A long history at Ham Hill
Ham Hill has a long and interesting history.
People first lived here over 5,000 years ago, during the Stone Age. Archaeologists have found many flint tools, including axes. People continued to live here through the Bronze Age, and items such as metalwork, pottery and burial sites have been found across the hillfort. Because Ham Hill sits high above the surrounding land, it would have offered wide views across the countryside.
Life in the Iron Age
The Iron Age had the biggest impact on Ham Hill. For more than 200 years, the local tribe known as the Durotriges built the steep earth banks that you can still see today. They used antler picks and small iron tools to shape them. Many Iron Age objects have been found here, including tools, jewellery, storage pits, pottery and burials.
The Romans arrive
After around AD 43, the Romans took over the hillfort. They built an army base and a large villa with 19 rooms. They also continued building the Fosse Way, a Roman road that runs from Lincoln to Exeter and now lies beneath parts of the A303.
Medieval Ham Hill
Later on, a medieval village grew in Witcombe Valley. You can still see the outlines of this village today, and there is a lovely walk down to the medieval pond.
A place for protest and change
In the 1870s, Ham Hill became an important place for workers’ rights. George Mitchell organised large gatherings here, where hundreds of workers marched every Whitsun Monday to call for fair pay and better conditions, with banners and marching bands.
Many of the objects found at Ham Hill can be seen at the Museum of Somerset in Taunton. You can also find out more at the Visitor Centre and on the South West Heritage Trust website.
Find out more
Many of the finds that have been discovered at Ham Hill can be viewed at the Museum of Somerset in Taunton. More information can be found on the Southwest Heritage Trust website and at the Visitor Centre.