Boosting Hod Hill's archaeology and wildlife

Conservation work through the year

The work carried out has ranged from erosion repairs to paths and ramparts, to improving fencing so that cattle can graze in the summer and sheep during the winter. Volunteers have helped with ragwort removal in the summer months, and green hay spreading at some sites to enhance the diversity of wildflower populations.

National Trust ranger Clive Whitbourn said at the outset of the project: ‘The hillforts emerge mysteriously from the landscape, offering stunning panoramic views across the Dorset countryside. Due to scrub encroachment and erosion, urgent action is needed to protect them for the future for everyone. 

‘The work we will be doing together with a small army of volunteers will include scrub removal, fencing and improving access to visitors. This will result in better care of chalk grassland habitat and help attract more wildlife as well as butterflies – helping us meet our ambitions for nature.  

‘Archaeological features including long barrows and round barrows will be better protected when the threat of root and scrub damage has been removed.’

Other hillforts benefiting

The other Dorset hillforts benefiting from the grant include Lambert’s Castle, Coney’s Castle, Pilsdon Pen, Lewesdon Hill, Eggardon Hill and Badbury Rings.

In Wiltshire, Cley Hill, Figsbury Ring, Whitesheet Hill and Parkhill camp are also benefiting. Some 332 hectares of priority habitat will be in far better condition as a result of the generous award.

Get in touch

If you are interested in getting involved in the ongoing work, please contact project manager Marie McLeish on marie.mcleish@nationaltrust.org.uk.