael's Church in Cumnor is a fine example of an almost complete Norman church, with some later additions. The church features a solid-looking tower and a late 12th-century frieze of grotesques under the eaves. Inside, visitors can find a statue of Queen Elizabeth I, originally from Cumnor Place, and numerous carved corbels featuring smiling faces. (berkshirehistory.com)

The Millennium Beacon stands as a testament to the village's rich history and offers a unique vantage point to appreciate the natural beauty of the Oxfordshire countryside.