Beckbury Camp

Most people assume it's a Roman camp, but the story actually starts earlier – a substantial Iron Age hillfort stood here first, and the Romans later moved in, either making use of what was already there or substantially rebuilding it during their time.

Today the defensive earthworks remain remarkably visible. You can trace the substantial ramparts and ditches that reveal the strategic thinking behind the site's design. Once you're up there, it becomes immediately obvious why so many people chose this location across the centuries: the elevated position gives sweeping views across the surrounding Cotswolds landscape, making it perfect for settlement and defense alike. It's worth wandering the remains slowly rather than rushing through – you'll develop a real sense of the people who lived and fought here across different eras.

The site sits just above Stanway village and is straightforward to reach if you're in the area. You can easily combine it with other activities – Broadway and Winchcombe are both a short drive away if you want food or browsing in independent shops. This is quiet walking country with genuine historical substance, the kind of place where the landscape itself explains why people chose to settle here in the first place.