Prehistory
Central Hampshire was settled as long ago as the Neolithic period (4000 - 2500BC), though burial mounds are the only visible features of the period. The first evidence for settlements - often groups of two or three roundhouses - comes from the Bronze Age (2500 - 800BC), when metalworking skills were also introduced to the area.
By the Iron Age (800BC - 43AD), the landscape was a highly developed complex of farmsteads and small villages connected by tracks and set amongst fields, stock enclosures, pastures and woodland. Hillforts, were constructed as centres for trade, defence and religion. The area around Winchester began to be a focal point.
300BC The hillfort on, what is now known as St Catherine's Hill, was constructed. It is a mile from the city centre and is an easy and extremely pleasant walk from the city centre. The views over the city make this a 'must do' for any visitor.