Castle Ditches

Castle Ditches is an Iron Age hillfort near Tisbury featuring three concentric rings of ramparts and ditches arranged in a triangular defensive layout. The earthworks cover a large hilltop and reveal the sophisticated construction methods used to protect the settlement.

The fortification was built during the Iron Age as a military installation and appears in a charter from 984 AD, showing the site remained significant long after its original construction. References in early documents suggest the location held importance across many centuries.

The strategic placement of Castle Ditches at 193 meters above sea level reflects the military knowledge and organizational capabilities of Iron Age communities.

The site is privately owned but visitors can view the archaeological remains from public footpaths that circle the ancient fortification. Comfortable shoes are recommended since the paths cross uneven ground and the hilltop can be steep.

The eastern entrance displays particularly complex defensive earthworks that rise distinctly above the surrounding terrain. This elaborate construction at a single point suggests where the fortification's builders concentrated their defensive planning.

Location: Tisbury

GPS coordinates: 51.05468,-2.05328

Latest update: December 14, 2025 16:43