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Basingstoke And Deane

Litchfield And Woodcott

Ladle Hill Iron Age Hillfort

Basingstoke And Deane

Litchfield And Woodcott

Ladle Hill Iron Age Hillfort

Highlight • Historical Site

Ladle Hill Iron Age Hillfort

Hiking

5.0

(28)

Mountain biking

5.0

(1)

This Highlight is in a protected area

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North Wessex Downs National Landscape

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Location: Litchfield And Woodcott, Basingstoke And Deane, Hampshire, South East England, England, United Kingdom

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Tips

Dan Hobson

August 18, 2020

Hiking

Ladle Hill is a biological Site of Special Scientific Interest and a Scheduled Monument with sublime views. Atop the hill is an Iron Age hill fort that has never been excavated. Ladle Hill is a calcareous grassland chalk downland habitat, which is now scarce in Britain.

Grace Mulligan

July 16, 2023

Hiking

This is a wonderful spot with a lovely display of seasonal wildflowers that bloom within the spring and summer months.

MCW73

February 14, 2025

Hiking

The hillfort on the top of the hill has never been excavated, but the land and ditch are sharply defined and well preserved. This Iron Age fort is roughly rectangular and enclosed seven acres within an embankment and ditch. There are two probable entrances to the east and west. The work seems to have been undertaken by several different labour forces, each working on a section of the defences, but for some reason the task was abandoned and the fort left unfinished. Great to walk along the unfinished ramparts, it's windy and flipping huge!!!

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Nearby routes

Best routes near Ladle Hill Iron Age Hillfort

4.8

(10)

hikers

#1.

Ladle Hill loop from Sydmonton — North Wessex Downs

5.63km

01:34

100m

Embark on the Ladle Hill loop from Sydmonton, a moderate hike through the North Wessex Downs that spans 3.5 miles (5.6 km) with an elevation gain of 336 feet (102 metres), typically taking around 1 hour and 33 minutes to complete. You will traverse rolling chalk downlands, open farmland, and serene woodland paths, enjoying magnificent 360-degree panoramic views. From elevated points, you can spot landmarks like Beacon Hill, the Highclere Estate, and the sweep of Watership Down, making for a picturesque and varied experience.

When planning your visit, be aware that while the trail is generally moderate, some sections may require sure-footedness, and initial parts of the track can become rutted and muddy after wet weather. However, drier, narrower paths are often available between trees. The route starts from Sydmonton, and it is suitable for those with good fitness, offering a rewarding journey through diverse landscapes.

This loop is rich in history and unique features, including the Ladle Hill Iron Age Hillfort, a scheduled monument that offers a rare glimpse into ancient construction as it was abandoned mid-build. You will also pass through parts of the historic Sydmonton Estate, owned by Andrew Lloyd Webber, and follow a section of the Wayfarer's Walk. The area is famously associated with Richard Adams' novel Watership Down, adding another layer of interest to this historically significant trail.

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Moderate

5.0

(3)

hikers

#2.

Watership Down Hill – Ladle Hill Iron Age Hillfort loop from Ecchinswell, Sydmonton and Bishops Green

9.44km

02:37

160m

170m

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Moderate

5.0

(4)

hikers

#3.