Ham Hill Visitor Centre: A fantastic start!

We’re thrilled to share that the newly opened Visitor Centre at Ham Hill has received incredible support from both the community and visitors. In our first 2 weeks of opening, we’ve welcomed more than 12,000 visitors – far beyond our expectations!

A huge thank you to our Visitor Centre team for their outstanding professionalism and commitment, ensuring every guest enjoys a warm and welcoming experience.

Thanks to funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund, the Wolfson Foundation, and other generous benefactors, the Uncovering Ham Hill’s Past for its Future project will continue for another 2 years. Here’s what’s coming up:

• Pathway improvements outside the Visitor Centre, with Hamstone surfacing to create a smoother, more accessible route. This work will be completed when the weather improves, allowing us to install outdoor furniture for visitors’ comfort.
• New way markers and information boards to help you explore Ham Hill’s rich history and wildlife across the site.
• Construction of a natural play space, the Hillfort Hideout Play Area, designed to blend seamlessly with the landscape.
• Planting of native wildflower species around the Visitor Centre to reflect the geology and heritage of this Iron Age hillfort.
• A review of customer feedback with the aim of expanding our café menu with delicious new options, including treats for 4‑legged friends. Dogs are welcome in the café – please keep them on a short lead and ensure they remain well behaved.
• A brand‑new exhibition opening in February.
• Nearly 30 volunteers joining the Visitor Centre team to help answer your questions.
• Conservation work, supported by Historic England and a dedicated funding grant, to restore and preserve the important historic lime kiln.

If you haven’t had the chance to visit yet, we can’t wait to welcome you. Come and discover the fascinating stories of Ham Hill and enjoy a relaxing break at the Lime Kiln Café.