Hembury Hillfort, an outstanding prehistoric monument near Honiton, has been bought by the Devon Archaeological Society.
Hembury is Devon’s most spectacular Iron Age hillfort. Its massive earthen ramparts and ditches date from the middle of the first millennium BC, and create a prominent landmark with commanding views over the surrounding countryside.
The land was put up for sale in 2021 with a guide price of £100,000. The Devon Archaeological Society (DAS) purchased the site with some of its own funds, helped by large donations from some of its trustees and members, and a £73,047 grant from Historic England. The sale officially went through last year, but a celebration event took place at the site on Friday, March 17.
The DAS plans to manage the site as a nature conservation area as well as an archaeological treasure, and has signed an agreement with the Devon Wildlife Trust to secure joint management. The DAS will also work with Devon County Council and the Blackdown Hills AONB Partnership.
Bill Horner, president of the Devon Archaeological Society, said: “Our Society is delighted to be able to secure the long-term protection of this magnificent site for both its history and its wildlife. The site is much valued by local people who use it as a place for quiet enjoyment. We are looking forward to working with our new neighbours and the wider local community to continue to care for this splendid monument, so that the future of Hembury can be ensured for future generations.”
Dr Eileen Wilkes, chair of the Society, said: “Our Society has been closely involved with the archaeology of this very special site for almost 100 years. Hembury played an important part in the development of archaeology in the 1930s, and recently archaeologists have been able to build on that pioneering work. We intend to continue the programme of research, as Hembury still has much to tell us.”
Duncan Wilson, Chief Executive of Historic England said: “Hembury Hill is a very special place, combining natural beauty and historic significance. You can still stand on its Iron Age ramparts today and look out over the surrounding countryside, much as our ancestors would have done over two thousand years ago. Historic England is delighted to have played a part in securing its future.”
Hembury Hillfort is open to visitors using public rights of way, as long as they respect its archaeological and nature conservation importance.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here