Best attractions and places to see around North Barrow, located in Somerset, England, include historical landmarks, cultural sites, and natural features. This region offers a diverse landscape of rolling hills and green fields, providing opportunities for outdoor activities. Visitors can explore ancient sites, historical churches, and scenic viewpoints. The area is rich in both historical significance and natural beauty.
Last updated: June 22, 2026
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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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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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Cadbury Castle is a Bronze and Iron Age Hillfort and has the most spectacular views across the Dorset Countryside. It is an archaeological paradise, with evidence of settlements from the Neolithic period through to the Romans.
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Hidden slow flowing stream with good footpath on the way into Bruton
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Turn right out of the car park and then left by the houses and straight up. We turned right after the second gate around the hill. Not a good route for buggies if you have kids, best to carry them
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Entry point to dip in West Lydford, beautiful swim to the Bridge
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There are now lots of signs around the church stating no access to the river, however if you turn left out of the church car park and head back towards the river in that direction then there is access to the river there
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Closed for eating in during Covid, but open for takeaways. Good sélénographie drinks, breads, cakes and pizza.
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North Barrow and its surroundings are rich in history. You can visit St Vincent's Church, Ashington, a petite 13th-century parish church known for its Hamstone accents and rare 'lantern' bellcote. Another significant site is the View from Cadbury Castle, an ancient Bronze and Iron Age hillfort offering spectacular views and evidence of settlements from Neolithic to Roman times. Nearby, you'll also find Nunney Castle, a 14th-century moated castle, and the Glastonbury Tribunal, a late 15th-century stone townhouse.
Yes, the region boasts beautiful natural features and scenic viewpoints. The View from Cadbury Castle provides breathtaking panoramic views across the Dorset countryside. You can also enjoy the picturesque Path Along the River Brue into Bruton, where the stream runs under houses. For those interested in nature reserves, areas like Dolebury Warren and Babcary Meadows offer rich biodiversity and opportunities for walks.
For a refreshing wild swim, head to the River Brue Swimming Spot at West Lydford Bridge. This beautiful area offers about 330 feet (100 meters) of flower-lined water, ending with a weir and a bridge, perfect for a dip.
The North Barrow area is ideal for various outdoor activities. You can explore numerous hiking and walking trails through the rolling hills and green fields of the Somerset countryside. Cycling enthusiasts can find routes like the 'Somerset Levels Wetlands – Cheddar Gorge Cliff Road loop' or the 'Cadbury Castle Hillfort – All Saints Church, Castle Cary loop'. For mountain biking, options include the 'Stourhead House and Gardens – Alfred's Tower Climb loop'. You can find more details on these activities in the dedicated guides for Cycling around North Barrow, Running Trails around North Barrow, and MTB Trails around North Barrow.
Yes, several attractions cater to families. The St Vincent's Church, Ashington, with its historical significance, can be an interesting visit for older children. The Path Along the River Brue into Bruton offers a pleasant, easy walk. Additionally, the Somerset Rural Life Museum in Glastonbury provides insights into the region's rural history, which can be engaging for all ages.
In Bruton, you'll find At The Chapel, an old chapel converted into a modern restaurant, cafe, and bar. It offers homemade pastries, coffee, and pizzas, with an outdoor terrace and bike parking, making it a perfect stop for walkers or cyclists.
Beyond the more prominent sites, you can explore ancient locations like Stanton Drew Stone Circle, which is over 4,500 years old. The Priddy Nine Barrows and Ashen Hill Barrow Cemetery are also nearby, offering a glimpse into Bronze Age long barrows and Neolithic burial sites.
Yes, the broader area around North Barrow offers several notable museums. The Somerset Rural Life Museum in Glastonbury provides insights into the region's agricultural past. For those interested in transport, the Royal Navy Fleet Air Arm Museum and the Haynes Motor Museum are also within reach.
From Cadbury Castle, you can expect truly spectacular panoramic views across the Dorset countryside. The elevated position of this ancient hillfort provides extensive vistas, making it a popular spot for photography and enjoying the landscape.
St Vincent's Church, Ashington, is a petite 13th-century parish church notable for its charming Hamstone accents and a rare 'lantern' bellcote, believed to have been added in the late 15th or early 16th century. It's a Grade I-listed building that retains original architectural features and Jacobean furnishings, including box pews and a pulpit from the 17th century.
Yes, within a reasonable distance, you can visit Stourhead, renowned for its picturesque gardens. Another historic property to explore is Lytes Cary Manor, a National Trust property offering beautiful grounds and a glimpse into the past.


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