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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.

Castles in Dorset

Find a castle in ruins with breathtaking views across Purbeck.

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.

A group of people of all ages having a tour of castle ruins

Hillforts in Dorset

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

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.

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

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.

Visitors at the Badbury Rings at Kingston Lacy, Dorset

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.

View from Lambert's Castle Hill, Dorset

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.

Beaminster, Dorset

Footpath through woodland at Lewesdon Hill, Dorset

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.

Beaminster, Dorset

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

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.

Bridport, Dorset

Eggardon Hill

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.

Nr Blandford Forum, Dorset

Roman camp earthworks at Hod Hill, Dorset
An early morning view across Corfe Castle, Dorset in winter

Discover more in Dorset

Home to everything from an island, ancient coasts and hidden gems to a castle and a house inspired by an Italian palace.