Blackbury Camp Devon
An ancient Iron Age hillfort in Devon, famous for its breathtaking bluebell carpet in May and impressive earthworks.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peak bluebell bloom
Blackbury Camp Devon
Best Time
Peak bluebell bloom
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An ancient Iron Age hillfort in Devon, famous for its breathtaking bluebell carpet in May and impressive earthworks.
"A truly magical place, especially in May for the bluebells - it's got that wow factor!"
🎯 May for Bluebells!
Plan your visit in May for the stunning bluebell display. It's a must-see!
🚗 Narrow Lane Access
Be prepared for narrow, bumpy lanes leading to the camp. Larger vehicles may find it tricky.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Bluebell Carpet
Interior of the camp
An enchanting sea of bluebells blankets the camp floor in May, creating a magical, unforgettable spectacle.
Iron Age Earthworks
Perimeter of the camp
Explore the impressive, well-preserved banks and ditches of this ancient hillfort, a testament to Iron Age engineering.
Wildlife Spotting
Surrounding woodland and fields
Keep an eye out for pheasants, rabbits, and other local wildlife amidst the natural beauty of the camp.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Bluebells
Navigating the Narrow Lanes
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 May for Bluebells!
Plan your visit in May for the stunning bluebell display. It's a must-see! +1
🚗 Narrow Lane Access
Be prepared for narrow, bumpy lanes leading to the camp. Larger vehicles may find it tricky.
🅿️ Parking Can Be Tricky
The car park is small and can fill up quickly, especially during peak season.
🚶♀️ Walk the Embankments
Enjoy an uplifting walk around the ancient embankment for great views and a sense of history.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 May for Bluebells!
Plan your visit in May for the stunning bluebell display. It's a must-see! +1
🚗 Narrow Lane Access
Be prepared for narrow, bumpy lanes leading to the camp. Larger vehicles may find it tricky.
🅿️ Parking Can Be Tricky
The car park is small and can fill up quickly, especially during peak season.
🚶♀️ Walk the Embankments
Enjoy an uplifting walk around the ancient embankment for great views and a sense of history.
📸 Golden Hour Magic
Visit during golden hour for beautiful light and stunning photography opportunities.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Blackbury Camp, especially its stunning bluebell display in May, calling it a 'wow factor' experience. The historical significance of the Iron Age hillfort and the peaceful, natural setting are also highly praised. Some note that the narrow access lanes and small car park can be challenging, particularly during peak season.
"Visited the camp after seeing the signpost from the main road. The road down to the camp is narrow and slightly bumpy but not requiring 4x4 capability. Be advised if you have a large van. The car park was empty on an early October evening and the walk around the camp was atmospheric and slightly magical. To feel that our ancestors lived here nearly 3000 years ago and erected a considerable fortification is inspiring. The interior of the camp is a wonderful sight and the walk around the embankment is uplifting. Look forward to returning in May for the bluebell woodland floor carpet."
Ian Thomas
"A carpet of bluebells , nature at its best. Wonderful place to visit , certainly highly recommend going to see it. 👍🏻 it’s got that wow factor 🙂"
Malcolm Petfield
"May is the month for blue bell! It was really beautiful, full of blue bells. parking can be a bit tricky but apart from that, the place looks gorgeous. If you’re near the area and looking for a bed of blue bells, this place is a must!"
Gene Abad
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Blackbury Camp is located near Colyton in East Devon. Access is via narrow, country lanes that can be bumpy. While most cars can navigate them, larger vehicles might find it challenging. The nearest postcode is EX24 6JE.
Yes, there is a small car park. However, it can fill up quickly, especially during peak times like the bluebell season in May. Arriving early or late can help secure a spot.
Public transport options are limited for reaching Blackbury Camp directly. It's best accessed by car. If using public transport, you would likely need to travel to a nearby town like Honiton or Colyton and then arrange local transport or a taxi.
The most common route involves country lanes. Be prepared for these to be narrow and potentially uneven. Following local signage or using a GPS with up-to-date map data is recommended.
Due to the narrow and sometimes bumpy nature of the access lanes, large vans or motorhomes may find it difficult to reach Blackbury Camp. It's advisable to check conditions or consider parking further away if you have a very large vehicle.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Blackbury Camp is generally free to enter. It's a historical site managed by local efforts, and there are no admission fees. 
As an open historical site, Blackbury Camp does not have set opening hours. It is accessible during daylight hours.
While often featured in 'hidden gem' lists and appreciated for its historical significance, Blackbury Camp is not directly managed by English Heritage. It's a local treasure preserved by community efforts.
There are no specific visitor facilities like toilets or cafes directly at Blackbury Camp. It's a natural historical site, so come prepared.
Yes, Blackbury Camp can be visited year-round. However, the most spectacular time is in May for the bluebells. +1
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the impressive Iron Age earthworks, walk the ancient embankment, and in May, marvel at the stunning bluebell carpet. It's also a peaceful spot for wildlife spotting and enjoying nature. +1
Absolutely! Blackbury Camp offers fantastic photography opportunities, especially during the bluebell season in May and the golden hour. The ancient earthworks also provide dramatic backdrops.
A visit can range from an hour to a few hours, depending on your interest. You might spend longer if you're keen on photography, wildlife spotting, or simply enjoying the peaceful atmosphere.
Yes, walking is a primary activity here. You can walk around the perimeter of the hillfort on the embankment and explore the interior. The terrain is natural and can be uneven.
Visitors have reported seeing pheasants, rabbits, and various birdlife. The natural setting makes it a good spot for observing local fauna.
📸 📸 Photography
The golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, offers beautiful light for photography. May is also ideal for capturing the vibrant bluebells.
The bluebell carpet in May is incredibly photogenic. The ancient earthworks and the panoramic views from the embankment also make for stunning shots.
No special permit is typically required for personal photography at Blackbury Camp, as it's an open access site. However, for commercial or professional shoots, it's always wise to check local guidelines.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expanse of bluebells or the scale of the earthworks. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting.
As a natural and historical site, drone usage may be subject to local regulations and landowner permissions. It's advisable to check current rules before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
If visiting in May, the bluebell carpet is a magical sight that children will likely find enchanting. It's a fantastic opportunity for them to connect with nature and experience a truly beautiful natural phenomenon. Remember that facilities are limited, so pack snacks and drinks, and be prepared for uneven terrain.
🚶♀️ Nature Enthusiasts & Hikers
Combine your visit with other local walking routes, such as those mentioned in trail running events, to create a longer excursion. The natural beauty, especially during the bluebell season, makes it a prime location for photography and quiet contemplation.
+1📸 Photographers
+2Visiting during the golden hour can elevate your shots with warm, soft light. The natural setting also provides opportunities for wildlife photography. Be mindful of the small car park, especially during peak bluebell season, to ensure you have ample time to capture the perfect shot.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of Blackbury Camp
+1Walking the perimeter of the camp allows visitors to truly appreciate the scale and engineering of this ancient structure. The interior of the camp is a serene space, and the walk around the embankment is both uplifting and historically evocative. It's inspiring to imagine our ancestors living and working here nearly 3,000 years ago, erecting such a considerable fortification.
Today, Blackbury Camp is a protected historical landscape, with ongoing efforts to preserve its connection to those who came before. Its well-preserved state makes it a valuable site for understanding Iron Age life in Britain.
Experiencing the Bluebells
To witness this spectacle, timing is crucial. The bluebells typically bloom from early to mid-May, depending on the weather conditions. Visitors are advised to plan their trip during this window to experience the full magic. The vibrant display creates a truly 'wow' factor and a deeply memorable experience for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Beyond the visual splendor, the bluebell season also brings a sense of community and shared appreciation for nature's beauty. While the car park can be challenging during this peak time, the reward of walking through the bluebell-filled camp is widely considered worth the effort.
Wildlife and Nature at Blackbury Camp
The surrounding woodland and open spaces provide a rich habitat for birds, contributing to the peaceful and natural ambiance of the camp. The combination of ancient history and thriving nature makes Blackbury Camp a delightful destination for those who appreciate the outdoors and the simple beauty of the countryside.
Even outside of the bluebell season, the natural beauty of Blackbury Camp offers a tranquil escape. The historic landscape, combined with the opportunity to observe wildlife, makes it a rewarding visit for nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
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