Those who are daring and seek adventure will be rewarded. A visit to Cadbury Castle involves navigating tight, twisting lanes and very limited parking means there’s no guarantee you’ll be able to park close by. But if you’re successful, the breath-taking 360-degree views for miles and the absolute peace and serenity that awaits is well worth the gamble.

The site was first settled over 2,500 years ago by the Dumnonian Tribe, before ramparts were built, farms were created and small hamlets formed. The newly enlarged hillfort served as a centre for trading raw materials, gatherings and safety.

Traces of Iron Age round houses have been revealed here, as well as artefacts that remind us of the pottery and wooden containers made here, and more exotic items like glass beads which are thought to have been traded from glassworkers in the somerset levels.

The walk begins from the layby, and is a simple there and back walk to the hillfort site where you can follow the information boards, or simply explore as you wish, before making your return journey.

(1) From the layby, follow the signposted track to Cadbury Castle, climbing steadily uphill the whole way. (2) You’ll go through a wooded section before walking along the edge of a field (3)  and reaching the gated entrance. (4) 

Wildflowers and lush greenery stand tall on and around the ramparts. 

It’s the views on offer that really steal the show. Take a seat and just take it all in – on a clear day you can see across Tiverton and beyond to the north, and south to Exeter.

Once you’ve finished exploring, head down to the charming village of Thorverton for a bite to eat and a drink at one of two village pubs, The Thorverton Arms and The Exeter Inn, before returning home.