The best road cycling routes around Charlton Horethorne

Rising dramatically out of the Somerset levels, Glastonbury Tor is one of England’s most mystical and iconic landmarks. It is a place where breathtaking natural beauty completely intertwines with centuries of rich folklore, ancient legends, and spiritual history. The Stroll Up: The walk to the summit takes you up a terraced grassy hill. While the climb is a little steep, it rewards every step with sweeping, panoramic views across the rolling countryside, the Mendip Hills, and on clear days, all the way to Wales. The St. Michael’s Tower: At the very top stands the roofless 14th-century St. Michael’s Tower. It is all that remains of a medieval church that once crowned the hill, adding a wonderfully atmospheric, historic touch to the skyline. Myth and Mystery: Steeped in Arthurian legend—often linked with the Isle of Avalon—and ancient pagan lore, the Tor has an undeniable sense of magic. It is a fantastic spot to catch a sunrise, feel the breeze, and just soak in a timeless, peaceful slice of English heritage.

If you think your homeowner’s association is strict, try the Almshouse of St. John the Baptist. Established in 1437, it was basically a 15th-century "assisted living" facility for the "brave and the broke." ​The rules? Absolutely medieval. You had to be "of good character," which in 1437 mostly meant "doesn’t throw mud at the Abbot." The jewel inside is the Sherborne Missal, a book so fancy it makes your iPad look like a rock. Today, it stands as a gorgeous Hamstone time capsule where history is thick, the chapel is tiny, and the vibes are strictly "pious chic."

Originally a Saxon cathedral, Sherborne Abbey is a golden-stoned masterpiece of Perpendicular Gothic architecture. Its claim to fame is the fan vaulting—arguably the earliest and most spectacular in England—which spreads across the ceiling like delicate stone lace. ​The Abbey has survived fires (started by a bickering abbot and townspeople in 1437), the Dissolution of the Monasteries, and the test of time. Inside, you’ll find the tombs of West Saxon kings and the stunning Great West Window. It remains a living "lantern" of Dorset, glowing with honey-colored Hamstone and a quiet, ancient majesty that defines the town.

I always make time to pop in on my walks in this area as it is wonderfully calming and peaceful. I like to just sit and marvel at the talent of the architecture.

Great to get off of the main roads but watch out for pot holes and rough road surfaces. This road certainly needs resurfacing/fixing in places.

A fantastic climb featuring a sharp hairpin bend near the top that adds a rewarding challenge. Spotting the house ahead signals you're almost at the summit, so shift into a low gear and enjoy the ascent! The descent is equally thrilling, with smooth roads and exhilarating twists making it a cyclist's dream.

Nice place to stop for some refreshments

Late c14th, Grade I. Door + tower from Norman period. Significant c14th effigies & remains of c14th tiled floor. Tudor carved chancel choir pew ends Cardinal Thomas Wolsey was rector between 1500 and 1509. He was placed in the stocks by the Sheriff of Somerset for 'drunken and lewd behaviour' at the Merriott fare.