Castle Ditches

Castle Ditches is an Iron Age hillfort in south-east Wiltshire. It stands on a small hill covered by woodland on three sides. The fort has three ramparts and ditches arranged in a roughly triangular shape. A large entrance lies on the south-east side where the hill slopes gently. A narrow passage can be found on the opposite side. The site covers nearly 24 acres and the ramparts rise to about 40 feet at their highest point. Its ancient name may have been Spelsbury, and it was called Willburge in a charter from the 10th century. The hillfort was recognised as a Scheduled Monument in 1932. It sits about 2.4 kilometres south-east of Tisbury village at grid reference ST964282. The hill reaches 193 metres above sea level and overlooks the River Nadder valley to the north. Public footpaths run around the site, though the land remains privately owned. The fort is one of many hillforts found across England. Visitors find earthworks of three ramparts and ditches still visible today. The woodland provides a quiet setting for exploring the ancient defences. The large entrance offers a clear way into the interior. The narrow slit on the far side adds an element of mystery. Views extend over the surrounding countryside, especially towards the River Nadder. The site remains largely undisturbed, preserving its Iron Age character.