Brent Knoll - Highbridge

Nicholas C.

I have passed Brent Knoll hundreds of times either on the M5 (to the east) or on the mainline to Bristol (to the west). I've often said to myself I'd like to climb that one day.

What makes it so prominent is that it sits foursquare in the Somerset Levels. So, from the top one can see why an Iron Age hillfort was constructed here. We have the Polden Hills and Isle of Avalon to the east, the Parrett estuary to the south, the Bristol Channel to the west, and Brean Down and the Mendips to the north.

I climbed up using the footpath from East Brent a day after heavy rain, so a very muddy path in places, and it's not just ordinary mud but clay: very sticky.

I'm glad I did it though. A tick off my bucket list.

Matthew Y. (. T.

I was really lucky to have had a clear sunny day because the views were amazing. You could see for miles and miles in every direction. I can really appreciate a good view. The walk up only took several minutes and was not very hard. Well worth a visit if you are in the area. There is plenty of free parking on the side of the road near by. Good for people on there own, couples and families with children.

P E.

Great walk and amazing views from the peak. Park for free next to the church in the quaint village. Locals are very helpful when looking for the start of the route. Owned by the National Trust so pathways are kept to a good standard. Nestled in the farmland with sheep and cattle grazing nearby.

Stu L.

If you're passing along the A38 (in either direction), it's well worth diverting in to Brent Knoll village to see the hill fort for yourself. The hill fort is a steady climb from the churchyard, but not arduous. When you get to the top, there are amazing 360 degree views ... which is obviously why it was a hill fort.

Apparently. it was an occupied site from about 2,000 BC. Romans, Britons, Saxons, and Danes have all laid claim over the ages. There are no visible structures up there to see now, just the grass-mounded remains of foundations. However, you won't be disappointed, as the views are worth the time and climb.

On a good day, you can see Glastonbury Tor, and some of the other hill sites in the surrounding areas.

Our ancient hillforts and castles are dotted across Somerset. Stop in and see one. Get some fresh air and a bit of exercise and take in the magnificent views.

Brent Knoll Hill Fort is completely free to visit and is presided over by the National Trust. Of course, you can even bring your dog up there.

K Q.

Very interesting Hill Fort. Driven past here many times and often wondered if the hill were at least partially man-made. I walked up from East Brent village, where I was staying. It was quite muddy in places, so you may need wellington boots. It was a clear day and I could see Glastonbury Tor to the East and The Bristol Channel to the West. Highly recommended if you're in the area.

Stuart B.

Iron age Fort with fabulous views. Several ways to the top , steep at times. Plenty of free parking at the bottom . Can get very busy.

City G.

Parked just past the church for this short walk. Path is clearly marked, steep and slippy in places but the 360 degree views at the top are well worth it.

simon H.

Well worth the effort.

There is a small car park and it’s probably about a 20 minute walk to the top.

Fantastic views.

I would image in winter or after heavy rain it could be a bit slippery walking up.

Some of the steps at the top have been washed away.

We went with the expectation of having a picnic, but it was far too windy, even though there was little wind at the bottom.