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Meridiela.

The Barn

A flat-topped basalt headland closing St Helena's northeastern corner.

Updated 3 September 2026

WhereSaint Helena
Nearest cityJamestown
Best seasonYear round
Time to allowHalf a day
Getting thereBeyond Deadwood Plain in the northeast; walking route across the saddle
EntryFree

The Barn is the great flat-topped block of basalt that closes St Helena's northeastern corner, rising some seven hundred metres straight out of the sea with sheer sides on three of them, and it is the first thing ships see coming from the north. It is barren, wind-scoured and largely bare rock. A route runs across the saddle from Deadwood to a viewpoint, and seabirds nest on the cliffs below.

Highlights

  • The flat top - the level summit block above sheer sides.
  • The sea cliffs - rock falling some seven hundred metres to the water.
  • The seabird ledges - the nesting sites on the faces below.
  • The saddle route - the walk across from Deadwood Plain.

When to go

Year round; the headland is exposed and windy in all seasons. Seabirds nest through much of the year. Mist can close the saddle.

Good to know

The ground is loose and the drops are sheer and unfenced. Wind on the saddle is severe and can make the route unsafe. There is no shade or water.

Nearby

Deadwood Plain is southwest, and Millennium Forest is south.

What to pack for The Barn

Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.

  • Broken-in walking shoes or boots - Grip and ankle support matter more than looks; never hike in brand-new boots. Find on Amazon
  • Layers + a waterproof shell - Mountain weather turns fast; a packable rain jacket saves the day. Find on Amazon
  • Daypack with rain cover - 20-30 litres holds water, snacks, layers and a first-aid kit. Find on Amazon
  • Offline maps + a power bank - Download the trail before you lose signal; carry backup charge. Find on Amazon

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All packing kits

Plan your trip

Where to start if The Barn is going on the list.

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Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.

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