Burrough Hill: Ancient Iron Age Hillfort Near Melton Mowbray
Explore Burrough Hill, a commanding Iron Age hillfort near Melton Mowbray with rich archaeological heritage and panoramic countryside views.
Burrough Hill is a well-preserved Iron Age hillfort situated near Melton Mowbray in Leicestershire, England. Standing on a limestone promontory about 210 meters above sea level, it offers commanding panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The site reveals evidence of continuous human activity from the Early Bronze Age through the Roman period, with significant archaeological finds illuminating its historic importance as a tribal center and fortified settlement.
A brief summary to Burrough on the Hill
- Melton Mowbray, Burrough on the Hill, GB
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Wear sturdy walking shoes to navigate the hillfort’s earthworks and uneven terrain comfortably.
- Bring a camera or smartphone to capture the expansive panoramic views from the hilltop.
- Visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the archaeological features and surrounding landscape.
- Check local weather forecasts as the exposed hilltop can be windy and cooler than the surrounding lowlands.
- Combine your visit with a trip to nearby Melton Mowbray to enjoy local food specialties and accommodations.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Information Boards
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
Getting There
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Bus
Take a local bus service from Melton Mowbray to the vicinity of Burrough on the Hill; the journey typically takes 20-30 minutes. Services run several times daily but check schedules in advance as frequency varies. From the bus stop, a moderate 15-minute walk on rural paths leads to the hillfort entrance.
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Car
Driving from Melton Mowbray to Burrough Hill takes about 15 minutes via country roads. Parking is limited near the country park entrance; visitors should arrive early during weekends or holidays. No parking fees apply. The final approach involves walking uphill on uneven terrain.
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Walking
For active visitors, a scenic 90-minute walk from Melton Mowbray town center to Burrough Hill is possible, following marked footpaths through farmland and countryside. The route includes some gentle inclines and may be muddy after rain, so suitable footwear is recommended.
Burrough on the Hill location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Windy Conditions
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Burrough on the Hill
Historical Significance and Archaeological Discoveries
Burrough Hill is a prominent Iron Age hillfort located approximately 7 miles south of Melton Mowbray, occupying a commanding position atop a limestone promontory around 210 meters above sea level. Archaeological evidence indicates human activity in the area dating back to the Early Bronze Age, around 2800 BC, with the hillfort itself constructed around 500 BC during the early Iron Age. Excavations led by the University of Leicester since 2010 have uncovered a wealth of artifacts, including decorated bronze fittings from an Iron Age chariot, pottery, stone tools, and metalwork hoards, illustrating the prestige and complexity of the hillfort’s ancient inhabitants.Landscape and Defensive Features
The hillfort’s location on a Jurassic escarpment provides natural defenses, with steep slopes on most sides except the east. The site is enclosed by a nearly continuous stone and turf rampart featuring an inturned entrance with a cobbled road and a stone guard-house, underscoring its strategic importance. The surrounding landscape includes views across the Wreake and Soar river valleys, extending to distant landmarks such as Charnwood Forest. The hillfort’s design and fortifications suggest it functioned as a tribal center, possibly for the Corieltauvi tribe, before Roman influence reshaped the region.Continuity and Later Use
Burrough Hill’s occupation extended well beyond the Iron Age into the Roman period, with evidence of a Roman farmstead dating to the 3rd–4th centuries AD. After its abandonment as a fortified settlement, the hill was used agriculturally during the medieval period, as shown by ridge and furrow plough marks. In later centuries, the site served various social functions, including fairs and steeplechase events in the 19th century. The hillfort is now part of Burrough Hill Country Park, protected as a Scheduled Ancient Monument and open to the public for exploration and appreciation of its rich heritage.Visitor Experience and Surroundings
Visitors to Burrough Hill can enjoy sweeping panoramic views of the Leicestershire countryside, with the site’s earthworks and ramparts offering a tangible connection to prehistoric life. The surrounding country park provides a tranquil setting for walking and contemplation, enhanced by the sense of history embedded in the landscape. Nearby Melton Mowbray, known for its culinary heritage and market town charm, complements a visit to the hillfort with amenities, accommodation, and cultural attractions.Archaeological Research and Ongoing Exploration
Since 2010, the University of Leicester has conducted extensive excavations and surveys, revealing new insights into the hillfort’s occupation phases and social significance. Recent discoveries include a large Iron Age settlement outside the main fort and well-preserved roundhouses, expanding understanding of the community size and lifestyle. These ongoing studies continue to shed light on the hillfort’s role within the broader prehistoric landscape of eastern Leicestershire.Local Legends and Anecdotes
Burrough Hill carries intriguing local stories, such as a 19th-century incident where a village schoolmaster was thought lost in snow on the hillfort but was later found alive, his violin discovered nearby. The site’s use as a fairground and venue for the 1873 Grand National steeplechase adds layers of social history to its ancient roots, blending folklore with archaeology in a unique cultural tapestry.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Memorial Clock Tower
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Bellmount Tower
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St Mary’s Church Nottingham
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Explore Burrough Hill, a stunning Iron Age hillfort with rich archaeological finds and panoramic views near Melton Mowbray.
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Shady Lane Arboretum
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Wing Maze
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Belgrave Hall
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National Space Centre
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Windmill Farm Park
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Leicester Abbey
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Abbey Park
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Leicester Museum and Art Gallery
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The Clock Tower
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Town Hall Square Fountain
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Leicester Market
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Essential places to dine
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Casa Romana Restaurant
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The White Peacock
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Varanasi Boutique Restaurant
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Cosy Club
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Sapphire Seafood Kitchen - Leicester Restaurant
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Wygston's House Bar & Restaurant
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John's House
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Restaurant Romanesc Leicester (Romanian Restaurant) Grande Gusto
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Hammer & Pincers
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Nest
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St George's Shopping Park
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A vibrant open-air retail park in Leicester offering diverse shops, extended hours, and convenient amenities for a comprehensive shopping experience.
A Few Nice Things UK
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Prettiez
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Discover unique gifts and boutique treasures in the heart of Leicester’s vibrant Clarendon Park at Prettiez.
The Pot Pourri Shop Leicester
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Karma Corner Gifts
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Leicester's premier spiritual gift shop offering curated wellness items and mindful lifestyle products.
Haymarket Shopping Centre
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The Source
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Urban Outfitters
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Nim's Boutique ltd
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The Wardrobe
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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The Loaded Dog
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Brick & Beam
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The Exchange Bar
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Watson's Cocktail Bar
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The King's Head
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Inside No 9
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Tønne Bar
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The Distillery
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Knight & Garter
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Duffy's Bar
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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Helsinki
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Club Republic
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The 2Funky Lounge
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The Brickworks
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Ocean Nightclub
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Unique
- Relaxing
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunrise Spots
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- 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
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
