A view of Corfe Castle in the distance overlooking the surrounding countryside in the morning light, Dorset — Morning light at Corfe Castle, Dorset | © National Trust Images/Jon Bish

Castles and forts in Dorset

Discover castles and forts in Dorset including Iron and Bronze Age burial mounds. Step onto the coastline and find a fort used in training ahead of the D-Day landings along with anti-tank defences and pill boxes. Explore these fascinating areas which are also rich in flora and fauna.

Find a castle in ruins with breathtaking views across Purbeck.

Two visitors walking through the historic ruins at Corfe Castle

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Corfe Castle

There are lots of things to see and do at Corfe Castle. With audio posts dotted around the castle site, you can uncover a colourful history dating back over 1,000 years. There’s family fun to be had on the story trail. And, if you're feeling energetic, why not explore the hills that rise above Corfe Castle, offering views over the surrounding area.

Explore Iron Age hillforts in the countryside including Bronze Age mounds and earthworks all with far-reaching views across Dorset.

An aerial view of Hambledon Hill and the surrounding countryside, Dorset in winter

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Hambledon Hill

From panoramic views to ancient landmarks, there’s much to see and do at Hambledon Hill, an Iron Age hillfort that’s now a national nature reserve.

Visitors at the Badbury Rings at Kingston Lacy, Dorset

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Badbury Rings

Families and dog walkers regularly head to Badbury Rings to explore the ancient Iron Age hillfort, while also enjoying the avenue of beech trees and views of the Dorset countryside.

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Lambert's and Coney's Castle

Discover wide-ranging views over the surrounding countryside and spot wildlife such as kestrels, buzzards and roe deer at the hillforts of Lambert’s and Coney’s Castle, Dorset.

Footpath through woodland at Lewesdon Hill, Dorset

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Lewsdon Hill

The highest point in Dorset, with views between the trees over Devon, Somerset and out to sea. Explore natural slopes and a man-made ditch and rampart. Possibly a place of refuge for Iron Age people in times of threat.

Two visitors walk a dog at Haresfield Beacon and Standish Wood, Gloucestershire.

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Pilsdon Pen

One of Dorset's prominent landmarks, dominated by an Iron Age hillfort. There's a long history at Pilsdon Pen including two Bronze Age burial mounds and remains of roundhouses and pillow mounds.

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Eggardon Hill

Discover an Iron Age hillfort and downland with views across the Marshwood Vale to the coast. A great place for walking, flying kites or simply taking in the extensive views of the surrounding countryside.

View over Blackmore Vale from Hod Hill, Dorset

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Hod Hill

Dorset's largest hillfort, with earthworks from both the Roman and Iron Age, renowned for its downland wildlife. The earthworks from both periods are still visible today.