Welcome to Cholesbury Camp Information Board

Image: © David Hillas Taken: 2 Nov 2024

This information board has been provided by the Chiltern Society and is located off Parrotts Lane, HP23 6NE. It has the following wording and photos: Welcome to Cholesbury Camp - An Iron Age Hillfort Chiltern Society We care for the Chilterns Left side Cholesbury Camp is one of the best preserved examples of an Iron Age multivallate hillfort in the country and a designated Scheduled Monument. Established by our distant ancestors Cholesbury Camp is one of a chain of defendable sites across the Chilterns. It functioned intermittently as a place of refuge for approximately 400 years until soon after the Roman invasion in 50AD. An Iron Age refuge The hillfort fortifications are described as 'multivallate' which means it is an enclosure with two or more lines of concentric earthworks set at intervals. The earthworks can be clearly seen today as an unbroken circle save for a section in the south of the site. Photo: aerial photo of Cholesbury Camp In the open central area, two aquifer fed ponds show that there was a reliable source of water and almost certainly was the reason that this site was chosen. Excavations of the site in the early 1930's unearthed evidence of clay lined ovens and also a number of well-preserved hearths or fire sites which suggest the use of the fort for domestic living. People's Postcode Lottery Heart of Bucks, Buckinghamshire Community Foundation Middle Photo of Beech Trees The fine stand of beech trees that now encircle Cholesbury Camp marks the outline of the earthworks. Believed to date back to the early 19th century the trees are now protected and offer a unique character to the site throughout the year. Photo of Holy Pond Photo of St Laurence Church The church is one of two in the county to be found inside a hillfort. The original 13th century church, having fallen into disrepair, was rebuilt in 1872. Map of Cholesbury Camp with key on the right. Right side Today - vital heritage preserved The hillfort is now part of the local village of Cholesbury - whose name originates from the Anglo-Saxon 'Ceolweald's burh' meaning 'The fortified place of Ceolweald's people' - and is in multiple ownership. The Chiltern Society manages a section of the hillfort and, in partnership with the other owners' and local interest groups, aims to preserve this fine example of our ancient heritage whilst keeping it accessible to visitors to enjoy and to learn about it. Chiltern Society Help us to care for the Chilterns today Explore the Chilterns - we look after a growing number of heritage sites and nature reserves, all open to the public. Volunteer - from footpath clearing and nature conservation to leading a walk - there is lots you can do. Enjoy the Chilterns - by taking part in our year round programme of walks, events and cycle rides. Join us - by becoming a member of the Chiltern Society you are helping to conserve and protect the Chilterns. Chiltern Society Registered charity 1085163 White Hill Centre, White Hill, Chesham, Bucks, HP5 1AG Tel 01494 771250 www.chilternsociety.org.uk Facebook, Twitter, QR code HERITAGE, CONSERVATION, ENVIRONMENT, WIDLIFE, LEISURE

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