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Sara Tipler
Roundwood Promontory Fort is an ancient site perched on a natural hilltop, offering stunning views over the surrounding landscape. This Iron Age fort, with its strong defensive features, was likely a safe haven for local communities. The steep slopes and protective ramparts made it an ideal location for defence. Today, visitors can explore its history and imagine what life was like here over 2,000 years ago.
2300–800 BC
Four Bronze Age barrows were built on the ridge west of Roundwood.
350 BC–50 AD
The fort’s ramparts and inner enclosure were constructed during the Iron Age, forming a defensive promontory.
100–500 AD
Romano-British activity is evident in the surrounding area.
18th Century
A quay was built by Thomas Daniel around 1760, along with copper smelting operations and leats altering the landscape.
19th Century
The quay's use declined with new railways, but boat building, quarrying and a lime kiln kept the site active.
Late 19th Century
Roundwood became part of Trelissick's pleasure grounds with extensive landscaping.
1955
The Trelissick estate, including Roundwood, was donated to the National Trust by Ida Copeland.
Roundwood Promontory Fort dates back to the Iron Age, around 2,000 years ago. Built on a steep hill, it was designed to protect its inhabitants from invaders. The fort’s natural position, combined with man-made ramparts, provided excellent defence. Archaeologists believe it was a hub for local communities, where people would gather in times of danger. Evidence suggests it was occupied for several centuries, reflecting its importance to the people who lived in the area.
Roundwood Promontory Fort holds significant value as a well-preserved example of Iron Age defensive architecture. Its strategic location on a hilltop meant it was naturally protected on most sides, making it an ideal stronghold against potential invaders. The defensive ramparts and ditches enhanced its security, highlighting the importance of protecting the local population and resources.
The fort also offers insight into the social structure of the Iron Age, as these fortified settlements were often central places for trade, community gatherings, and leadership. By studying Roundwood, archaeologists can better understand the lifestyle, technology and challenges faced by people during that period. Today, it remains an important archaeological site, helping us piece together Cornwall’s ancient history and its connections to wider Britain.
Gallery
Roundwood Promontory Fort isn’t just rich in history; it’s also a haven for nature. The site’s elevated position provides a variety of habitats, including grasslands and scrubland, which support a wide range of wildlife. The fort’s ramparts and ditches create sheltered spaces, ideal for small animals and birds to nest and forage. The surrounding landscape has remained relatively untouched, allowing for the preservation of ancient trees and native plant life. Visitors to the fort can enjoy not only the historic significance of the site but also the diverse ecosystems that thrive in this protected environment.
The local flora at Roundwood Promontory Fort includes a mix of wild grasses, heather and ferns, which flourish on the well-drained slopes of the fort. Ancient oak and ash trees can be found in the surrounding areas, providing homes for woodland creatures. You may spot small mammals such as voles and shrews scurrying through the undergrowth, while birds like skylarks and buzzards often soar overhead. In the spring and summer, the site is alive with butterflies, bees and other pollinators, attracted by the abundant wildflowers that blanket the area, adding to its ecological importance.
Visitors play a crucial role in protecting Roundwood Promontory Fort and its natural surroundings. Stick to designated paths to avoid damaging the ancient earthworks and sensitive habitats. Take any litter home to keep the site clean for wildlife and other visitors. If you spot any rare plants or animals, enjoy them from a distance to avoid disturbing their habitat. By respecting the site, you help preserve it for future generations to enjoy.
Visitors play a crucial role in protecting Roundwood Promontory Fort and its natural surroundings. Stick to designated paths to avoid damaging the ancient earthworks and sensitive habitats. Take any litter home to keep the site clean for wildlife and other visitors. If you spot any rare plants or animals, enjoy them from a distance to avoid disturbing their habitat. By respecting the site, you help preserve it for future generations to enjoy.
Conserving Roundwood Promontory Fort requires ongoing care to protect both its historical structures and natural habitats. Efforts include regular maintenance of the ancient ramparts and pathways, preventing erosion caused by weather and visitor footfall. Conservation teams also monitor the flora and fauna to ensure local wildlife continues to thrive in this protected landscape.
One major challenge is balancing public access with preservation. High visitor numbers can cause damage to the fragile earthworks and disturb sensitive habitats. Additionally, invasive plant species pose a threat to native biodiversity. Continued efforts focus on raising awareness and promoting sustainable tourism to safeguard the fort for future generations.
