Barbury Castle

Location

About

Barbury Castle is an impressive and historic landmark located in Wiltshire, England. It is an Iron Age hill fort that has been a significant site for more than 5,000 years. This remarkable landmark is a popular tourist destination for visitors from around the world, offering a unique opportunity to explore the history of England.

As you approach Barbury Castle, the first thing you notice is its impressive size. The hill fort is a large circular earthwork that covers an area of 11.8 hectares. The walls of the fort are constructed of chalk and stand at an impressive height of 3.5 meters. The site is surrounded by a deep ditch that would have been a formidable obstacle for any would-be attackers.

Visitors to Barbury Castle will be struck by the incredible views that can be seen from the top of the fort. The site is located on a hill that offers sweeping views of the surrounding countryside. On a clear day, visitors can see as far as the distant hills of the Cotswolds.

The site is rich in history and offers visitors the chance to explore its many secrets. Archaeological evidence shows that Barbury Castle was first occupied during the Bronze Age, around 2000 BC. It was later occupied by the Celts during the Iron Age, who used it as a defensive fortification.

During the Roman era, the fort was used as a signal station, with fires being lit on the hill to warn of approaching invaders. In the Middle Ages, the fort was used as a hunting lodge by the kings of England, and during the Civil War, it was used as a strategic location by both Royalist and Parliamentary forces.

Today, visitors to Barbury Castle can explore the site and learn more about its fascinating history. There are several walking trails that allow visitors to explore the earthworks and learn more about the fort's history. There is also a visitor center that provides information about the site's history and the people who once lived there.

Barbury Castle is a popular destination for families, history buffs, and anyone who enjoys exploring the great outdoors. The site is open year-round, and admission is free. There are picnic areas and benches where visitors can relax and take in the beautiful views.

In conclusion, Barbury Castle is a remarkable and historic landmark that offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the history of England. Whether you are a history buff or simply enjoy exploring the great outdoors, Barbury Castle is well worth a visit. With its impressive size, beautiful views, and rich history, it is easy to see why this site is such a popular destination for tourists from around the world.

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Things to do nearby

Barbury Castle is an ancient hill fort located in the picturesque county of Wiltshire in the south-west of England. The fort is believed to have been constructed around 700 BC and was occupied until the Roman invasion of Britain in AD 43. Today, Barbury Castle is a popular destination for tourists interested in history and archaeology, as well as those who simply enjoy hiking and exploring the great outdoors. Here are some of the best places to visit and things to do nearby Barbury Castle:

1. Walk the Ridgeway National Trail
The Ridgeway National Trail is a 140-kilometer-long walking path that stretches from Ivinghoe Beacon in Buckinghamshire to Avebury in Wiltshire. Barbury Castle is located near the western end of the trail and is a popular starting point for hikers. The trail offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside and passes through a number of historic sites, including Avebury Stone Circle and Uffington White Horse.

2. Visit Avebury Stone Circle
Avebury Stone Circle is a Neolithic monument located near the village of Avebury, about 16 kilometers from Barbury Castle. The monument consists of a large circle of standing stones, which are believed to have been erected around 2500 BC. The site is surrounded by a series of smaller stone circles and burial mounds, making it one of the most important and impressive prehistoric sites in Britain.

3. Explore the Wiltshire Museum
Located in the historic town of Devizes, about 14 kilometers from Barbury Castle, the Wiltshire Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in the history and archaeology of the local area. The museum's collection includes artifacts from the Stone Age, Bronze Age, Iron Age, Roman period, and Anglo-Saxon period, as well as exhibits on the history of Wiltshire's towns and villages.

4. Discover the West Kennet Long Barrow
The West Kennet Long Barrow is a Neolithic burial mound located near Avebury, about 16 kilometers from Barbury Castle. The mound was constructed around 3600 BC and is one of the largest and best-preserved examples of its kind in Britain. Visitors can explore the interior of the mound, which features a series of chambers and passageways, and learn about the burial practices of Britain's prehistoric peoples.

5. Enjoy a pint at the White Horse Inn
Located in the village of Compton Bassett, about 8 kilometers from Barbury Castle, the White Horse Inn is a traditional English pub with a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The pub serves a selection of local beers and ciders, as well as a menu of classic pub dishes made with locally sourced ingredients.

6. Visit the Swindon and Cricklade Railway
The Swindon and Cricklade Railway is a heritage railway located near the town of Swindon, about 10 kilometers from Barbury Castle. The railway offers a scenic journey through the Wiltshire countryside aboard a vintage steam or diesel locomotive. Visitors can also explore the railway's museum, which features exhibits on the history of the local railway industry.

7. See the wildlife at Lydiard Park
Lydiard Park is a beautiful country estate located near the town of Swindon, about 12 kilometers from Barbury Castle. The estate features a large lake, a walled garden, and a variety of walking trails through wooded areas and open meadows. Visitors can also see a range of wildlife in the park, including deer, birds, and butterflies.

In conclusion, Barbury Castle and the surrounding area offer a wealth of attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy. Whether you're interested in history, archaeology, hiking, or just relaxing in a beautiful countryside setting, there's something