Best attractions and places to see around Long Load, a village in Somerset, England, offers access to a variety of nearby points of interest. The area features historical landmarks, scenic natural features, and cultural sites. Visitors can explore the surrounding countryside, which provides a diverse range of attractions.
Last updated: June 22, 2026
Highlight • Monument
Tip by
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
Highlight • Settlement
Tip by
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Long Load.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
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
2
0
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.
0
0
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.
2
0
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!
0
1
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
3
0
St Michael's Hill is situated approximately 10-15 minute walk from the road going through Montacute village… There is a tower upon it, which you can access, and climb the spiral stairs to look out across southern Somerset. Worth a visit for the view, even if only once…
1
0
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.
2
0
This is an amazing climb along a lane that carves between Hamdon and Butcher's Hill. You ride between thick woodland that makes you feel like you are entering another world. The climb is steady and not too hard on the legs.
1
0
The area around Long Load is rich in history. You can visit the Ham Hill War Memorial and Stone Circle, a significant monument commemorating those who served in various conflicts. Another must-see is St Michael's Tower on St Michael's Hill, an 18th-century folly offering panoramic views. The village of Norton-sub-Hamdon also features a 17th-century manor house and water mill, while St Vincent's Church, Ashington, dates back to the 13th century.
For breathtaking views, head to St Michael's Tower on St Michael's Hill. You can climb the spiral stairs of this 18th-century folly for expansive vistas over Montacute village and the serene Somerset countryside.
Yes, the village of Norton-sub-Hamdon is particularly notable for its buildings constructed from the distinctive yellow Ham Hill stone, giving it a picturesque aesthetic. Additionally, St Vincent's Church, Ashington, features an uncommon 'lantern' bellcote instead of a traditional tower, believed to have been added in the late 15th or early 16th century.
The area offers a variety of cycling options. You can find numerous touring bicycle routes, including those exploring the Somerset Levels, with distances ranging from easy to moderate. For road cycling enthusiasts, there are also several routes available, such as the 'Little Bakery loop from Langport' or longer rides like 'Hollow Lane – Sherborne Abbey loop'. You can find more details on these routes in the Cycling around Long Load and Road Cycling Routes around Long Load guides.
Yes, there are several mountain biking trails near Long Load. Routes vary in difficulty from easy to moderate, with options like the 'Market House – Hedgecock Hill Wood loop from Martock' or shorter, easier loops around 'Ninesprings Café'. Explore more options in the MTB Trails around Long Load guide.
Yes, several sites are suitable for families. The village of Norton-sub-Hamdon offers a charming step back in time with its picturesque buildings and a 17th-century dovecote. St Vincent's Church, Ashington, with its unique architecture, can also be an interesting visit for all ages.
Ham Hill is a prominent landmark, home to the Ham Hill War Memorial and Stone Circle. This monument, made from the distinctive yellow Ham Hill stone, commemorates those who served in the First and Second World Wars, as well as the Northern Ireland Conflict. It serves as a powerful reminder of the need to maintain peace.
Yes, there are options available. Near the Ham Hill War Memorial, you'll find 'The Prince Of Wales' pub, which offers food, ice cream, ales, and ciders with outdoor seating overlooking the slopes. The village of Norton-sub-Hamdon also has an old pub where you can relax.
You can explore trails like Hollow Lane, which offers a steady climb through thick woodland between Hamdon and Butcher's Hill, providing an atmospheric experience. The wider Somerset countryside also offers numerous walking opportunities.
The local Ham Hill stone is quite unique to the area. It has a distinctive yellow hue and is used in many buildings, particularly in villages like Norton-sub-Hamdon, giving them a particularly pretty aesthetic. The Ham Hill War Memorial is also constructed from this local stone.
Visitors appreciate the historical significance and scenic beauty of the area. The panoramic views from St Michael's Tower are highly praised. The atmospheric climb through Hollow Lane is also a favorite, making you feel like you're entering another world. The historical context and unique architecture of sites like Ham Hill War Memorial also resonate deeply with visitors.


Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions: