Musbury Castle facts for kids

Location in Devon

Musbury Castle is an ancient place in Devon, England. It's what we call a hill fort, built a very long time ago during the Iron Age. This special site sits high up on a hill, about 175 meters (574 feet) above sea level. From here, you can see amazing views of the Axe River valley below.

What is Musbury Castle?

Musbury Castle is a type of ancient settlement called a hill fort. People built these forts on top of hills to protect themselves and their communities. They were often surrounded by large banks of earth and deep ditches. These acted like walls and moats to keep enemies out.

When Was Musbury Castle Built?

Musbury Castle was built during the Iron Age. This period of history was from about 800 BC to 100 AD. During the Iron Age, people learned how to work with iron. They used iron to make tools, weapons, and other important items. Before this, people mostly used bronze or stone.

Why Build on a Hill?

Building a fort on a hill was a smart idea for several reasons:

• Good Views: From a high spot, people could see enemies coming from far away. This gave them time to prepare.
• Natural Protection: The steep sides of a hill made it harder for attackers to climb up.
• Control: Being on a hill gave the people living there control over the land below. They could watch over important rivers or trade routes.

Life in an Iron Age Hill Fort

Life in an Iron Age hill fort like Musbury Castle was busy. People lived in roundhouses, which were homes made of wood and thatch. They farmed the land around the fort, growing crops and raising animals. They also made pottery, wove cloth, and crafted tools. Hill forts were not just for protection. They were also important places for trade and meetings.

Exploring Musbury Castle Today

Today, Musbury Castle is a quiet place. You can still see the remains of the earth banks and ditches that once protected the fort. It's a great spot to visit and imagine what life was like thousands of years ago. The views from the top are still incredible, just as they were for the people who lived there in the Iron Age.