The Iron Age, spanning 800BC and 43AD, marked a period of strife, evidenced by the fortress's design. This unique historical design has informed much about the nature of conflict and defences in the Iron Age. The hill's name, 'Shackleton Beacon,' originates from the Anglo-Saxon 'Sceacere Dun,' meaning robber's hill. The hillfort and its associated history are crucial components of County Durham's historical landscape, offering us a door into the area's prehistoric past. Despite centuries passing and landscapes changing, Shackleton Beacon hillfort remains a silent but powerful testament to our Iron Age ancestors.

Source: The Times January 15, 2024 06:00 UTC