Families in Shropshire can take a step back in time this summer with the help of a new interactive trail designed to bring the Iron Age history of a local landmark to life.
The Forestry Commission in the West Midlands have teamed up with Interpretation Shropshire and other partners to develop the innovative outdoor family activity, which aims to offer a fun way to learn about Bury Ditches – one of the best examples of an Iron Age hill fort in the country.  The new trail uses a fictional Iron Age boy known as ‘Llew’ as part of its visual theme. Llew is the son of a hunter who has been playing on the hill and has lost some items precious to his father. Visitors must help him find them and learn more about the site’s 2,500 year history at the same time.
Georgina Sharp, Recreation Ranger for the Forestry Commission in the Marches Area, said:
“Bury Ditches is one of the best-preserved hill forts in the country, so we’re hoping that the new Iron Age trail will encourage more people to discover its historic past.
“It’s also a great way for families to get active and enjoy the spectacular views from the top of the hill. There are plenty of trails for walking and cycling at Bury Ditches too.”
The trail leads up to the highest point of the fort, where breathtaking 360-degree views of the surrounding countryside can be seen. Families are also encouraged to look out for a series of woodcarvings on their way up the hill. 
As part of the project, a relief plan of the fort and information in Braille have been introduced close to the car park to offer accessible information for the visually impaired. 
The Forestry Commission also provides 3 waymarked walks, and a car park with bicycle stands and picnic tables at Bury Ditches to get people out and active in the forest, as part of its ‘Active Woods Campaign’.
Bury Ditches is located along a country lane between Clunton and Lydbury North.