Uffington Castle - White Horse & Dragon Hill

Location

About

Uffington Castle, White Horse, and Dragon Hill are historical landmarks located in the Oxfordshire countryside of England. This breathtaking site has been attracting tourists from around the world for centuries, and it's easy to see why.

The Uffington Castle is an Iron Age hill fort located on top of a chalk hill, offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The fort dates back to 500 BC and was occupied until the Roman invasion of Britain. The site is a perfect place for history lovers to explore and learn about the ancient past of England. The site is open to the public, and visitors can walk around the fort walls and discover the ancient history of the site.

The Uffington White Horse is another significant attraction located nearby. The horse is a large figure of a horse cut into the chalk hillside, measuring 110 meters long and 50 meters high. The figure is over 3,000 years old and has been maintained and re-chalked over the years to preserve its appearance. The white horse is visible from miles away and offers a stunning view of the surrounding countryside. Visitors can hike up to the horse and get an up-close look at this remarkable piece of history.

Dragon Hill is another historical landmark located nearby. The hill is named after the legend that it was the site where St George, the patron saint of England, slayed the dragon. Visitors can climb the hill and enjoy the panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

The Uffington Castle, White Horse, and Dragon Hill are not only historical landmarks, but they are also a significant part of English culture and folklore. The site has inspired writers, poets, and artists throughout history. It is said that JRR Tolkien, the author of The Lord of the Rings, was inspired by the site when creating Middle Earth.

Visiting Uffington Castle, White Horse, and Dragon Hill is a must-do experience for anyone visiting England. The site offers a unique opportunity to explore ancient history and folklore and to appreciate the natural beauty of the Oxfordshire countryside. Visitors can enjoy a picnic on the hillside, take a hike around the fort walls, or simply enjoy the panoramic views from the top of the hill. The site is a perfect place for families, history lovers, and nature enthusiasts alike.

In conclusion, Uffington Castle, White Horse, and Dragon Hill are historical landmarks that offer a unique and unforgettable experience for tourists visiting England. The site is steeped in ancient history and folklore, and it offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. A visit to Uffington Castle, White Horse, and Dragon Hill is a must-do experience for anyone interested in exploring the rich history and natural beauty of England.

Gallery

Things to do nearby

Uffington Castle, the White Horse, and Dragon Hill are three of the most iconic landmarks in England, located in the picturesque countryside of Oxfordshire. Visitors to this area can expect stunning scenery, ancient history, and a plethora of activities and attractions to explore. Whether you're a history buff, nature lover, or just looking for a day out in the countryside, there's something for everyone nearby Uffington Castle, White Horse & Dragon Hill.

First up, the Uffington Castle, a large Iron Age hill fort that stands atop a steep chalk hill, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Visitors can explore the ramparts and ditches of the fort, and learn about the site's history and significance from the interpretive panels. Walking around the hillfort's circumference takes about 40 minutes and is an excellent way to stretch your legs and take in the scenery. For those who want to learn more about the area's history, there are guided tours available with knowledgeable local experts.

Next, the famous Uffington White Horse, a prehistoric figure that has been carved into the hillside using the natural chalk. The horse is over 3,000 years old and measures 110 meters long, making it one of the oldest and largest hill figures in England. Visitors can view the White Horse from various points along the hillside, or for a closer look, hike up to the figure itself. The walk takes around 30 minutes and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Finally, the mysterious Dragon Hill, located at the foot of the White Horse, is a small hill with a curious myth attached to it. According to legend, it is the spot where St George, the patron saint of England, slayed a dragon. Visitors can explore the hill and marvel at the stunning views of the surrounding countryside. It is said that if you roll down the hill, you'll be rewarded with good luck, although it's not for the faint-hearted!

Apart from the three iconic landmarks, there are other things to do nearby, such as exploring the nearby village of Uffington, where you can visit the charming St. Mary's Church, a Grade I listed building that dates back to the 12th century. The village is also home to a couple of traditional pubs, where you can grab a bite to eat or a refreshing drink after a long day exploring.

If you're looking for a more active way to explore the area, there are plenty of walking and cycling routes in the surrounding countryside. The Ridgeway, a National Trail that runs along the chalk ridge that forms the backbone of southern England, passes through the area and offers some of the most stunning views of the region. There are also several nature reserves nearby, such as the nearby National Trust property, White Horse Hill, where you can enjoy bird watching and other wildlife spotting opportunities.

In conclusion, the Uffington Castle, White Horse, and Dragon Hill are iconic landmarks that offer visitors a unique insight into England's ancient history and stunning natural beauty. With plenty of activities and attractions to explore in the surrounding countryside, visitors to the area will undoubtedly leave with a newfound appreciation for this beautiful part of England.