Attractions and Places To See around Martock - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Martock, Somerset, include a variety of historical sites, natural trails, and picturesque villages. The area features structures built from local hamstone, giving it a distinct aesthetic. Visitors can explore monuments, historic houses, and scenic lanes that offer insights into the region's heritage and natural beauty. Martock provides opportunities for discovering both cultural landmarks and outdoor paths.
Best attractions and places to see around Martock
- The most popular attractions is Ham Hill War Memorial and Stone Circle, a man-made monument commemorating various conflicts. It serves as a testimony to the impact of war and a reminder for peace, with a nearby pub offering refreshments.
- Another must-see spot is Hollow Lane, a trail that carves between Hamdon and Butcher's Hill. This path offers a steady climb through thick woodland, providing a distinct natural experience.
- Visitors also love Dillington House, a historical site set amongst parkland and gardens. This 16th-century manor, rebuilt in the 19th century, has historical significance and architectural interest.
- Martock is known for its historical sites, natural trails, and charming settlements. The area offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient churches to scenic lanes and historic houses.
- The attractions around Martock are appreciated by the komoot community, with 37 upvotes and 17 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 5, 2026
Ham Hill War Memorial and Stone Circle
Highlight • Monument
Second World War (1939-1945), First World War (1914-1918), Northern Ireland Conflict; The Troubles (1969-1998)
Maker
Ham Hill and Doulting Stone Company (Makers)
Mr W. Bussell of Montacute (Designer)
Ceremony
Unknown
Date: 19 July 1923
Attended by: HRH Prince of Wales KG laid a bronze laurel wreath at the foot of the memorial (to whose column it was later fixed).
Unveiled
Date: 26 September 1920
Attended by: Reverend E. Skilton
Dedicated
Date: 26 September 1920
Attended by: Reverend E. Skilton performed the service. Those present included relatives of the Fallen, and villagers
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St Vincent's Church, Ashington
Highlight • Historical Site
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Dillington House
Highlight • Historical Site
During the Second World War, the house was part of 'Fortress Ilminster' as part of the Taunton Stop Line, a plan to protect against Nazi invasion. Tanks and gun emplacements stood along a long drive, which is now a public footpath.
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Hollow Lane
Highlight • Trail
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Norton-sub-Hamdon Village
Highlight • Settlement
Norton-sub-Hamdon is home to a manor house of 17th-century origins and a water mill dating back from around the same time. In the grounds of the Church of St Mary the Virgin, there’s a 17th-century stone dovecote. Although you can’t go inside, it contains 400 stone nests and is said to have provided pigeons for the manor.
There’s an old pub here if you’re looking for somewhere to put your feet up, otherwise, simply walking around the hamlet is like stepping back in time.
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Tips from the Community
However, such war memorials, which one encounters so frequently along the way, regardless of nationality, language, or name, are always a testimony – still significant and relevant today – to the horrors of war and tyranny. They therefore all have two essential functions, and this continues anew for each generation: -1- To commemorate and remember the victims -2- To remind people of the need to maintain peace
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In the parish of Chilton Cantelo, Somerset | c13th, Grade 1. Interior includes Jacobean furnishings. Box pews and pulpit with a tester from the c17th Although lacking a tower, it has a rare ‘lantern’ bellcote, likely added in the late 15th or early c16th One of only 6 churches in England dedicated to this Spanish Saint The recent dating of the treble bell (1290) makes it quite a remarkable piece quite possibly one of the oldest still hanging in England.
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Dillington House was built originally in the 16th century, but re-built in the 19th century. Recently, Dillington House was used by Somerset Council as an event venue and a place to run adult education courses. However the council has stopped this as of September 2023.
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The Church of St. Vincent, a petite structure with origins dating back to 1189-1280, displays charming Hamstone accents and is crowned by a clay tile roof. Its walls are constructed from lias rubble. Remarkably, the church doesn't possess a tower; rather, it boasts an uncommon 'lantern' bellcote, thought to have been appended in the late 15th or early 16th century. In 1878, the church underwent a restoration process.
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Hollow Lane is a great example of a Hollow Way, a sunken lane typical of this area of the country. These ancient lanes are cut into the landscape but we're not entirely sure why. It could be simply due to erosion by booth people and animals over 100s of years, exacerbated by water run off. They may also have been cut initially to make animal heading easier and to provide protection from the weather. What ever the cause they make for very atmospheric riding!
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Commemoration Second World War (1939-1945), First World War (1914-1918), Northern Ireland Conflict; The Troubles (1969-1998) Maker Ham Hill and Doulting Stone Company (Makers) Mr W. Bussell of Montacute (Designer) Ceremony Unknown Date: 19 July 1923 Attended by: HRH Prince of Wales KG laid a bronze laurel wreath at the foot of the memorial (to whose column it was later fixed). Unveiled Date: 26 September 1920 Attended by: Reverend E. Skilton Dedicated Date: 26 September 1920 Attended by: Reverend E. Skilton performed the service. Those present included relatives of the Fallen, and villagers
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There is a single pub called the “The Prince Of Wales” at Hamhill, which sells, ice cream, ales, ciders, and food… With out door seating, overlooking the rolling Slopes.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there family-friendly attractions around Martock?
Yes, several attractions in the Martock area are suitable for families. Dillington House, with its historic parkland and gardens, offers a pleasant setting for a family visit. The charming Norton-sub-Hamdon Village, known for its unique Hamstone architecture and a 17th-century dovecote, is also family-friendly for a stroll. Additionally, St Vincent's Church, Ashington, a historic church with unique architectural features, welcomes visitors of all ages.
What kind of historical sites can I visit near Martock?
The Martock area is rich in history. You can explore the poignant Ham Hill War Memorial and Stone Circle, a monument commemorating various conflicts. Dillington House, a 16th-century manor rebuilt in the 19th century, offers insights into the region's past. The historic St Vincent's Church, Ashington, dating back to the 13th century, features original architectural elements and unique furnishings. The picturesque Norton-sub-Hamdon Village also boasts a manor house and a water mill from the 17th century.
Are there good walking or hiking trails near Martock's attractions?
Yes, the area around Martock offers various walking and hiking opportunities. For a unique natural experience, you can explore Hollow Lane, a trail that carves through thick woodland between Hamdon and Butcher's Hill, offering a steady climb. For more options, you can find numerous hiking routes, including easy and moderate trails, in the Hiking around Martock guide.
What are some unique natural features or trails to explore?
One distinct natural feature is Hollow Lane, an atmospheric trail that winds through dense woodland, creating an 'enchanted' feeling as you climb between Hamdon and Butcher's Hill. While not a natural feature itself, the Ham Hill War Memorial and Stone Circle is set on Ham Hill, which offers expansive views of the surrounding natural landscape.
Can I find pubs or places for refreshments near the attractions?
Yes, there are options for refreshments. Near the Ham Hill War Memorial and Stone Circle, you'll find 'The Prince Of Wales' pub, which offers ice cream, ales, ciders, and food with outdoor seating overlooking the slopes. In Norton-sub-Hamdon Village, there is also an old pub where you can relax after exploring the hamlet.
What outdoor activities are available in the Martock area besides hiking?
Beyond hiking, the Martock area is great for other outdoor pursuits. You can find a variety of running trails in the Running Trails around Martock guide, with routes ranging from moderate to difficult. Cycling enthusiasts can explore numerous routes, including easy and moderate options, detailed in the Cycling around Martock guide.
Are there any villages near Martock known for their unique architecture?
Yes, Norton-sub-Hamdon Village is particularly notable for its architecture. Many of its buildings are constructed from local hamstone, which has a distinctive yellow hue and gives the village a very picturesque aesthetic. Walking through the hamlet feels like stepping back in time.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Martock?
Visitors appreciate the blend of historical significance and natural beauty. The Ham Hill War Memorial and Stone Circle is valued for its commemorative aspect and the peaceful views. Hollow Lane is often described as an 'amazing' and 'atmospheric' climb through woodland. The charm of the Hamstone buildings in villages like Norton-sub-Hamdon and the historical depth of places like Dillington House are also frequently highlighted.
Are there any hidden gems or less-known outdoor spots near Martock?
While not strictly 'hidden,' Hollow Lane offers a unique and immersive natural experience that feels somewhat secluded as you ride or walk through its thick woodland. It's a less conventional 'attraction' but highly rated for its atmospheric climb.
What is the significance of Hamstone in the Martock area?
Hamstone is a local building material unique to nearby Ham Hill, characterized by its distinctive yellow hue. It plays a significant role in the aesthetic of the region, particularly evident in villages like Norton-sub-Hamdon, where many buildings are constructed from it, lending a particularly pretty and historic appearance to the area. St Vincent's Church, Ashington also displays charming Hamstone accents.
Are there any circular walks around Martock's attractions?
While specific circular walks for individual attractions aren't detailed here, the Hiking around Martock guide offers several routes, including loops like the 'View of Ham Hill – The Masons Arms loop' and the 'Market House – The Old Court House, Martock loop,' which are generally easy and provide opportunities to explore the area's highlights.
Most popular routes around Martock
Most popular attractions around Martock
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