Snodhill Castle is a romantic and picturesque ruin, perched above the tiny settlement of Snodhill in Herefordshire's Golden Valley. Recent investigations suggest it was one of the first castles in Britain to receive masonry defences in around 1100. Most castles at this time would have been constructed from wood.

The castle's former might, coupled with its strategic position, would have made it a fortress of some importance. It has undoubtedly played a role in the various wars that have been fought in this border country through the ages.

Clive G

January 14, 2026

Hiking

Although there is not much left of the castle, this is an atmospheric place that is well worth the detour from the trail. It also looks like many of the stones from the castle were borrowed to build the nearby farm!

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Best routes to Snodhill Castle Ruins

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1. Snodhill & Dorstone loop from Peterchurch

12.4km

03:24

200m

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Moderate

5.0

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2. Dorstone Castle – Snodhill Castle Ruins loop from Dorstone

5.09km

01:21

50m

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Easy

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3. Dorstone Castle – Snodhill Castle Ruins loop from Dorstone

14.2km

04:06

360m

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Moderate

Details

Informations

Elevation 180 m

Weather

Today

Friday 6 February

8°C

4°C

83 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 12.0 km/h

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Location: Peterchurch, South Wales, Wales, United Kingdom

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Snodhill Castle Ruins

1. Snodhill & Dorstone loop from Peterchurch

2. Dorstone Castle – Snodhill Castle Ruins loop from Dorstone

3. Dorstone Castle – Snodhill Castle Ruins loop from Dorstone

Other Popular Places to Check Out

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