Burrough Hill: Iron Age hillfort and rampart circuit

Burrough Hill’s grassy ramparts make a compact walk with wide views across the Leicestershire countryside. Follow the signposted farm track from the country park car park to the hillfort entrance, turn onto the southern rampart path and continue around the western, northern and eastern earthworks. Return to the car park along the same approach track. The plotted circuit is about 2 km. Allow an hour to explore the earthworks, pause at the toposcope and read the interpretation; walking continuously takes nearer half an hour.

Start at Burrough Hill Country Park’s public car park off Somerby Road, LE14 2QZ. Parking charges apply; check the current payment instructions and closing time at the entrance. There are toilets by the car park, but no café on this route. Bring water. The park’s opening times change seasonally, so leave enough time to return before the gates close.

The approach rises gently on a farm track, then the circuit follows uneven grassy paths on the hillfort. The banks are exposed to wind and can be slippery or muddy after rain. Wear footwear with grip, stay back from steep drops and take particular care with children near the edges. This is working farmland: close gates, give livestock plenty of space and keep dogs on a short lead. Stick to existing paths to protect the archaeological earthworks.

The hillfort’s stone and earth defences remain visible, although the houses and entrances described in archaeological reconstructions are no longer standing. This circuit uses the established rampart paths; University of Leicester Archaeological Services’ Burrough Hill self-guided walk provides useful background to the entrance, defences and excavations. Current visiting information: https://leicscountryparks.org.uk/parks/burrough-hill-country-park/