Daw’s Castle — A Cliff-Top Fort Above the Bristol Channel

A Saxon Fort with Breathtaking Views

High on the cliffs above Watchet, Daw’s Castle offers one of the most dramatic viewpoints on the Somerset coast.
Once a Saxon burh and later a defensive lookout, this site protected the coastline from Viking attacks.
Today, its earthworks and panoramic sea views create a peaceful, open-air historic experience.

It’s a quiet place where coastal scenery meets early medieval defence.

A Saxon Burh Defending the Coast

Daw’s Castle was built in the late 9th century as part of King Alfred’s defence network.
Its strategic position allowed Saxon forces to watch for Viking ships approaching the Bristol Channel.
However, the fort saw repeated raids, which led to further strengthening of the earthworks.

Therefore, Daw’s Castle played a vital role in guarding Somerset’s vulnerable shoreline.

Exploring Daw’s Castle
1. The Defensive Earthworks

Although little masonry survives, the deep ditches and banks clearly mark the fort’s outline.
You can walk along the ramparts and see how the site controlled the headland.
In addition, interpretation panels explain the fort’s role in Alfred’s military system.

2. Spectacular Coastal Views

The cliffs provide sweeping views across the Bristol Channel, the Quantock Hills, and the coastline towards Minehead.
This vantage point makes it easy to understand why the site was chosen for defence.
Moreover, the sunsets here are especially impressive on clear evenings.

3. Peaceful Walking Routes

Daw’s Castle sits along the South West Coast Path, making it ideal for longer hikes or short, scenic walks from Watchet.
Grassy trails loop around the fort, offering a gentle, relaxing route for visitors.
Furthermore, the area is rich in wildlife, including seabirds and coastal flowers.

Learn more at the English Heritage website

A Quiet Site with a Long History

Though the fort is now a grassy headland, the sense of history is strong.
Vikings once sailed below these cliffs, and Alfred’s forces patrolled the ramparts above.
Additionally, the silence and open views make Daw’s Castle feel untouched and atmospheric.

It’s not just a ruin — it’s a coastal lookout shaped by Saxon resilience.

Visiting Daw’s Castle
How to Get There

Address: Daw’s Castle, Watchet, Somerset TA23

By Car: Free roadside parking in Watchet; short uphill walk

By Train: West Somerset Railway (seasonal) to Watchet

By Bus: Local routes connect to Watchet town centre

Opening Hours & Admission

Open daily

Free entry

Facilities

No facilities on site

Shops, cafés, and toilets in Watchet

Grassy paths and uneven ground

Nearby Attractions

Watchet Harbour — Historic coastal town with museum

Cleeve Abbey — Beautiful medieval monastic ruins

Quantock Hills AONB — Scenic walking and wildlife

Dunster Castle — Hilltop castle with gardens

Together, they form the West Somerset Heritage Trail.

Why Visit Daw’s Castle?

The Daw’s Castle experience offers:

A dramatic cliff-top location

Key Saxon and Viking history

Peaceful coastal walking routes

Free, open-air exploration

Whether you enjoy quiet views, early medieval history, or coastal walks, Daw’s Castle provides a refreshing, scenic break.
It’s not just a viewpoint — it’s a fortified headland with a story to tell.