Bill Hill Bronze Age Barrow
Explore a tranquil wooded hill in Bracknell crowned by a protected Bronze Age burial mound, blending ancient history with natural beauty.
Bill Hill Bronze Age Barrow is a small wooded hill in Bracknell featuring a Bronze Age round barrow, a burial mound dating back thousands of years. This designated Ancient Monument offers a peaceful natural setting with mature beech and oak trees, wooden sculptures, and walking paths. While the barrow itself is subtle and mostly earthworks, the site is a protected archaeological landmark and a quiet refuge within the town.
A brief summary to Bill Hill Bronze Age Barrow
- 1 Friars Keep, Bracknell, RG12 7AZ, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Wear sturdy footwear as paths can be uneven and natural, especially after rain.
- Bring water and snacks since there are no facilities like toilets or cafes on site.
- Visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the woodland and subtle earthworks.
- Respect the site’s protected status by staying on paths and not disturbing the barrow.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Trash Bins
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take the local bus service from Bracknell town center towards Rectory Lane; the journey takes approximately 10-15 minutes. Services run regularly during the day but check schedules on weekends. From the nearest stop, a short walk through residential streets leads to the site.
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Car
Driving from central Bracknell takes about 5-10 minutes. Limited parking is available near Friars Keep, but be aware some nearby parking is private. Street parking may be found in adjacent areas. No parking fees apply.
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Walking
From Bracknell town center, walking to Bill Hill takes approximately 25-30 minutes over mostly flat, paved, and residential terrain. Suitable for most fitness levels and accessible for casual walkers.
Bill Hill Bronze Age Barrow location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Bill Hill Bronze Age Barrow
An Ancient Burial Site Hidden in Bracknell
Bill Hill Bronze Age Barrow is a modest yet nationally significant archaeological site located in Bracknell. At the summit of this small ridge lies a circular earth mound known as a bowl barrow, dating back to the Bronze Age, roughly between 2200 and 1000 BC. These barrows were burial mounds used for individual or multiple interments, sometimes for cremations, and represent some of the earliest funerary monuments in Britain. Bill Hill’s barrow has been legally protected as a Scheduled Ancient Monument since the 1950s, recognizing its importance in the nation's heritage.A Woodland Haven with Subtle Historical Features
The site today is a tranquil wooded hill covered with mature beech and oak trees, creating a serene natural environment. The barrow itself is not prominently visible as a constructed monument but appears as a hollowed earth mound on the eastern side of the hill. Visitors will find well-maintained walking paths winding through the woodland, making it a pleasant spot for short walks or quiet contemplation. Scattered wooden carvings enhance the woodland atmosphere, blending cultural art with the natural setting.Preservation and Protection of a Fragile Landscape
As a Scheduled Ancient Monument, Bill Hill Bronze Age Barrow is protected by law to preserve its archaeological integrity. This status restricts any activities that could damage the site and ensures that the barrow remains a lasting link to prehistoric times. The surrounding woodland also serves as a wildlife habitat, contributing to local biodiversity and offering a green space within the urban landscape of Bracknell.Visitor Experience and Accessibility
While there are no visitor facilities such as toilets or information centers on-site, Bill Hill is accessible year-round as a public open space. The terrain is gentle, suitable for casual walkers and those interested in archaeology or local history. The wooded environment provides a peaceful retreat from the built-up town, making it a favored spot for dog walkers and nature lovers. Interpretive signage is limited, so visitors are encouraged to explore the site with some background knowledge of Bronze Age barrows.Local Significance and Community Connection
Bill Hill Bronze Age Barrow stands as a humble but meaningful monument to the ancient peoples who once inhabited the area. It offers a tangible connection to the distant past amidst modern Bracknell. The site is appreciated locally as a green haven and a reminder of the deep history beneath everyday surroundings. Its presence enriches the cultural landscape and invites reflection on the continuity of human settlement in the region.Integrating Nature, History, and Art
Beyond its archaeological value, Bill Hill is part of a broader woodland ecosystem managed for conservation and public enjoyment. The combination of natural beauty, historical significance, and artistic wooden sculptures creates a unique atmosphere. This blend makes Bill Hill Bronze Age Barrow not only a place of ancient memory but also a contemporary space for relaxation, inspiration, and exploration.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
