
Discover more at Badbury Rings
Find out how to get to Badbury Rings, where to park, the things to see and do and more.
Badbury Rings has a history stretching back thousands of years to when Iron Age tribes settled here. While remnants of the Celtic hillfort can be seen today and archaeologists continue to unearth historic findings, Badbury Rings and its neighbouring High Wood with an avenue of beech trees are a peaceful slice of Dorset countryside with sweeping views and good walking trails to explore and enjoy.
There's evidence of life at Badbury Rings dating back to the Bronze Age, more than 3,000 years ago. However, the site is best known as being an Iron Age hillfort.
All that remains of the fort are three ‘rings’ that would have helped defend its residents, and the innermost ring is thought to date from around 500-600BC.
Different tribes lived within the protected hillfort, including a Celtic tribe called the Durotriges, who lived in parts of South West England before the Romans arrived in 43AD.
Close to Badbury Rings is High Wood, another Iron Age site. Archaeologists found the head of a Palaeolithic flint tool here, which is estimated to be between 12,000 and 40,000 years old.
It’s the oldest recorded object in the collection of Kingston Lacy, the nearby country house and National Trust site.
The rings sit at 100 metres above sea level and offer sweeping views across the Dorset countryside as well as wildlife walks. A stroll around the Iron Age hillfort makes a great family day out or walk with the dogs.
Whatever the reason for visiting, help protect this special site by following the Countryside Code.
The rings are often home to livestock, such as sheep and cattle. When this is the case please keep dogs on the lead.
Find out how to get to Badbury Rings, where to park, the things to see and do and more.
The paths and fields around Badbury Rings are great for dog walkers. Find out the best places to walk, plus where and why to keep dogs on the lead or under control.
Help to look after National Trust places by observing a few simple guidelines during your visit and following the Countryside Code.
Immerse yourself in centuries past at one of the castles and forts in our care and discover fascinating tales of previous residents.
Plan a visit to one of the special countryside places in our care and discover the benefits of being in the great outdoors. Pack your walking boots and get ready to explore woodlands, valleys and rivers.
Discover an island, coastline and hidden gems. Explore a castle, cottages and a home inspired by an Italian palace. Dorset has everything you need for a fun filled visit, so start planning your day out.
Explore some of the finest landscapes in our care on coastal paths, accessible trails, woodland walks and everything in between. Find the best places to walk near you.