Wincobank Hill

Wincobank Hill, a prominent feature in the Lower Don Valley, carries a rich history. The name "Wincobank" evolved from "Winkley," likely derived from "Winklow" (Old English "hlaw," meaning hill), and later became "Wincowe" in 1442, originating from the Anglo-Saxon name "Wineca" and Old Norse "haugr," meaning "Wineca's hill."

At the hill's summit lies an Iron Age hill fort, covering 2.5 acres. This ancient fortification features a stone wall rampart and an external ditch, constructed around 500 BC during a time of tribal conflict. Earlier Mesolithic flint tools suggest the hill was frequented as far back as 8,000-3,000 BC.

The fort might have been occupied during the early Roman period to resist Roman advances, with the nearby Roman Ridge earthwork possibly built after the Roman Empire's fall to defend against Anglo-Saxons.

Adjacent to the fort once stood the Parkyn Jepson Tower, locally known as "Wincobank Castle." Used as an observation post during WWII, it was demolished in the 1960s.

The hill's western slopes are home to ancient coppice wood, dominated by oak and birch, which was managed until 1904 when the Duke of Norfolk donated the land for public use. The wood was last harvested for pit props by Grimesthorpe Colliery, marking the end of its industrial use.