Liddington Castle Wiltshire
An ancient Iron Age hill fort offering breathtaking panoramic views over Swindon and the surrounding Wiltshire countryside.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best views, fewer crowds
Liddington Castle Wiltshire
Best Time
Best views, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An ancient Iron Age hill fort offering breathtaking panoramic views over Swindon and the surrounding Wiltshire countryside.
"Magnificent views of Swindon Town and the surrounding countryside, well worth the uphill walk."
🎯 Plan Your Access
Limited parking. Follow paths carefully to avoid private land and barbed wire fences.
🥾 Wear Sturdy Footwear
The terrain can be muddy and hilly, so good walking shoes are essential.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Swindon Views
Summit of the hill fort
Breathtaking 360-degree vistas of Swindon town and the surrounding countryside. A truly expansive perspective.
The Star Fort
Near the hill fort entrance
An intriguing star-shaped fortification, a unique historical feature offering a glimpse into past defenses.
Peaceful Countryside Walk
Surrounding paths and fields
Enjoy a tranquil walk through rolling hills, often with sheep grazing. A perfect escape for quiet contemplation.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating to Liddington Castle
Best Time for Views & Peace
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Plan Your Access
Limited parking. Follow paths carefully to avoid private land and barbed wire fences.
🥾 Wear Sturdy Footwear
The terrain can be muddy and hilly, so good walking shoes are essential.
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera for stunning panoramic shots of Swindon and the Ridgeway.
⭐ Look for the Star Fort
A unique landmark near the hill fort, worth seeking out for its historical interest.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Plan Your Access
Limited parking. Follow paths carefully to avoid private land and barbed wire fences.
🥾 Wear Sturdy Footwear
The terrain can be muddy and hilly, so good walking shoes are essential.
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera for stunning panoramic shots of Swindon and the Ridgeway.
⭐ Look for the Star Fort
A unique landmark near the hill fort, worth seeking out for its historical interest.
🐑 Watch for Grazing Sheep
You might encounter sheep on the hills, adding to the rural charm.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Liddington Castle for its magnificent views and peaceful countryside setting, offering a rewarding walk and historical exploration. However, the challenging access, limited parking, and potentially muddy terrain are frequently noted drawbacks.
"Hard to get to there's a lot of private land surrounding it and no parking. Look up how to find it via the star fort and it's well worth the trip. Great views from the top over Swindon"
Nick Sandel
"Well worth a visit... Beautiful views all around. Quite an uphill walk from the roadside where parking is available but limited to 3 or 4 cars. Follow the path up and around to the right. The hill fort is fenced all around and only access from the right side field. Go through the gate then follow fence line toward the hill fort then there is a 2nd gate to access the fort. Don't go straight toward the hill fort from the path or around from the left, its all barbed wire fence with no access. Starfish bunker is on the right at the top of the path to the hill. There is also a memorial site behind that of loved ones passed. Really nice area to wander around and take in the countryside. Give it a go!"
Martin Jones
"A magnificent view of Swindon Town"
Richard Smith
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Access can be challenging. Many visitors report limited parking and surrounding private land. It's recommended to research specific routes beforehand, possibly using the 'star fort' as a landmark. Be prepared for an uphill walk from where you can park.
Parking is very limited, often described as space for only 3-4 cars. It's advisable to arrive early or consider alternative transport if possible.
Follow the paths carefully. Access to the hill fort itself is typically from the right side field, through a specific gate. Avoid going directly towards the fort or around the left, as these areas are often fenced off.
While cycling might be possible on some paths, the terrain can be challenging and muddy. It's best suited for experienced cyclists comfortable with off-road conditions.
Public transport options are scarce for direct access. It's primarily a destination for those with private vehicles or willing to undertake a longer walk from nearby towns.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Liddington Castle is a historical site and generally does not require tickets for entry. It's an open area for exploration.
As an open-air historical site, there are no set opening or closing hours. You can visit at any time, though daylight hours are recommended for safety and views.
There is no admission fee to visit Liddington Castle. It's a free historical landmark to explore.
Dogs are generally welcome in the outdoor areas, but it's always best to keep them on a lead, especially if there are sheep grazing.
Yes, it can be a great spot for group walks or historical exploration. However, be mindful of the limited parking and access points for larger groups.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The main attractions are the impressive hill fort, the star fort, and the expansive panoramic views over Swindon and the Ridgeway. There's also a memorial site.
A typical visit for walking and enjoying the views might take 1-2 hours, depending on your pace and how much you explore the surrounding areas.
No, there are no facilities such as toilets or cafes directly at Liddington Castle. It's a natural site, so come prepared.
Absolutely! The panoramic views, historical features, and surrounding countryside offer fantastic opportunities for photography, especially during sunrise or sunset.
You're likely to see sheep grazing on the hills. Birdlife is also common in the rural setting.
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, offers the most dramatic and beautiful light for capturing the landscape and views.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the panoramic views. A telephoto lens can be useful for details in the town below. Don't forget a tripod for low-light shots.
The summit offers the best overall views. The star fort itself is also a unique subject. Look for interesting angles of the hill fort's ramparts.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local bylaws and ensure you have permission if required, especially considering it's an open countryside area.
Focus on the ramparts of the hill fort and the distinct shape of the star fort. The viewing table at the top also provides a good framing element.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Parents should be mindful of the limited parking and the need to carefully follow paths to avoid private land. Keeping a close eye on children is important, especially near any fenced areas. The historical aspect of the hill fort can spark imagination, making it an engaging educational outing.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Lovers
Be prepared for varied terrain; the paths can be muddy and uneven, so good hiking boots are a must. The lack of facilities means you'll need to be self-sufficient. The golden hour is particularly magical here, offering breathtaking light for photography and a serene experience.
📸 Photographers
Consider bringing a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive scenery and a tripod for low-light conditions. The changing weather can also add dramatic flair to your photographs. Remember to check for any local drone regulations if you plan to capture aerial shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Hill Fort and Star Fort
Navigating to these features requires careful attention. Reviews highlight that direct approaches can be blocked by fences and private land. The recommended path involves following the contours of the hill and looking for specific access gates. The presence of a viewing table at the top further enhances the experience, providing context for the expansive landscape.
The juxtaposition of the ancient hill fort and the star fort is a unique aspect of Liddington Castle, offering a layered historical narrative. It’s a place where you can literally walk through different eras of defense and settlement.
The Journey and Practicalities
Visitors emphasize the importance of following the correct paths to avoid private property and inaccessible areas. The reviews suggest a specific route involving a gate on the right side field to access the fort itself. This careful navigation ensures you can fully appreciate the site without encountering obstacles. The peaceful nature of the location, often with sheep grazing, adds to its charm, but also means being mindful of the rural environment.
The effort involved in reaching the summit is consistently mentioned, but the reward of the views and the historical exploration is universally praised. It’s a destination that rewards preparation and a sense of adventure.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit