Robert Hanbidge, Archaeologist and WWHS Committee member kindly brought a small group of the society’s members on a guided walk up to Brusselstown Ring on Sunday 22 March 2026. En route Robert shared with us his considerable store of knowledge about Brussselstown enclosure, which has not yet been accurately dated. 2025 excavations by Queens University Belfast at four locations dated internal occupation to the Late Bronze Age (1210-780BC) and the Early Iron Age (750-400BC). Spinans/Brusselstown consists of three hillforts which, when combined, cover an area of c131 ha/323 acres, making it the largest hillfort in Western Europe. We learned that Liam Price linked the important early medieval royal fortress of Dún Bolg with Brusselstown. Dún Bolg is a placename associated with many famous battles which are recounted in medieval literature.
We are very grateful to Robert for arranging this unique opportunity for members to visit such an important and special place. Thank you also to the local landowner who facilitated our trip.
Photo: Robert Hanbidge en route to Brusselstown, with Keadeen mountain in the background.