Top 12 Natural Monuments around Norton Malreward
Natural monuments around Norton Malreward offer diverse landscapes and unique geological features. This area, while small, is surrounded by significant natural sites and areas of outstanding natural beauty. Visitors can explore ancient woodlands, dramatic gorges, and historical stone circles. The region provides opportunities to observe rich biodiversity and varied ecosystems.
Best natural monuments around Norton Malreward
- The most popular natural monument is Stanton Drew Stone Circles and Cove, a natural monument and historical site that is the third largest…
Last updated: May 17, 2026
Stanton Drew Stone Circles and Cove
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Leigh Woods
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Giant Sequoia Trees
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Abbot's Pool
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Troopers Hill Chimney
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The Stanton Drew stone circles are located just outside the village of Stanton Drew in the English county of Somerset. The largest stone circle is the Great Circle, standing in a 113 metres in diameter and is in-fact the second largest stone circle to be discovered in Britain. After Avebury and It’s considered to be one of the largest Neolithic monuments to have ever been built. The date of the construction is not actually accurately known of, but it’s thought to have been built between 3000 and 2000 BCE. These standing stone circles of which have been studied since John Aubrey's visit in 1664. It was only made a scheduled monument of it is today in 1982. Please be aware that an entrance fee is charged by the landowner for any entry in among the grounds of the Stone Circles and any public access is at his discretion only. NO DOGS ALLOWED! As the land is used for agriculture purposes and usually has cattle grazing on the fields where the standing stones are. Please be aware that the English Heritage sites do not permit drone flying from or over sites in our care, by any circumstances except by contractors or partners undertaking flights for a specific purpose, who satisfy stringent CAA criteria, have the correct insurances and permissions, and are operating under controlled conditions only. Just having experienced this ourselves before.
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Cool little information stand here with information; did you know this species is the largest living thing on earth? The big ones can be 3 motorway lanes wide! They are sometimes called “vegetable monsters” and they were brought to the uk from California by the SS Great Britain!
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This is the third-largest complex of pre-historic standing stones in England. The 26 remaining standing stones are all that remains of the probably ceremonial stone circle constructed in the Neolithic period around 2500 BCE. Today the area is looked after by English Heritage and free to enter.
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Impressive 4500 year-old stone circle with some English Heritage info signage at the entrance. Take a minute to touch the stones and imagine the people who put them there. There’s an honesty box at the gate which suggests a £1 donation.
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Stanton Drew stone circle is 100% worth a visit. An ancient, neolithic complex of stone circles. There is so much history in this landscape; the nearby Pensford village was first officially recorded in 1151.
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Abbotts Pool is a lovely little lake surrounded by woodland. You reach the lake via a network of lanes and bridleways. It lies on the NCN Route 334. The pools were closed in 2020 due to littering and anti-social behaviour. Makes sure you leave no trace so that humans can enjoy the beautiful spot alongside its wildlife.
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Abbots Pool is a tranquil pond nestled within an idyllic mature woodland. The pond was originally part of a series of pools developed by medieval monks to farm fish. Due to some antisocial behaviour at the pond, activities such as swimming and barbecues have been banned. However, there are still lots of beautiful trails to explore in this nature reserve, which is home to much wildlife including deer, bats and birds.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What unique natural features can I explore around Norton Malreward?
The area boasts diverse natural features. You can discover the dramatic karst landscape of the Mendip Hills, featuring gorges and extensive cave systems like Cheddar Gorge. There are also unique woodlands, such as the broadleaf forests of Leigh Woods, and even a grove of Californian Redwoods at the Giant Sequoia Trees.
Are there any historical natural monuments in the area?
Yes, the region offers a fascinating blend of natural beauty and history. The Stanton Drew Stone Circles and Cove is a significant ancient monument, being the third largest complex of standing stones in England, constructed around 4,500 years ago. Additionally, Troopers Hill Chimney stands as a remnant of the area's industrial past within a nature reserve.
What kind of walking trails can I find near Norton Malreward's natural monuments?
You'll find a variety of walking trails. Leigh Woods offers peaceful, waymarked trails through diverse woodland. Chew Valley Lake provides several nature trails, including the Grebe Trail and Bittern Trail, suitable for various abilities. For more challenging hikes, the Mendip Hills offer extensive paths, including the iconic Cliff Top Walk at Cheddar Gorge. You can find many routes for walking in the area by exploring the Natural Monuments around Norton Malreward guide.
Are there family-friendly natural monuments suitable for children?
Absolutely! Many natural monuments in the area are great for families. Stanton Drew Stone Circles and Cove is an intriguing historical site for all ages. Leigh Woods and Giant Sequoia Trees offer engaging woodland walks. Chew Valley Lake has accessible nature trails and opportunities for birdwatching, making it a relaxing and educational visit for children.
Where can I go birdwatching or observe wildlife?
Chew Valley Lake is an internationally important site for birds, designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and a Special Protection Area (SPA), with over 260 species spotted. Leigh Woods is home to dormice and various butterflies, while the Mendip Hills support diverse fauna, including rare bat species and peregrine falcons at Cheddar Gorge.
What are the best places for scenic views?
For breathtaking panoramas, Troopers Hill Nature Reserve offers stunning views over Bristol and the River Avon. Leigh Woods provides excellent viewpoints over the Avon Gorge and the iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge. The Mendip Hills, particularly from the Cliff Top Walk at Cheddar Gorge, offer dramatic vistas across the Somerset Levels.
Can I go cycling or mountain biking near these natural monuments?
Yes, the area around Norton Malreward is excellent for cycling and mountain biking. Leigh Woods features dedicated mountain biking routes. The Mendip Hills also provide numerous trails suitable for cycling. For detailed routes, you can explore the Cycling around Norton Malreward and MTB Trails around Norton Malreward guides.
What makes the Mendip Hills an important natural monument?
The Mendip Hills are a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), renowned for their distinctive karst landscape formed from Carboniferous Limestone. This geological formation has created dramatic gorges, extensive cave systems, and unique surface features. The region is also vital for its semi-natural habitats, supporting diverse flora like the rare Cheddar pink flower and various bat species.
What is the best time of year to visit the natural monuments around Norton Malreward?
The natural monuments are enjoyable year-round, but each season offers a different experience. Spring brings wildflowers and new growth, while summer is ideal for longer walks and outdoor activities. Autumn showcases vibrant foliage, especially in woodlands like Leigh Woods. Winter can offer crisp, clear views and fewer crowds, though some trails might be muddy.
Are there any natural monuments that offer a blend of nature and industrial history?
Yes, Troopers Hill Nature Reserve is a prime example. Its unique landscape, with rocky crags and spoil heaps, was shaped by its industrial past of quarrying and mining. Today, it's a heathland habitat rich in biodiversity, offering a fascinating blend of natural reclamation and historical remnants like the old copper smelting chimney.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the natural monuments here?
Visitors frequently highlight the tranquility and unique character of the sites. For instance, Stanton Drew Stone Circles are appreciated for allowing visitors to enjoy the landmark in relative solitude compared to more famous sites. The peaceful walking trails and breathtaking viewpoints over the Avon Gorge at Leigh Woods are also highly praised.
Are there any natural monuments that are less crowded or considered 'hidden gems'?
While popular, Stanton Drew Stone Circles and Cove is often noted as being less visited than more famous examples like Stonehenge or Avebury, allowing for a more serene experience. Abbot's Pool, a tranquil pond nestled in idyllic woodland, offers beautiful trails away from the busiest spots.
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