Dumpdon Hill

Dumpdon Hill is an Iron Age hillfort in Devon that rises above the River Otter valley and is crowned by beech woodlands. The site displays clearly visible ramparts and ditches spiraling up toward the summit, shaping the experience as you climb the slopes.

The fort was built around 2500 years ago during the Iron Age to protect a substantial settlement in the region. Its design with multiple defensive lines reveals the strategic thinking of ancient British communities.

The National Trust maintains this archaeological site where visitors can explore one of Devon's largest hill forts while learning about prehistoric British defensive systems.

The hill is accessible via two small car parks with marked walking trails that pass through grazing meadows managed by longhorn cattle for natural land care. Sturdy footwear is recommended as the ascent crosses open grassland with no paved surfaces.

From the summit, views sweep across the entire Otter valley, a rare vantage point compared to other Iron Age settlements in the region that occupy lower positions. This commanding perspective likely influenced the original choice of location for defensive purposes.