Badbury Rings is one of the finest examples of an Iron Age hill fort in Dorset. It is owned and managed by the National Trust and forms part of the Kingston Lacy Estate. Now, a favourite walking and picnic spot for visitors and local families, this spectacular site has a turbulent history dating back over 6,000 years.

History

If you’re interested in ancient history, Badbury Rings is well worth a visit during your stay at our Dorset caravan and camping park. There are three ramparts on the hillside, which are locally as the ‘three kings’. In times gone by they would have protected villagers from attack. Today, the deep trenches and undulating ground create an impressive spectacle on the hillside, making it popular with landscape photographers.

Unlike neighbouring hill forts the site has not been excavated, however there are signs villagers lived in circular huts in the fort’s interior. Archaeologists believe it was the site of many great battles over the years – including Mount Badon, a notorious battle where King Arthur defeated armies of invaders.

Beautiful countryside walk

Badbury Rings is an idyllic spot for a scenic countryside walk. From the top of the hill visitors can enjoy far reaching views across the surrounding hills in every direction. There are a couple of trails marked by signposts, offering a variety of walks. Sometimes there’s sheep grazing and there’s always beautiful flora and fauna to admire.

Beech Walk is nearby – a two-mile avenue of ancient beech trees which looks beautiful, especially in the autumn light.

Getting to Badbury Rings

Badbury Rings is only 15 minutes’ drive from South Lycthett Manor and can be enjoyed during a trip to Kingston Lacy and White Mill. There is parking at the base of the hill fort which is free for National Trust members. There is a small fee for non-members.

Photo credit: Ian Kirk, Flickr