Pilsdon Pen — A Hillfort with Dorset’s Highest Views

A Dramatic Hilltop with Ancient Earthworks

Standing above the Marshwood Vale, Pilsdon Pen is one of Dorset’s highest points and a striking Iron Age hillfort.
Its steep slopes, open summit, and sweeping views make it a favourite spot for walkers.
Today, the site offers clear ramparts and a commanding landscape.

It’s a high, scenic hillfort with strong historic character.

Iron Age Origins

The hillfort dates to the Iron Age and was built on a prominent natural summit.
Its defensive banks and ditches protected a substantial community.
Therefore, the earthworks reflect both settlement and strategic planning.

Archaeology has revealed:

House platforms

Boundary features

Storage pits

Finds linked to daily life

In addition, the fort’s elevation provided natural defence.

Exploring Pilsdon Pen
1. The Ramparts

The ramparts curve around the summit in bold lines.
Walking along them gives a clear sense of the fort’s size.
In addition, the height offers excellent vantage points across Dorset and Devon.

2. The Summit Plateau

The flat summit once held houses and activity areas.
It remains open and grassy today.
Moreover, the space makes it easy to imagine the fort’s community life.

3. Extensive Views Across the Landscape

From the top, you can see the Marshwood Vale, Lewesdon Hill, and far toward the coast.
These long views make Pilsdon Pen one of Dorset’s best natural lookouts.
Furthermore, the ridge paths connect with wider walking routes.

(Learn more at the National Trust’s page on Pilsdon Pen.)

Wildlife and Natural Landscape

The slopes and summit support chalk grassland and heath.
Butterflies, birds, and seasonal wildflowers are common.
Because the site is open and remote, wildlife thrives with limited disturbance.

In addition, the hill’s elevation creates varied winds and weather patterns.

Walks and Nearby Sites

Pilsdon Pen links well with other high points in West Dorset.
Popular combinations include:

Walks to Lewesdon Hill

Circular routes around the Marshwood Vale

Paths toward Eggardon Hill

Longer trails across the Dorset–Devon border

For more Dorset hillforts, see our guides to Maiden Castle and Hambledon Hill.

Visiting Pilsdon Pen
How to Get There

Location: Near Pilsdon and Marshwood, Dorset

Parking: Roadside parking near the base

Train: Axminster (closest station)

Bus: Limited rural services

Opening Hours & Admission

Open daily

Free access

Facilities

No toilets or café

Steep grassy footpaths

No interpretation boards on site

Nearby Attractions

Lewesdon Hill — Dorset’s highest point

Forde Abbey — Historic estate with gardens

Beaminster — Market town with cafes and shops

Golden Cap — Highest point on the south coast

Together, these form the West Dorset Hilltops & Heritage Trail.

Why Visit Pilsdon Pen?

The Pilsdon Pen experience offers:

High hillfort with dramatic views

Clear Iron Age earthworks

Peaceful walking routes

Free, open-air access

Whether you enjoy archaeology, long views, or hill walks, Pilsdon Pen is one of Dorset’s most rewarding ancient landmarks.
It’s not just a hillfort — it’s a commanding summit shaped by history and landscape.