Musbury Castle Walk
2.5 miles (4 km)This circular walk visits the Iron Age Hill Fort of Musbury Castle in East Devon.
The fort is located a short walk from the village of Musbury near Lyme Regis. You can follow a section of the East Devon Way south east from the village to reach the fort.... From the 175 metre high hill top there are some excellent views to Seaton on the coast.
The walk around Musbury Castle begins in the quiet village of Musbury and climbs steeply through ancient sunken lanes and rolling Devon pastures to reach the Iron Age hillfort. Situated on a high ridge 175 metres above sea level, the site is a classic promontory fort featuring a single massive rampart and ditch that follow the natural contours of the hill. Historically, the fort dates back over 2,000 years and served as a strategic defensive position overlooking the Axe Valley, likely held by the Durotriges or Dumnonii tribes. During the 17th century, the landscape gained further significance as the birthplace of John Churchill, the 1st Duke of Marlborough, who was born at nearby Ashe House.
The scenery from the summit is among the most expansive in East Devon, offering 360-degree vistas that stretch from the distant hills of the Marshwood Vale to the sparkling waters of the Jurassic Coast at Seaton. Looking north, you can trace the meandering River Axe as it flows toward the sea, while the heights of Shute Hill and Trinity Hill dominate the western horizon. The return journey often takes you through the sheltered Musbury Woods, where bluebells carpet the ground in spring and the dense canopy provides a cool contrast to the exposed, windswept ramparts of the castle.
You can continue your hill walking in the area by heading east to visit Morcombelake and Hardown Hill.
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