Lambert's Castle Dorset
Explore an ancient Iron Age hillfort offering breathtaking 360° panoramic views across the Dorset countryside.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Crisp air, fewer crowds
Lambert's Castle Dorset
Best Time
Crisp air, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore an ancient Iron Age hillfort offering breathtaking 360° panoramic views across the Dorset countryside.
"Absolutely stunning views can see miles across the Dorset landscape."
Wear Sturdy Footwear
The terrain can be uneven; good walking shoes are essential for exploring the hillfort and woods. :athletic_shoe:
Pack for All Weathers
Dorset weather is unpredictable. Bring layers and a waterproof jacket, even on sunny days. :cloud:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Vistas
Summit of Lambert's Castle
Experience breathtaking 360° views stretching for miles across the Dorset countryside and towards Portland.
Ancient Hillfort Earthworks
Outer ramparts of Lambert's Castle
Walk the impressive ancient earthworks, imagining life here over 2,500 years ago.
Shaded Woodland Trails
Edges of Lambert's Castle
Wander through serene woodlands, featuring magnificent ancient beech trees.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Elements
Hillfort, Not a Castle
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Sturdy Footwear
The terrain can be uneven; good walking shoes are essential for exploring the hillfort and woods. :athletic_shoe:
Pack for All Weathers
Dorset weather is unpredictable. Bring layers and a waterproof jacket, even on sunny days. :cloud:
Dog-Friendly Paradise
A fantastic spot for dogs! Remember to bring bags and use designated bins to keep it clean. :dog:
Picnic Perfection
With ample space and stunning views, it's ideal for a picnic lunch. :sandwich:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Sturdy Footwear
The terrain can be uneven; good walking shoes are essential for exploring the hillfort and woods. :athletic_shoe:
Pack for All Weathers
Dorset weather is unpredictable. Bring layers and a waterproof jacket, even on sunny days. :cloud:
Dog-Friendly Paradise
A fantastic spot for dogs! Remember to bring bags and use designated bins to keep it clean. :dog:
Picnic Perfection
With ample space and stunning views, it's ideal for a picnic lunch. :sandwich:
Kite Flying Fun
The open spaces make it a great location for flying kites on breezy days. :kite:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Lambert's Castle for its absolutely stunning, far-reaching views and its suitability for a variety of outdoor activities like dog walking and picnics. The ancient hillfort provides a unique historical element, and the surrounding woodlands offer a peaceful escape. Some minor points of improvement mentioned include the condition of the access driveway and the need for more conveniently placed waste bins.
"Stunning area in any weather, a very good short walk. Great for dog walkers, families, picnics, kite flying, landscape photography and other countryside pursuits."
Cory Schultze
"I go here quite often with my dog. It's a wonderful place to be in rain or shine. I love walking through the woods there. The only thing I would say is to have a better poo bin one where you don't have to touch the lid and to have one or two dotted around the area so you don't have to carry your dogs poop around with you until you get back to the car. Also the driveway really needs to be sorted, I'd be happy to pay a small fee if it ment that the driveway was sorted all the way up to the car park."
Autistic Painter
"Easy access and ample parking make this a highly recommended destination. Easy level walking with incredible 360° views over hundreds of square miles of Dorset countryside as far as Portland. Shaded woodland around the edges with some enormous ancient beech trees."
Martin Toogood
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Lambert's Castle is accessible by car, with parking available at the summit. The driveway to the car park can be rough, so drive carefully. It's also reachable via local bus routes, though services may be infrequent. For keen walkers, it's part of longer trail networks in the area.
Yes, there is ample parking available at the top of Lambert's Castle, making it easy to access the hillfort and its views.
Cycling is possible, but be prepared for some steep sections on the approach roads. The paths within the hillfort itself are best explored on foot.
From Charmouth, you can drive directly to Lambert's Castle, which takes about 15-20 minutes. It's also a scenic, albeit longer, walk or cycle if you're feeling adventurous.
Public transport is limited. While buses may serve nearby villages, you'll likely need to walk a significant distance from the nearest stop. Driving is the most convenient option.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Lambert's Castle and its grounds is free. You can explore the hillfort and enjoy the views without any admission fee.
Lambert's Castle is an open-air site and is accessible at all times. There are no set opening or closing hours.
Currently, there is no charge for parking at Lambert's Castle, though some visitors have suggested a small fee would be welcome if it meant driveway improvements.
As it's an open site, you can visit at night, but be aware that there are no lights, and visibility will be limited. It's best enjoyed during daylight hours for safety and to appreciate the views.
Lambert's Castle is managed by the National Trust, which helps maintain the site and its natural beauty for visitors.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy walking the ancient earthworks, exploring the surrounding woodlands, taking in the panoramic views, having a picnic, and flying kites. It's a great spot for photography and dog walking.
Facilities are minimal. There are some poo bins for dog walkers, but visitors should be aware that there are no toilets or cafes on site.
Yes, it's very suitable for children. They can enjoy running around the open spaces, exploring the woods, and imagining ancient times. Supervise them closely on the ramparts.
Expect stunning 360-degree views across the Marshwood Vale and the wider Dorset countryside, stretching as far as Portland on a clear day.
Absolutely! The panoramic vistas, ancient earthworks, and woodland offer fantastic opportunities for landscape and nature photography.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, there are no cafes or restaurants directly at Lambert's Castle. It's a natural site, so it's best to bring your own food and drinks for a picnic.
The nearest villages, such as Charmouth or Lyme Regis, offer a selection of pubs, cafes, and restaurants. These are a short drive away.
Yes, Lambert's Castle is an ideal spot for a picnic. There are plenty of open spaces to spread out and enjoy your meal with a view.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit offers the best panoramic shots. Also, explore the ancient ramparts and the majestic beech trees in the surrounding woods for varied compositions.
Golden hours (early morning and late afternoon) provide beautiful light for landscape photography. Midday can be harsh but still offers clear, expansive views.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check with the National Trust or local authorities regarding any restrictions before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families: Bring a picnic to enjoy with the incredible views. Ensure children wear sturdy shoes as the ground can be uneven. Keep a close eye on them, especially near the ramparts. While there are no play facilities, the natural environment provides ample entertainment.
🐶 Dog Owners
Key advice: Always keep your dog under control, especially near the ramparts and any wildlife. Bring plenty of poop bags and use the bins provided to keep the area clean for everyone.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Walkers
Recommendations: Wear appropriate hiking boots, as paths can be muddy or uneven. Check local walking guides for longer trail options that start or pass through Lambert's Castle. Pack water and snacks, as facilities are limited.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Hillfort
+1While there's no actual stone castle, the scale of the earthworks is remarkable. Visitors often marvel at the strategic location chosen by its ancient inhabitants, offering commanding views over the surrounding Marshwood Vale. This makes it not just a historical site but also a prime location for appreciating the natural landscape.
For those interested in history, imagining the lives of the people who built and inhabited this fort adds another layer to the experience. The sheer effort involved in constructing these defenses speaks volumes about the importance of the site in ancient times.
Walking and Nature
The surrounding countryside provides ample opportunities for longer hikes. The hillfort is often incorporated into circular walks, allowing visitors to explore the broader Dorset landscape. The terrain can be varied, offering gentle paths and more challenging routes depending on your preference.
+1It's also a fantastic spot for dog walkers, with plenty of space for canine companions to roam. Remember to be mindful of other visitors and wildlife, and always clean up after your pet.
Photography Opportunities
Beyond the grand vistas, the ancient earthworks themselves offer compelling photographic subjects. The textures and contours of the ramparts, especially when viewed from different angles or during the golden hours, can create dramatic and evocative images. The surrounding woodlands, with their ancient beech trees, provide a more intimate and atmospheric setting for photography.
Consider visiting during sunrise or sunset for the best light, which can dramatically enhance the colors and shadows of the landscape. The changing seasons also offer unique photographic opportunities, from the lush greens of summer to the autumnal hues of fall.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit