Milestone At Paynters Cross

The milestone at Paynter's Cross is a granite structure dating from around 1764. It features a rectangular ashlar post with a rounded head and has incised serif lettering indicating the distance to Callington as 4 1/2 C. A small benchmark pin is located on the top of the stone.

This milestone is part of a series established by the Callington Turnpike Trust, which was created by an Act of Parliament in 1764. The Act outlined eight routes, including this one leading to Callington from Paynter's Cross to the south. Notably, the distances on this route are measured in half miles, likely to align with milestones set up by the Saltash Turnpike Trust, established in 1761.

Milestones are significant as they are among the few remaining physical reminders of historic road use, illustrating the standardization of roads and the introduction of turnpikes. This particular stone is intact and remains in its original location. It also has group value with other listed mileposts along this route and with a nearby group of 18th and 19th-century cottages, warranting its inclusion on the heritage list.