Moel y Gaer, Bodfari

Moel y Gaer stands on a low summit above the River Wheeler near Bodfari in Denbighshire. It is an Iron Age hillfort, one of six along the Clwydian Range, and the lowest of them at just 200 metres above sea level. The hill rises above surrounding land at the point where the River Wheeler meets the River Clwyd. Offa’s Dyke Path runs along the base of the hill, linking the site to a long-distance trail. The fort commands wide views over the valley and the Clwydian hills. Its single entrance faces north, protected by a steep eastern slope. The fort is among the smallest in the chain and probably dates from the Iron Age. Excavations began in 2011 and continue today, focusing on features inside the two-hectare enclosure. Archaeologists have uncovered pits and possible roundhouse platforms cut into the hilltop. The ramparts show signs of several phases of construction, suggesting the site was rebuilt over time. No exact date has been confirmed, but the layout and finds point to Iron Age use. The work aims to understand how the fort was organised and defended. Visitors reach the fort by following a path from Bodfari up the hillside. The ramparts still form low grassy banks around the flat summit, enclosing the excavated area. The northern entrance is the easiest point to enter the enclosure. From the top there are clear views across the valley and towards the Clwydian Range. The site is quiet, with only occasional walkers passing on the Offa’s Dyke Path below. The ongoing dig leaves small areas fenced off, but most of the fort remains open to walk around.