GUIDESTONE AT WOODA CROSS (NGR SX1379456015)

The guidestone at Wooda Cross, dating from around 1697, is a square granite structure that stands approximately 65 centimeters high. It is situated at the roadside junction of Wooda Cross. The guidestone features inscriptions on three faces that provide directions to Manely, Fowey, and Lostwithiel, with later mileages painted in black lettering beneath the place names. Additionally, there is a benchmark with a metal pin located above it on the Fowey face. The inscriptions read: 'MANALE 1/2; FOWEY StVEE; LOSTL1/2'.

This guidestone was established following Acts of Parliament that allowed Justices in Highway Sessions to require the installation of direction stones or posts at crossroads. It is part of the south coast route depicted on Ogilby's map of 1675. Unlike a turnpike road, this area utilized a post road for mounted post boys before the advent of mail coaches. The guidestone is part of a group of guideposts and milestones along this route, marking a crossing over the River Fowey that avoided the ferry. While it does not indicate distance, later additions have included painted distances in miles.

The guidestone is listed at Grade II for its status as a 17th-century structure, its intact condition, and its group value with other nearby listed waymarkers.