Cadbury Castle, Somerset

Cadbury Castle is an Iron Age hillfort on a prominent hill at South Cadbury in Somerset, England, notable for extensive archaeological remains and its association with Arthurian legend.

Large earthworks of ramparts and ditches define the summit; the site comprises a defended hilltop enclosure with visible banks and gateways and offers panoramic views across the surrounding lowlands. Interpretation panels on site explain key features and the walking route to the summit is a short, well-used path.

The hillfort was built in the Iron Age and shows evidence of heavy use and modification in later periods. Excavations led by Leslie Alcock in the 1960s uncovered earlier prehistoric deposits and a substantial reoccupation in the post-Roman period with timber structures and high-status material remains.

The site sits above the village of South Cadbury in south Somerset, close to the small market town of Castle Cary and within rural agricultural landscape. Public access is via local footpaths from the village and nearby lanes.

• Summit views: The hilltop gives wide views across the Somerset Levels and is a popular short walk from the nearby village.
• Important excavations: The site was excavated in the 1960s by archaeologist Leslie Alcock, who revealed significant post-Roman occupation evidence.