Hill Forts

The hill forts were houses or farmsteads enclosed in a circular bank or wall. Some were built in stone where it was plentiful or where status or enmity demanded, but most had earth banks, probably topped with a wooden palisade. Many of these were still in use up until medieval times

There are two excellent examples of hill forts in the Clara area. Raflacony is probably the most well known of the two and can be seen from the main Clara Road. The second of the two is at Mount Forest and is not as easily seen. Both of these hill forts could easily be mistaken for a small copse of trees. The reason for this is that many people believe it is bad luck to cut trees from these sites, which are also known as Fairy Forts

At first glance it would seem that Raflacony hill fort was impregnable. But the only defence that this monument has now is a huge amount of trees. Although at certain intervals around its outer bank, there are places that you can get into it.

Raflacony Hill Fort

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Once inside the fort the trees are not really a problem, and there is still much room to wander around. I was then greeted by the inner bank, which had bluebells growing nearly all around its perimeter. In places the inner bank was quite steep, and it seemed obvious to me that southern face of the fort was more protected than the north.

The inner bank and ditch

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Just to the right of the tree in the centre of this photo is the "gateway". It is break in the bank that allows you to walk right in unhindred. This exit / enterence leads on to the outer bank, where there is another exit / enterence the same as this.

The old gateway

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One of many great views that can been seen from the top of this old place.

The view from Raflacony

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This photo clearly shows the banks and ditches that surround this ancient monument.

The inner ditch and bank

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A picture from the outside of the "fort".

Hill Fort

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One of the spectacular views that can be seen from the top of this monument

Hill Fort

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