Geological Sites | Leeds
| Bradford | Calderdale
| Kirklees | Wakefield
 STATUS: RIGS
OTHER DESIGNATIONS: Ancient Monument
COUNTY: West Yorkshire
DISTRICT: Kirklees
OS GRID REF SE 152 140
OS 1:50,000 Landranger 110 Sheffield and Huddersfield
OS 1:25,000 EXPLORER 288 Bradford and Huddersfield
BGS 1:50,000 Sheet 77 Huddersfield
FIRST DESIGNATED by West Yorkshire RIGS Group in 1996
DATE OF MOST RECENT SURVEY Frequent visits to Castle Hill are undertaken
by members of West Yorkshire Geology Trust
SCIENTIFIC INFORMATION produced by Ian Chisholm
SITE DESCRIPTION:
Castle Hill is an important geomorphological site where the relationship
between the underlying geology and surface topography can be seen.
The slopes below Castle Hill form the Coal
Measures escarpment where alternating deposits of shale and harder sandstones
form a series of slopes and benches.
HISTORICAL ASSOCIATIONS:
Castle Hill, with its triple system of ramparts and ditches, is a fine
example of a Northern British
hillfort. A series of excavations completed in 1972 identified 3 periods
of occupation; Neolithic,
Iron Age and medieval. The Jubilee Tower constructed on the summit plateau
in 1899 commemorates the Diamond Jubilee of Queen Victoria.
 EDUCATIONAL VALUE:
This is a unique site for educational and recreational visits, where
geology, geomorphology and archaeology combine to form a distinctive
landmark in the Huddersfield district.
AESTHETIC CHARACTERISTICS:
Castle Hill is an excellent viewpoint with panoramic views of both Millstone
Grit and Coal Measures landscapes. The wooded areas in the valleys
around Castle Hill provide sanctuary to flora and fauna.
ACCESS AND SAFETY:
Park in the lay-by along Lumb Lane and then walk up the steps towards
Jubilee Tower. It is possible to use the public car park adjacent to
Jubilee Tower, although the car access to the top of Castle Hill is
poor.
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