Uffington Castle: Ancient Iron Age Hillfort on White Horse Hill
Explore the ancient earthworks of Uffington Castle, an Iron Age hillfort overlooking the iconic White Horse and legendary Dragon Hill.
Uffington Castle is a remarkable Iron Age hillfort perched atop White Horse Hill in Oxfordshire. Dating back around 3,000 years, this historic earthwork offers panoramic views across the Berkshire Downs and is closely linked with the nearby prehistoric Uffington White Horse and the legendary Dragon Hill. Managed by English Heritage and the National Trust, the site blends ancient history, myth, and stunning natural landscapes, making it a captivating destination for history enthusiasts and hikers alike.
A brief summary to Uffington Castle
- Dragon Hill Rd, Faringdon, GB
- +443703331181
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Budget
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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 walking shoes as the terrain is uneven and can be muddy, especially after rain.
- Visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the panoramic views from the hillfort.
- Combine your visit with a walk to the nearby Uffington White Horse and Dragon Hill for a complete experience.
- Parking is available at the National Trust car park; members park free, others pay a small fee.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy in the scenic surroundings and soak in the tranquil atmosphere.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Car
Driving from Oxford to Uffington Castle takes approximately 40 to 50 minutes via A420 and A417. Parking is available at the National Trust car park near the site for £2 for two hours or £4 for all day; National Trust members park free. The car park is on uneven terrain, so be prepared for a short uphill walk to the castle.
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Public Transport
From Oxford, take a train to Didcot Parkway or Swindon (travel time 20-40 minutes), then transfer to a local bus towards Faringdon or Wantage. From the bus stop, a taxi or a 30-40 minute walk on country lanes and footpaths leads to the site. Bus services run infrequently, so check schedules in advance.
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Walking
For hikers, Uffington Castle is accessible via the Ridgeway National Trail, Europe’s oldest road. Walking from Uffington village involves a moderate 3 km hike over rolling hills with some steep and uneven sections, taking approximately 1 to 1.5 hours. Suitable footwear and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended.
Uffington Castle 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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Windy Conditions
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Uffington Castle
Ancient Origins and Historical Significance
Uffington Castle is an Iron Age hillfort constructed approximately 3,000 years ago, around 700 BC. Unlike a traditional stone castle, it consists of large grass-covered earthworks forming defensive ditches and ramparts that once enclosed wooden structures. The fort occupies the summit of White Horse Hill, Oxfordshire's highest point at 262 meters, strategically positioned to command expansive views across the surrounding countryside. Archaeological evidence indicates that while permanent occupation ceased before the start of the Common Era, Roman and Saxon burial sites nearby suggest intermittent use in later periods.Connection to the Uffington White Horse and Dragon Hill
The hillfort sits in close proximity to two other iconic prehistoric landmarks: the Uffington White Horse and Dragon Hill. The White Horse is the oldest chalk hill figure in Britain, a striking stylized horse carved into the hillside over 3,000 years ago. Dragon Hill, a natural mound near the base of White Horse Hill, is steeped in folklore as the legendary site where St George is said to have slain a dragon. Together, these sites form a unique cultural landscape blending history, legend, and natural beauty.Landscape and Visitor Experience
Visitors to Uffington Castle can explore the extensive earthworks and enjoy sweeping panoramic views of the Berkshire Downs and beyond. The terrain is open and grassy, with some uneven and potentially muddy areas during wet weather. The site is accessible via a moderate walk from the National Trust car park, which also serves the White Horse and Dragon Hill. The surrounding landscape is rich with wildlife, including grazing sheep, and offers opportunities for hiking along the ancient Ridgeway trail, Europe’s oldest road.Traditions and Cultural Heritage
Historically, Uffington Castle was part of a vibrant local tradition known as the Pastime, a festival involving the ceremonial cleaning or scouring of the White Horse. This event, recorded from the 17th century until the mid-19th century, drew large crowds and featured various festivities. Though the Pastime ceased in 1857, the National Trust has since organized volunteer efforts to maintain the White Horse, preserving this ancient landmark for future generations.Practical Information and Accessibility
The site is open year-round during daylight hours with free entry. Parking is available at the National Trust car park for a fee, with free parking for members. While the terrain requires some physical effort due to hills and uneven ground, the walk offers rewarding views and a profound sense of connection to Britain’s ancient past. Dogs on leads are welcome, and visitors are encouraged to respect the natural environment by following Leave No Trace principles.Enduring Appeal and Significance
Uffington Castle remains a captivating destination for those interested in archaeology, history, and folklore. Its commanding position atop White Horse Hill, alongside the enigmatic White Horse and Dragon Hill, creates a landscape where myth and history intertwine. The site’s preservation by English Heritage and the National Trust ensures that this remarkable Iron Age monument continues to inspire and educate visitors about Britain’s distant past.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Relaxing
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
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- 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
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Myth & Legends
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- Weekend Getaway
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
- Solo Female Friendly
