Journey back in time to uncover the last strongholds of Britain’s Celtic heritage, visiting ancient hillforts, sacred sites, and abandoned settlements. From mist-shrouded fortresses to enigmatic ruins, explore the locations where Celtic tribes stood against invaders, leaving a legacy etched deeply into the landscape.
Maiden Castle, Dorset – Iron Age Fortress
Start your exploration at Maiden Castle in Dorset, one of Europe’s largest and most impressive Iron Age hillforts. This ancient settlement once housed a powerful Celtic community, complete with massive defensive earthworks. Today, visitors can walk along its vast ramparts, imagining the fierce resistance mounted against invading Roman forces.
Castell Henllys, Pembrokeshire – A Living Celtic Village
Head west into Wales to visit Castell Henllys, a reconstructed Iron Age fort providing a vivid snapshot of Celtic life. This archaeological site features authentic roundhouses built exactly as the Celts would have constructed them. Visitors here can experience Celtic daily life firsthand, exploring reconstructed huts and discovering traditional crafts and customs through interactive exhibits.
Maiden Castle, Dorset – The Largest Hillfort
Travel eastward to Dorset’s Maiden Castle, Britain’s largest Iron Age hillfort. Its immense earthen ramparts once shielded thousands of Celts from external threats. The dramatic ruins and panoramic views evoke a sense of wonder and loss, capturing the resilience and eventual decline of Celtic culture under Roman occupation.
Glastonbury Tor, Somerset – Sacred and Strategic
Visit Glastonbury Tor, a hill steeped in legend and mystery, believed by many to be a significant Celtic spiritual site. This landmark, associated with myths of Avalon and King Arthur, was also a strategic stronghold in ancient times. The summit offers haunting views over Somerset, resonating with legends of druidic rituals and ancient battles.
Dunadd Fort, Scotland – Seat of Celtic Kings
Venture north to Scotland’s Dunadd Fort, once the heart of the Kingdom of Dál Riata. This rocky hilltop fortress is where Celtic kings were crowned and offers unique carvings, including the famous stone footprint used during coronation ceremonies. Visitors today can trace these symbolic carvings, feeling the deep history of this powerful Celtic seat.
The Ring of Brodgar, Orkney – Ancient Celtic Mysteries
Explore the far north to discover the mystical standing stones of the Ring of Brodgar in Orkney. While predating Celtic Britain, these stones were revered and adopted into Celtic ritual practices. Their impressive alignment provides insights into the spiritual life of early settlers, connecting visitors directly to ancient cultural traditions.
Anglesey – Druids’ Last Refuge
Complete your journey at Anglesey, the sacred Welsh island known as a druidic stronghold. Rich in prehistoric and Iron Age ruins, the island was a center for Celtic spirituality and resistance. Explore its burial mounds, standing stones, and ancient burial chambers, uncovering layers of history that speak powerfully of the island’s significance.
Rediscovering Celtic Britain
This tour of Britain’s forgotten Celtic settlements and sacred spaces provides an unforgettable journey into the heart of ancient history. Travelers will uncover tales of resistance, spirituality, and resilience, gaining a deeper appreciation of the enduring legacy of Britain’s Celtic ancestors.