Bury Castle

Bury Castle is an Iron Age hillfort near Selworthy in Somerset. It stands on a spur of land that overlooks the surrounding countryside. The main enclosure covers 0.2 hectares and is defended by a single rampart and ditch. Steep drops protect the north, east and south sides, while a second rampart lies 30 metres to the west. The bank reaches up to 1.6 metres high, with a ditch 2 metres deep. Dry-stone walling reinforces the rampart in places. The site is now a scheduled monument owned by the National Trust. It has been placed on the Heritage at Risk Register because scrub and trees threaten its condition. Archaeologists recognise Bury Castle as an important example of an Iron Age defensive structure. The layout shows careful planning to control access and protect the interior. Visitors can still trace the lines of the ramparts and ditches across the hilltop. A walk around the hillfort offers views over the Somerset countryside. The site lies close to Selworthy’s thatched cottages and heather-covered moorland. The contrast between the ancient defences and the peaceful village is striking. The National Trust maintains paths that lead to the best vantage points. From here, the surrounding landscape stretches out in all directions.