Llanmelin Wood Hillfort: Ancient Iron Age Stronghold in Monmouthshire
Explore Llanmelin Wood Hillfort, a vast Iron Age stronghold overlooking the Bristol Channel, rich in history and surrounded by tranquil woodland.
Llanmelin Wood Hillfort is a large Iron Age hillfort perched above the Bristol Channel near Chepstow. Dating from around 300 BC to AD 75, it was likely a tribal centre for the Silures, featuring impressive earthworks with multiple banks and ditches. The site includes a main camp, annexes possibly for stock corralling, and an outpost in nearby woodland. Managed by Cadw, it offers visitors a glimpse into prehistoric life amid peaceful woodland surroundings.
A brief summary to Llanmelin Wood Hillfort
- Chepstow, Shirenewton, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 3 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4 pm
- Friday 10 am-4 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4 pm
- Sunday 10 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Wear sturdy footwear for the moderate uphill walk through woodland and fields to reach the hillfort.
- Visit during daylight hours as the site is open from 10am to 4pm year-round with no entry fee.
- Bring water and snacks as there are no food or drink facilities on site.
- Dogs are welcome but must be kept under control to protect wildlife and archaeological features.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Information Boards
Getting There
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By Car
Drive from Chepstow or Caerwent via the A48, then take minor roads north toward Shirenewton. Parking is limited to a layby near the foot of the hill. The drive typically takes 10 to 20 minutes. Note that there is no designated parking on-site, so plan accordingly.
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By Public Transport
Take a train to Caldicot railway station, approximately 8 km from the hillfort. From there, a taxi or local bus can be arranged, though services are infrequent. Expect total travel time of 30 to 50 minutes and fares around £5–£10.
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By Bicycle
Cycle via National Cycle Network Route 4, which passes near Caerwent, then continue on minor roads to the hillfort. The terrain includes some moderate hills. Expect a 20 to 40-minute ride from Caerwent.
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On Foot
From the nearest parking layby, a moderate 15 to 25-minute uphill walk through fields and woodland leads to the hillfort. The terrain is uneven and may be slippery when wet, so suitable footwear is recommended.
Llanmelin Wood Hillfort 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 Llanmelin Wood Hillfort
An Iron Age Bastion Overlooking the Bristol Channel
Llanmelin Wood Hillfort stands prominently on Mynydd Llanmelin, part of the Wentwood Hills in southeast Wales. Its elevated position offers commanding views over the surrounding countryside and the Bristol Channel beyond. Constructed initially in the 3rd century BC as a modest enclosure, it expanded into a formidable defended site by the Late Iron Age, with multiple banks, ditches, timber palisades, and stone revetments. These earthworks reflect the strategic importance of the site as a tribal centre and a stronghold against potential threats.Home to the Silures and a Link to Roman Britain
Archaeological evidence suggests Llanmelin was inhabited by the Silures, a native Celtic tribe who later became Romanised. The hillfort may have functioned as their capital before the establishment of Caerwent (Venta Silurum) around AD 75–80. Finds of Iron Age pottery, metalwork, and bone refuse alongside Roman pottery hint at continued use into the early Roman period. Around AD 75, the site appears to have been abandoned, possibly as inhabitants moved to the nearby Roman town, marking a significant cultural transition.Distinctive Features and Archaeological Discoveries
The hillfort complex comprises three main elements: the main camp with circular timber and mud houses, an adjacent annex of rectangular enclosures likely used for corralling livestock, and a woodland outpost about 250 meters away. Excavations in the 1930s revealed multiple phases of construction, including strengthened entrances and timber platforms, indicating evolving defensive needs. Medieval stone building remains near the entrance add further historical layers to the site.A Walk Through Time in a Woodland Setting
Today, Llanmelin Wood Hillfort is enveloped by mature woodland, creating a tranquil atmosphere for visitors. The site is accessible via a moderate uphill walk through fields and forest rides, rewarding visitors with peaceful surroundings and glimpses of the ancient earthworks. The terrain is moderately challenging, making it suitable for walkers with reasonable fitness. The hillfort’s overgrown banks and ditches still convey the scale and complexity of this Iron Age settlement.Preservation and Visitor Experience
Managed by Cadw, Llanmelin Wood Hillfort is open year-round during daylight hours, with no entrance fee. While there are no designated parking facilities on-site, nearby parking is available, and the walk to the hillfort is part of the experience. Dogs are welcome, but visitors should respect the natural environment and archaeological remains. Information boards provide context about the site's history and significance, enhancing the educational value of the visit.Connecting Past and Present in Monmouthshire
Llanmelin Wood Hillfort offers a tangible connection to Wales’ prehistoric past and the transition into Roman Britain. Its impressive earthworks, archaeological finds, and scenic setting invite exploration and reflection on ancient life in this borderland region. The hillfort stands as a testament to the ingenuity and resilience of the Iron Age communities who shaped the landscape thousands of years ago.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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The Glen Yr Afon House Hotel
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Harold's Stones
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Mercure Newport
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Newport Cathedral
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East Usk Lighthouse
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Monnow Bridge
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Walnut Tree Farm Park
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Shire Hall
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Monmouth Castle
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Caldicot Castle
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Magor Marsh - Gwent Wildlife Trust
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Chepstow Castle
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Chepstow Museum
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Gloucester Hole
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Wintour's Leap
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Tintern
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Explore the majestic ruins of Tintern Abbey, a Gothic masterpiece and serene riverside monument to medieval monastic life in Wales.
Abbey Mill
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Tintern Abbey
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Devil's Pulpit
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Morris' of Usk
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Usk Rural Life Museum
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Usk Castle
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Essential places to dine
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Panevino Italian Restaurant
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Newbridge on Usk
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White Hart Village Inn Llangybi
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The Wild Hare
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The Rib Smokehouse & Grill
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The Anchor Inn
10.3 km
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Rafters
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The Grill
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57 Bridge Street
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The Snug Restaurant & WOOD-FIRED PIZZERIA
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Yema Pan Asian Restaurant
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Clarkes South Wales Restaurant
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Elegant Victorian dining with traditional Welsh flavors in the heart of Usk’s scenic Glen-Yr-Afon House Hotel.
The Priory
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Koxy Lifestyle
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Wye Emporium
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Rock Chocs Vegan Online Store
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Urban Trading
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The Copper Tree
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All Creatures Great & Small Charity Shop
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Spirit of Awen
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Flaunt Home & Gifts
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New Look
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The Outlet
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The Wardrobe
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New Pastures Home
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Newport Market
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Primark
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Piercefield
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Queen's Head Micropub
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The Rose & Crown, Tintern
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The Castle Inn Usk
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The Ship Inn Caerleon
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The Goldcroft Inn
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The Man Of Steel
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The Rainbow Bar
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Blaina Wharf
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The Potters
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Windsor Castle
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McCann's Rock N Ale Bar
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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Lizard Lounge
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The Pearl NightClub
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Marquee Cocktail Bar & Nightclub
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Silk Nightclub
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Antix
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Queenshilling - Bristol Bar and Nightclub
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OMG
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Myth & Legends
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
