The Bulwarks, Porthkerry

The Bulwarks is an Iron Age promontory fort built on a headland that rises steeply above the Bristol Channel with three defensive banks and ditches forming its main structure. The site spreads across a large area with commanding views toward the sea.

The fort was established during the Iron Age and shows evidence of human activity across multiple periods over many centuries. Archaeological finds indicate structures and occupation from later Roman times as well.

The fortification shows the military skills of Iron Age people who built strong defenses to protect their settlement. Over time, this place remained important to different groups of people living in the area.

The site can be reached by a walking path from the beach or through the caravan park grounds, with some routes being steep and tree-covered. Visitors should wear sturdy shoes since the ground is uneven and cliff edges are exposed.

The cliff edges surrounding this ancient structure naturally erode and gradually change the shape and size of the fortification over time. This ongoing geological process means the layout of the place is still slowly shifting today.

Location: Vale of Glamorgan

GPS coordinates: 51.38870,-3.32080

Latest update: December 14, 2025 14:41