Attractions and Places To See around Ston Easton - Top 20

The area around Ston Easton is rich in history. You can visit the ancient Stanton Drew Stone Circles and Cove, which is the third-largest complex of standing stones in England. The village itself features the 11th-century Church of St Mary The Virgin, known for its Norman chancel arch. Additionally, the magnificent Wells Cathedral, an intricate example of Gothic architecture, is a short drive away. For a unique historical experience, consider visiting HM Prison Shepton Mallet, a decommissioned prison now operating as a tourist attraction.

Absolutely. Ston Easton is situated on the edge of the Mendip Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, offering rolling countryside and limestone hills. You can also visit Chew Valley Lake, the 5th largest artificial lake in the UK, which provides beautiful views and a 14k loop for walking or cycling. The grounds of Ston Easton Park, laid out by Humphry Repton, also feature pleasant gardens and a stream flowing through a steep-sided valley.

The region is excellent for outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking and cycling routes, including the 'Old Railway Line loop from Ston Easton' and the 'Midsomer Norton Railway Track loop from Chilcompton,' both easy trails. For more options, explore the easy hikes around Ston Easton or the MTB trails around Ston Easton. The Colliers Way is a dedicated cycling and walking path utilizing disused railway lines.

Yes, several attractions cater to families. Chew Valley Lake is great for a leisurely stroll or cycle. The Pensford Viaduct offers a striking sight and a footpath along the River Chew. Wookey Hole Caves, located about 6.9 miles from Ston Easton, is a popular indoor and outdoor attraction suitable for all ages. Many of the easy walking trails, such as the 'Old Railway Line loop from Ston Easton', are also suitable for families.

The Mendip Hills offer beautiful walking opportunities throughout the year. Spring and autumn provide pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, with fewer crowds than peak summer. However, public footpaths and trails are accessible year-round. Be aware that some paths, especially along the River Chew near Pensford Viaduct, can get muddy after rain, so appropriate footwear is recommended.

Ston Easton Park is an 18th-century Palladian English country house, listed as a Grade I building. Its Grade II listed grounds, designed by Humphry Repton, feature terraces, a pleasure ground, and an ornamental stone bridge. The estate has a history spanning 1000 years, appearing in the Domesday survey. While it previously operated as a luxury hotel, it is now a private residence used for events. You can learn more about its history on Wikipedia.

For a less crowded historical experience, consider Stanton Drew Stone Circles and Cove. While significant, it is not as frequently visited as more famous sites like Stonehenge, allowing for a more tranquil exploration. St Lawrence's Church in Priddy, with its picturesque setting, stained glass, and unusual 15th-century stone pulpit, also offers a peaceful cultural visit.

Several easy walking routes are available. The 'Old Railway Line loop from Ston Easton' is a gentle 2.9-mile trail following a former railway path. Another easy option is the 'Midsomer Norton Railway Track loop from Chilcompton.' You can find more easy hikes, including a 'Hiking loop from Chilcompton' and 'The Holy Cow – Crossways Tavern loop from Chilcompton', by exploring the easy hikes around Ston Easton guide.

The Pensford Viaduct is a striking Grade II-listed former railway bridge built in 1874, spanning the River Chew. You can walk along a footpath directly underneath the 95-foot high bridge, offering a unique perspective of its structure. The area also features beautiful landscapes and walking routes along the River Chew, with some visitors enjoying wild swimming spots nearby.

Yes, there are several running trails in the vicinity. Options include the 'Radstock Pit Wheel – Bike It Radstock loop from Midsomer Norton' and the 'Town Park Viewing Plateau – Crossways Tavern loop from Midsomer Norton'. For a comprehensive list of routes, you can refer to the running trails around Ston Easton guide.

Chew Valley Lake is the 5th largest artificial lake in the UK, constructed in the 1950s to supply drinking water. It offers brilliant views of the lake and surrounding countryside, especially from the dam. There's a pleasant 14k loop around the lake, popular for cycling and walking. It's a great spot for nature observation and enjoying tranquil waterside scenery.

Beyond the village's own Church of St Mary The Virgin, you can visit Wells Cathedral, a stunning example of Gothic architecture built from honey-coloured stone. Another notable religious site is St Lawrence's Church in Priddy, a Grade I-listed church nestled in picturesque countryside, featuring wonderful stained glass windows and a Norman font.