Maes Knoll Tump: Ancient Iron Age Hill Fort and Historic Landmark
Explore Maes Knoll Tump, an ancient Iron Age hill fort near Bristol, blending prehistoric earthworks with panoramic views and wartime history.
Maes Knoll Tump is an Iron Age hill fort located on the eastern end of the Dundry Down ridge near Bristol, England. Built around 250 BC by the Celtic Dobunni tribe, this ancient earthwork features a large earthen mound rising 7.5 meters above the fort’s defenses, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The site also played a role during World War II as a lookout point. Today, Maes Knoll is a protected Scheduled Ancient Monument, inviting visitors to explore its rich history and scenic vistas.
A brief summary to Maes Knoll Tump (Iron age Hill Fort)
- 9CVC+9H, Bristol, GB
- Duration: 1 to 3 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 to comfortably explore the earthworks and uneven terrain of the hill fort.
- Visit on a clear day to enjoy expansive views including the Bristol area and distant Cotswold Hills.
- Bring water and snacks, as there are no food or drink facilities directly at the site.
- Combine your visit with a walk along sections of the historic Wansdyke earthwork nearby.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Information Boards
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
Getting There
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Bus
Take the bus from Bristol city center to Whitchurch Village, which takes approximately 25 to 35 minutes. From there, a 15-minute walk on uneven terrain leads to Maes Knoll. Bus services run hourly with a single fare costing around £3.50.
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Car
Driving from Bristol city center to Maes Knoll takes about 15 to 20 minutes. Limited parking is available near the site, but spaces can be scarce during weekends. No parking fees apply. The access road involves some narrow rural lanes.
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Walking
For the adventurous, a 5 km walk from Whitchurch village to Maes Knoll takes roughly 1 to 1.5 hours over hilly and grassy paths. The route is moderately challenging and not suitable for wheelchairs or strollers.
Maes Knoll Tump (Iron age Hill Fort) location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Maes Knoll Tump (Iron age Hill Fort)
Origins and Historical Significance of Maes Knoll
Maes Knoll, sometimes called Maes Tump, is a prominent Iron Age hill fort situated south of Bristol, England, at the eastern end of the Dundry Down ridge. Constructed approximately in 250 BC, it is believed to have been built by the Dobunni, a Celtic tribe inhabiting the British Isles before the Roman invasion. The fort occupies a strategic position atop an Oolite ridge, commanding extensive views over the surrounding countryside. It is a Scheduled Ancient Monument, reflecting its importance as a well-preserved example of prehistoric defensive architecture.Architectural Features and Landscape
The hill fort is characterized by its roughly triangular shape and large flat plateau, which was fortified with earth ramparts and ditches. A distinctive feature is the Maes Knoll Tump, an earthen mound approximately 7.5 meters high and 60 meters across, located on the north-western edge of the fort. This mound rises about 15 meters above a defensive ditch and likely served as a vantage point for surveillance and defense. The fort's earthworks are part of the larger Wansdyke system, an extensive early medieval earthwork running across the region.Role Through the Ages and Wartime Use
Beyond its Iron Age origins, Maes Knoll has seen varied use through history. During the Second World War, the tump hosted a small corrugated-iron hut used by Dundry’s Home Guard to monitor for enemy aircraft and potential invasions. Remnants of wartime stone cairns remain on the plateau east of the fort, originally placed to deter enemy glider landings. This layering of historical significance adds depth to the site’s narrative, connecting ancient defense strategies with modern wartime vigilance.Myths, Legends, and Cultural Context
Local legend enriches Maes Knoll’s character, including tales of a giant named Gorm who created the tump by dumping earth he carried on a spade. Such folklore highlights the cultural imprint of the site on the local imagination. The name Maes Knoll itself derives from Brythonic and Old English roots meaning "flat top" and "hill," reflecting the fort’s distinctive topography. The site’s connection to the Dobunni tribe adds to its cultural heritage, offering insight into the lives of pre-Roman Celtic peoples.Visitor Experience and Scenic Appeal
Today, Maes Knoll offers visitors a tranquil and scenic outdoor experience with panoramic views that stretch across the Bristol area and beyond. The elevated tump provides a unique vantage point to appreciate the surrounding landscape, including glimpses of the Cotswold Hills on clear days. The site’s blend of natural beauty, historical earthworks, and wartime relics creates a multifaceted destination for history enthusiasts, nature lovers, and casual walkers alike.Conservation and Accessibility
As a Scheduled Ancient Monument, Maes Knoll is protected to preserve its archaeological and historical integrity. The site is accessible year-round and lies close to Bristol, making it an easy day trip for visitors interested in England’s Iron Age heritage. While the terrain involves some gentle slopes and earthworks, the area is suitable for most visitors seeking a peaceful outdoor setting enriched by deep historical roots.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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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
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- 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
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Requires Hike
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
