7-breathtaking-views-and-viewpoints-in-English-Somerset
April 11, 2025
Somerset, located in southwest England, is a region that delights with its natural beauty and rich history. It's a place where picturesque hills meet green valleys and historic castles tower over the landscape, offering unforgettable views. In this article, we'll take you on a tour of seven of Somerset's most breathtaking viewpoints. Each of these places offers a unique experience, allowing you to enjoy the diversity and charm of the English countryside. Whether you're an avid photographer, a nature lover, or just looking for a quiet place to contemplate, Somerset has something to delight you. Get ready to discover the region's hidden treasures, from dramatic cliffs to tranquil hills and historic estates. Each of these vantage points not only offers stunning views, but also serves as a gateway to a deeper understanding of the culture and history of this fascinating corner of England.
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Views, that will take your breath away
Start our journey from the National Trust-owned Brean Down Fort, an impressive sea fort perched atop a natural peninsula. This site offers panoramic views of the Bristol Channel and the surrounding coastline. Located 97 meters above sea level, the fort provides an unforgettable experience for history and nature lovers. Visitors can admire the dramatic cliffs, watch wild birds and enjoy the fresh sea air. Be sure to visit during low tide, as it is then safe to explore the surrounding rocks and beaches. The price of admission is moderate and parking is available on site.
Another item on our list is the Mendip Hills National Landscape, an area of outstanding natural beauty. These limestone hills offer a number of hiking trails, each leading to breathtaking viewpoints. The highest points of the Mendip Hills offer panoramic views of the Somerset Levels, the Bristol Channel and even the distant hills of Wales. It's an ideal destination for families looking for an active holiday in nature. Admission to Mendip Hills is free, making it an excellent option for frugal travelers.
Alfred's Tower, the third item on our list, is an impressive 49-meter-high folly brick tower that offers some of the best views in Somerset. Built in the 18th century, the tower stands on the border of three counties: Somerset, Dorset and Wiltshire. After climbing the 205 steps to the top, visitors are rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding woods and fields. On sunny days, visibility reaches up to 30 miles. Alfred's Tower is part of the Stourhead estate and requires a moderate entrance fee.
National Trust - Walton Hill is another place not to be missed on the list of lovers of beautiful views. This hill offers spectacular views of the Somerset Levels and Glastonbury Tor. The top of the hill is easily accessible by a short walk from the parking lot, making it ideal for families with children or those with limited mobility. At the top is a tower of spiritual significance, which adds to the mystical charm of the place. Admission is free, and the only cost may be the parking fee.
When comparing the four sites, it's worth noting that each offers a unique experience. Brean Down Fort and Alfred's Tower require more physical exertion, but reward you with incredible views and historical context. Mendip Hills and Walton Hill, on the other hand, are more accessible and offer a quieter experience surrounded by nature. Admission prices range from free (Mendip Hills, Walton Hill) to moderate (Brean Down Fort, Alfred's Tower). All of these places have one thing in common - they provide unforgettable views and the opportunity to connect deeply with the beauty of the English countryside.
Historic gems with breathtaking views
Continuing our tour of Somerset's most beautiful viewpoints, we can't leave out the National Trust's Dunster Castle and Watermill. This medieval castle, which towers over the surrounding countryside, offers not only a fascinating history lesson, but also breathtaking views of the Somerset coast and Exmoor National Park. The castle is surrounded by beautiful gardens, which are a tourist attraction in themselves. The castle walls offer a panoramic view of the picturesque town of Dunster and extensive green spaces. Note the historic water mill, which adds to the charm of the entire complex. The price of admission to the castle is moderate, but it is worth remembering that members of the National Trust have free entry.
The next item on our list is the National Trust-owned Lytes Cary Manor, a charming estate dating back to the Medieval and Renaissance periods. While the estate itself may not offer such spectacular views as high hills or cliffs, its gardens and surrounding grounds provide a peaceful, idyllic setting typical of the English countryside. The gardens overlook the surrounding fields and meadows, creating the perfect backdrop for a relaxing stroll or picnic. Lytes Cary Manor is the perfect place for history and architecture lovers who also appreciate peaceful, picturesque landscapes. Admission prices are moderate, and the property also offers a small café where you can relax and enjoy the view.
National Trust - Holnicote Estate is the last, but definitely not the least, item on our list. This sprawling estate encompasses a variety of landscapes, from the coast to the hills of Exmoor, offering visitors a wide range of experiences and views. Particularly noteworthy are the viewpoints at Selworthy Beacon and Dunkery Beacon, which offer spectacular panoramic views of the Bristol Channel and surrounding hills. Holnicote Estate is a paradise for nature lovers and landscape photographers, offering countless opportunities to explore and enjoy Somerset's natural beauty. Admission to the estate is free, although a small fee may be charged for some attractions.
When comparing the three sites, it's worth noting their diversity. Dunster Castle offers a combination of history and beautiful views, ideal for families with children interested in both education and beautiful scenery. Lytes Cary Manor is a quieter option, perfect for those seeking relaxation in a charming, historic setting. Holnicote Estate, on the other hand, is the best choice for active travelers and wildlife enthusiasts, offering the most diverse landscapes and recreational opportunities.
In terms of accessibility, Dunster Castle and Lytes Cary Manor are more accommodating for those with limited mobility, offering amenities such as elevators and wheelchair-accessible paths. Holnicote Estate, due to its natural character, can be more physically demanding, especially when reaching the highest viewpoints.
Admission prices to these sites are comparable and in the moderate range, with Holnicote Estate offering the most free options. All three sites are managed by the National Trust, meaning that members of the organization can enjoy free admission to all attractions.
Whether your preference is for historic castles, tranquil gardens or wild landscapes, these three sites offer unforgettable experiences and views that will linger in your memory. Each is a unique part of the mosaic that is Somerset's beauty, allowing visitors to experience the diversity and charm of this unique region of England.
Practical tips for Somerset explorers
After reviewing Somerset's seven breathtaking viewpoints, it's worth summarizing some practical tips to help you fully enjoy these remarkable places.
First of all, when planning a visit to Somerset, it is worth considering the time of year. Each offers different attractions and sights. Spring and summer are ideal seasons for admiring the blooming gardens at Lytes Cary Manor or exploring the verdant hills of the Mendip Hills. Autumn, on the other hand, delights with the spectacular colors of the leaves, especially visible from Alfred's Tower or at Holnicote Estate. Winter, though colder, offers magical, misty landscapes, especially beautiful from the perspective of Dunster Castle or Brean Down Fort.
In terms of accessibility, most of the places described are suitable for families with children and people with limited mobility. However, it is advisable to check the details on the official websites beforehand. For example, climbing to the top of Alfred's Tower can be a challenge for those with mobility problems, while the gardens of Lytes Cary Manor are easily accessible to all.
Admission prices to the attractions described range from free (as with most areas of Mendip Hills or Walton Hill) to moderate (as with Dunster Castle or Alfred's Tower). Consider purchasing a membership to the National Trust, which provides free admission to many of the sites described, which can be financially advantageous when planning a longer stay in the region.
For photography enthusiasts, each of these sites offers unique opportunities to capture the beauty of Somerset. Be sure to bring the right equipment, especially a wide-angle lens for landscape photography. The best light for photography usually occurs in the early morning or late afternoon, so it's worth planning visits during these hours.
In terms of transportation, Somerset is relatively well connected, but some of the more remote sites, such as Holnicote Estate and Alfred's Tower, are easiest to reach by car. Consider renting a car if you plan to visit several places in one day.
For those interested in learning more about the history and culture of the region, many of the places described offer audio guides or the opportunity to participate in organized guided tours. This is especially valuable at places like Dunster Castle and Lytes Cary Manor.
It's also worth remembering to be properly prepared for hiking, especially when exploring the Mendip Hills or Holnicote Estate. Comfortable trekking shoes, appropriate clothing and a supply of water are essential.
Finally, I encourage you to explore the local culture and cuisine in more depth. Somerset is famous for its cider and cheese production, and many of the places described have cafes or restaurants serving local delicacies. It's a great way to complement the visual experience with a taste experience specific to the region.
All in all, Somerset offers a remarkable variety of landscapes and experiences. From the dramatic cliffs of Brean Down Fort to the tranquil gardens of Lytes Cary Manor, each of the places described has its own unique character and charm. Whether you're a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or just looking for beautiful views, Somerset has something to delight you. I hope this guide will inspire you to discover the beauty of this remarkable region of England and create your own unforgettable memories.
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