Burrough Hill Iron Age Fort

Route Overview

The Burrough Hill walk is a magnificent 3.5-mile circular route that takes you to one of the most impressive Iron Age hillforts in the East Midlands. Perched at 210 metres above sea level on a dramatic spur of land, Burrough Hill commands extraordinary views across the rolling Leicestershire countryside - a panorama that stretches from the Welland Valley in the south to the hills of Charnwood Forest in the north-west. The earthwork ramparts, which date back over 2,500 years, are remarkably well preserved and enclose a hilltop plateau of approximately 12 acres.

Starting from the car park at the base of the hill, the route follows a bridleway that climbs steadily through open grassland to the summit. The ascent is the most demanding section of the walk but takes only around 15 minutes at a comfortable pace. Once on the hilltop, the path follows the line of the ancient ramparts, offering continuously changing views as you circuit the fort. The ditches and banks of the earthwork defences are clearly visible, giving a powerful sense of the scale and ambition of the Iron Age community that built them.

The descent takes a different path through gently rolling farmland, passing through fields and along hedgerow-lined tracks before circling back to the car park. This lower section of the walk provides a pleasant contrast to the exposed hilltop, with sheltered paths, birdsong from the hedgerows, and the slower pace of the pastoral countryside. The route is well waymarked throughout with yellow arrows and Leicestershire Round markers.

Burrough Hill is managed by Leicestershire County Council as a country park and scheduled monument. The combination of archaeological interest, outstanding views, and varied walking makes this one of the finest outings in Leicestershire - a walk that connects you with thousands of years of human history in a landscape that has changed remarkably little since the fort was built.

Dog-Friendly Features

Dogs are welcome at Burrough Hill and can be off lead on the hilltop plateau, where the ancient ramparts act as natural boundaries and the open grassland provides excellent visibility. The summit is a wonderful place for dogs to run and explore, with the short grass and firm ground providing ideal off-lead conditions. The views are so open that you can see your dog from almost anywhere on the hilltop.

The ascent and descent paths cross farmland where livestock - particularly cattle and sheep - are often present. Dogs must be kept on leads in these areas, and gates should be closed behind you. The bridleway section may also see occasional horse riders, so be prepared to call your dog to heel when needed.

There is no natural water source on the hilltop, so carrying water for your dog is essential, particularly on warm days when the exposed summit can be hot and breezy. Dog waste bins are provided at the car park but not on the hill itself - please bag and carry waste. The grassland on the summit is grazed by sheep at certain times of year, during which dogs must be kept on leads even on the hilltop.

Getting There & Parking

The car park for Burrough Hill is located on Burrough Road, accessed from the village of Somerby or from the B6047. The postcode LE14 2QZ brings you close to the entrance. Parking is free, with space for approximately 25 vehicles. The car park is informal and unsurfaced, with a grass and gravel surface that can be soft after rain. It rarely fills up completely, though weekends in summer are the busiest times.

There is no public transport to Burrough Hill. The nearest town is Melton Mowbray, approximately 5 miles to the east. The route is also accessible from the village of Burrough on the Hill, where limited roadside parking is available.

Seasonal Tips

The hilltop is at its most dramatic on clear days when the views extend across the surrounding countryside. Autumn and winter often provide the clearest conditions, with sharp light picking out the details of the landscape and the earthwork ramparts casting long shadows. Spring brings wildflowers to the grassland and skylarks singing overhead - the combination of ancient archaeology and timeless birdsong is deeply atmospheric.

Summer visits are pleasant but the hilltop can be very hot and exposed, with little shade. Bring water for both you and your dog, and consider timing your walk for early morning or late afternoon. Winter walks are invigorating but the hilltop is extremely exposed to wind and weather - dress warmly in layers and be prepared for conditions to change rapidly. The ascent path can be muddy and slippery between November and March, so sturdy boots with good grip are essential.

Nearby Facilities

There are no facilities at Burrough Hill itself - no toilets, refreshments, or shops. The village of Somerby, approximately 2 miles away, has The Stilton Cheese Inn, a dog-friendly pub serving excellent food in a welcoming atmosphere. Burrough on the Hill has The Stag and Hounds, another good dog-friendly option. Melton Mowbray, 5 miles east, has a full range of amenities.

Veterinary services are available in Melton Mowbray. For a longer day out, Burrough Hill can be combined with a visit to Somerby village or a walk through the surrounding farmland that forms part of the Leicestershire Round long-distance path.