This multi-period hillfort commands an imposing hilltop near Corwen in the Dee Valley. The pattern of banks and ditches, and especially the collapsed stone ramparts, are evidence of the changing shape and size of the fort over time.
The track that leads up the hill takes you to the eastern entrance where youll see a complex of defended enclosures.
The first enclosure you enter contains a number of stone-walled buildings and has seemingly been added to the larger fort enclosure. The stone-walled defended fort is entered through an inturned entrance, almost like a funnel, which is now choked by stone. Look carefully and you can still see the outer facing stones of the rampart on the left and right as you enter.
At its inner opening, can you spot the facing walls of a pair of guard-chambers? Some archaeologists believe that the Celts used this point to control the traffic of wagons, animals and people.
In places the collapsed drystone wall still presents a parapet and walkway. The interior was probably dense with timber roundhouses during the Iron Age but the only hut site visible today is in the main fort - a flattened round platform lies to the east, opposite a very large stone in the base of the rampart.
Directions: Take A5 to Corwen from Llangollen. Turn right in the centre of the village. At T-junction after 1km, take B5437 left. Follow the road to junction with A5104. Turn right. After 1.6km, there's a lay-by where you can park. Follow the waymarked path south along the lane on foot to left turn. Take the left track through gate up hill. Alternatively, from the centre of Corwen, cross the River Dee and, behind the swimming pool car park, there is a way marked path that gives access to the fort. Visitors must take care not to move stones.
Map: View map
Image provide by the National Monuments Record of Wales
Website: www.rcahmw.org.uk
The National Monuments Record of Wales is the public archive of the Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Wales. It holds information and images on the archaeology and built heritage of Wales and offers a public enquiry service.
