Maiden Castle - Dorchester

Maiden Castle: A Historical Gem in Dorchester, UK

Address: Maiden Castle Rd, Dorchester DT2 9PP, United Kingdom

Phone: 3703331181

Website: english-heritage.org.uk

Specialties: Castle, Heritage building, Historical landmark, Tourist attraction

Other points of interest: Wheelchair accessible entrance, Good for kids

Opinions: This company has 918 reviews on Google My Business.

Average opinion: 4.6/5

About Maiden Castle

Maiden Castle is a captivating historical landmark situated in Dorchester, United Kingdom. This ancient site, dating back to the Iron Age, offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the remnants of a once-thriving community. The castle is known for its impressive earthwork defenses, which include a series of ramparts and ditches that encircle the entire hilltop.

Features and Location

Located on Maiden Castle Rd, the site is easily accessible and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding Dorchester area. The castle is a part of the English Heritage group, which ensures its preservation and maintenance for future generations to enjoy. Visitors can expect a well-maintained site with informative displays and exhibits that provide insight into the history of the area.

Recommended Information for Visitors

• Download information about the site before your visit to enhance your experience.
• Beware that there are many dog walkers and dogs on site, so be prepared for that.
• Take advantage of the wheelchair accessible entrance to ensure everyone can enjoy the site.

Testimonials and Reviews

Visitors have expressed their delight in exploring Maiden Castle, with many praising the interesting walkways and beautiful views. The lack of shops and cafes is a drawback for some, but the focus on the historical aspect of the site is well-received. Many visitors recommend downloading information about the site beforehand to make the most of their visit.

The average opinion rating of 4.6/5 speaks to the overall satisfaction of visitors. They appreciate the well-preserved historical landmark and the educational value it provides, making it a must-visit destination for history buffs and families alike.

👍 Reviews of Maiden Castle

Paul

4/5

A really interesting place to walk around, particularly if you download information as their is limited information but is a really interesting place to visit. No shops, coffee just a nice walk with nice views, but again, download information, and then the experience is fascinating. I am very happy I visited.

Chantal B.

5/5

Lovely walk, brilliant views - beware only a few people seem to have their dogs on a lead and there are a lot of dog walkers and therefore a lot of dogs.

Rich B.

5/5

Wonderful Iron Age hill fort, just south of Dorchester. Small, free car park with a steep, up hill walk to the west gate.
The ramparts are spectacular, covered in wild grasses and flowers and grazed by a large flock of very tame sheep (watch where you put your feet). Dozens of skylarks singing, with swallows, martens and lots of other grassland birds flying about.
Views are spectacular 360°, though Poundbury is a bit intrusive to the north.
Quiet, even on a beautiful, sunny Sunday afternoon, this was a glorious place to get away from it all.

Andy P.

5/5

An astonishingly large monument, far greater than expected. Personally, I was overwhelmed by the openness and complexity of the construction. Open to the elements and with no shelter. Good walking boots are essential. Beware of sheep droppings everywhere as the animals seem to roam freely. Quite a small car park. The site is managed by English Heritage but there appeared to be no charge to access the site. Dogs must be kept on a lead. There appeared to be only one waste receptacle at the car park.

JP O.

5/5

Grass everywhere, plenty of sheep and thorny gullies to accidentally-on-purpose shove annoying entitled kids in. When I got to the top I could see a the car park! Ten out of ten!

Helen S.

5/5

A lovely walk up to Maiden Castle, an impressive feat of 1st Century BC engineering. The size of 50 football pitches, it was an important settlement inhabited by during the Iron Age & Roman occupation. Spectacular views across the Dorset countryside.

R. M.

5/5

Our visit to Britain's biggest iron age hill fort absolutely did not disappoint. The site offers a number of different walkways which cover and surround this impressive location. Information signs provided at key features of the site offer background and insight into the purpose and way of life of its occupants.
There is a large carpark at the base of the hill fort, however given the uniqueness of this site there is no visitor center to educate any further.
Also note there are no public conveniences at this location. Keep this mind when visiting because it's recommended to stay at least a couple of hours.
Be sure to visit the English Heritage website and download their short audio guide which enhances your experience.
Dogs on leads are welcome.
Lots of picnic locations.

T

5/5

Good historical place for a hike.. Good views over Dorchester..... and peace from other people. Saw 1 person and many sheep today . Lol @ the folk expecting toilets, benches, refreshments, sideshows and actual castles this place isn't for you.