Priddy Circles - Image 1
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Priddy Circles Somerset

3.8
·5 reviews·Priddy, United Kingdom

Explore ancient Neolithic henges and tumuli on the Mendip Hills, best experienced via a scenic, albeit sometimes muddy, circular walk.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring mornings

Flowers bloom, lanes are lush

CrowdLow
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Priddy Circles - Image 1

Priddy Circles Somerset

Best Time

Spring mornings

Flowers bloom, lanes are lush

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore ancient Neolithic henges and tumuli on the Mendip Hills, best experienced via a scenic, albeit sometimes muddy, circular walk.

3.8
(5 reviews)

"A great 6-mile circular walk with ancient wonders and a decent pub at the end."

Vertical photo
TIP

🐾 Dog Walking Advice

Keep dogs on leads due to sheep. Be prepared for very muddy lanes in winter; a portable shower is handy!

👟 Footwear is Key

Waterproof boots are essential, especially outside of dry summer months. Sunken lanes get extremely muddy.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Great Henges

The Great Henges

Priddy Green

Two colossal Neolithic henge monuments, offering a glimpse into ancient ritual and landscape.

Tumulus Arch

Tumulus Arch

Near Priddy Circles

An intriguing arrangement of nine burial mounds, adding to the prehistoric atmosphere of the area.

Circular Walk

Circular Walk

Surrounding Priddy village

A scenic 6-mile route through sunken lanes and fields, often ending at a welcoming local pub.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Mud (or Avoid It)

Priddy Circles are ancient henge monuments, but the surrounding paths can get incredibly muddy, especially in winter. Consider waterproof footwear and be prepared for a rinse-off for pets. Spring and summer offer lush hedgerows and shaded lanes.

Access & Views

While the Priddy Circles are impressive, they aren't always visible from the road, and dedicated parking can be scarce. Plan for a walk to fully appreciate these two gigantic henges and the tumulus arch nearby.

Best Times

When
Spring mornings
Why
Flowers bloom, lanes are lush
Crowd
Low
When
Summer afternoons
Why
Shaded lanes, pleasant walks
Crowd
Medium
When
Autumn evenings
Why
Golden light on ancient sites
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Meet the 19-year-old shaking up South African hip hop... 🎶 Priddy Prince #fyp #sa #sahiphop #sahiphopmusic #viraltiktok #MzansiHustler
@kasihustleplug
2.1K likes • 38.6K views

🐾 Dog Walking Advice

Keep dogs on leads due to sheep. Be prepared for very muddy lanes in winter; a portable shower is handy! Reddit

👟 Footwear is Key

Waterproof boots are essential, especially outside of dry summer months. Sunken lanes get extremely muddy. Reddit

#flvme #fy #priddy #hiphop #sahiphop
@sa.hiphop.fan
1K likes • 10.4K views
This week I painted a campervan for @karmaya__ while camping in Priddy Somerset @ebborwaysfarm The brief was based around utopia and dystopia, staying connected to nature as opposed to destroying it with urbanisation and growth… I enjoyed the creative bubble, painting in a field with no distractions, nice walks with Asha my dog, music and cider to keep me going. Freehand spraycan, challenging in ...
gage.graphics
132 likes • 0 views

🚗 Parking Challenges

Parking can be limited near the circles. Plan for a walk from Priddy village to access the sites. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Embrace the Walk

The best way to experience the Priddy Circles is via the 6-mile circular walk. Reddit

Priddy with Sid, Tom, Jesse and Charles
moss_plimmer
100 likes • 0 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🐾 Dog Walking Advice

Keep dogs on leads due to sheep. Be prepared for very muddy lanes in winter; a portable shower is handy! Reddit

👟 Footwear is Key

Waterproof boots are essential, especially outside of dry summer months. Sunken lanes get extremely muddy. Reddit

🚗 Parking Challenges

Parking can be limited near the circles. Plan for a walk from Priddy village to access the sites. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Embrace the Walk

The best way to experience the Priddy Circles is via the 6-mile circular walk. Reddit

What Travellers Say

3.8
(5 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Priddy Circles for their impressive ancient scale and the enjoyable 6-mile circular walk through picturesque, albeit often muddy, sunken lanes. The surrounding landscape of the Mendip Hills is a significant draw, with many appreciating the opportunity to connect with history and nature. Some note that parking can be difficult and the paths require sturdy footwear due to mud.

"This is a great 6 mile circular walk with a decent pub at the end. If taking dogs best to keep them on a lead as there are sheep in the fields. Much of the walk is on sunken lanes - old drove roads and get very muddy in winter and snow takes ages to melt. I keep a portable pressure shower in the car to give the dogs a rinse off as they get very muddy. Lovely in spring with all the flowers in the hedgerows. Love the summer months when the lanes become tunnels when the foliage is in full leaf. You won't regret taking a trot round Priddy."

Cee Cee

"Cannot see from the road, no where to park to look"

Robert Heaton

"Two superb gigantic henges 🤩
An arch of 9 tumulus on the other side of the road"

Armel Bonsergent

What People Like

Impressive ancient henges
Scenic circular walk
Beautiful Mendip landscape

What People Dislike

Very muddy paths
Limited parking

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Priddy Circles are located near the village of Priddy in Somerset. While there isn't always dedicated parking directly at the circles, many visitors park in Priddy village and enjoy the surrounding circular walk to reach the sites. Reddit

Parking directly at the Priddy Circles can be scarce and isn't always obvious from the road. It's often recommended to park in Priddy village and walk to the monuments. Reddit

Public transport options to Priddy are limited. It's best to check local bus routes, but driving or cycling is generally more convenient for reaching the area. Consider checking local transport apps for the most up-to-date information.

The most rewarding way to explore is by taking the 6-mile circular walk that often starts and ends in Priddy village, taking in the circles and surrounding countryside. Reddit

Besides the two main henges, you can also find an arch of nine tumuli nearby, adding to the rich prehistoric landscape of the area. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, the Priddy Circles are open-access ancient monuments and do not require tickets for entry. You can visit them freely.

As an outdoor historical site, the Priddy Circles are accessible at any time. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and visibility.

There is no entrance fee to visit the Priddy Circles. They are part of the open landscape.

While technically accessible, visiting at night is not recommended due to lack of lighting, potential for getting lost, and safety concerns. Daylight hours are best for exploration.

Official guided tours are not commonly advertised. However, local walking groups or historical societies may occasionally offer guided walks. It's best to check local event listings.

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can explore two large Neolithic henge monuments and an arch of nine tumuli, offering a fascinating glimpse into ancient history and landscape. Reddit

Allow at least 1-2 hours to explore the circles and surrounding tumuli, or longer if you plan to complete the full 6-mile circular walk. Reddit

Yes, children can enjoy exploring the open spaces and imagining life in ancient times. However, supervision is essential, especially on the walking routes. Reddit

There are no specific facilities like restrooms or visitor centers directly at the Priddy Circles. Facilities are typically found in Priddy village. Reddit

Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check with local authorities or heritage bodies regarding any restrictions on flying drones over historical sites.

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, the 6-mile circular walk often concludes at a decent pub in Priddy village, providing a great spot for refreshments after your exploration. Reddit

Picnicking is possible in the surrounding fields, but please be mindful of the environment and take all litter with you. There are no designated picnic areas.

Priddy village typically offers traditional pub fare at its local establishments, perfect for a hearty meal after a walk. Reddit

The main dining options are in Priddy village itself, which is usually the starting or ending point for walks that include the circles. Reddit

It's best to carry your own water and snacks for the walk, as there are no amenities directly on the route between the circles and the village. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the scale of the henges against the open sky, the textures of the ancient earthworks, and the surrounding rural landscape. The tumulus arch also offers unique photographic potential. Reddit

Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) provides beautiful light that enhances the contours of the earthworks. Overcast days can also offer diffused light, good for detail shots. Reddit

Generally, photography for personal use is permitted. However, commercial photography or filming may require permission. Always be respectful of the site.

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expanse of the henges. A tripod can be useful for low-light conditions or long exposures. Reddit

You can photograph the sheep, but always maintain a safe distance and do not disturb the animals. Remember to keep dogs on a lead. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Priddy Circles offer a fantastic opportunity for families to connect with history in an open, natural setting. Kids can enjoy the adventure of exploring ancient earthworks and imagining life in prehistoric times. The 6-mile circular walk is a great way to get them active, but be prepared for muddy sections, especially outside of summer. Reddit Waterproof footwear is a must for everyone! Consider bringing snacks and drinks as facilities are limited. The nearby pub is a good reward at the end of the walk. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Hikers and Walkers

The 6-mile circular walk around Priddy is a highlight for many visitors, offering varied terrain and scenic views. The sunken lanes are a unique feature, though they can be challenging when muddy. Reddit Sturdy hiking boots are highly recommended. The walk provides excellent opportunities to see the Priddy Circles, the tumulus arch, and the beautiful Mendip Hills landscape. Reddit Many walkers enjoy combining the hike with a stop at a local pub in Priddy for refreshments. Reddit

🐶 Dog Owners

Priddy Circles and its surrounding walks are generally dog-friendly, but with important considerations. Dogs must be kept on a lead at all times due to the presence of sheep in the fields. Reddit Be prepared for significant mud, especially in winter, and consider bringing a portable shower or towels to clean off your pet before getting back in the car. Reddit The open spaces allow dogs to enjoy the outdoors, but always prioritize their safety and the welfare of livestock.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Ancient History of Priddy Circles

The Priddy Circles are a collection of Neolithic henge monuments located on the Mendip Hills in Somerset. These impressive earthworks, dating back thousands of years, are believed to have served significant ceremonial or ritualistic purposes for ancient communities. The two main henges are particularly striking, featuring large circular banks and ditches that hint at complex social organization and belief systems. The surrounding landscape also contains numerous tumuli, or burial mounds, further underscoring the area's importance as a prehistoric ritual landscape. Reddit

Visiting Priddy Circles offers a tangible connection to Britain's deep past. The sheer scale of these monuments, even after millennia, can evoke a sense of awe and wonder. While their exact functions remain a subject of archaeological debate, their presence speaks volumes about the lives and practices of our ancestors. The site is part of a wider network of prehistoric sites on the Mendips, making it a key destination for anyone interested in ancient history and archaeology. Reddit

Navigating the Mendip Hills Landscape

The Priddy Circles are situated within the beautiful and rugged landscape of the Mendip Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). This region is characterized by rolling hills, limestone gorges, and ancient trackways, including the sunken lanes that are a prominent feature of the walk around Priddy. These lanes, often called 'drove roads,' were historically used for moving livestock and are now popular walking routes. Reddit

Be aware that the Mendip Hills can be exposed and weather can change rapidly. The sunken lanes, while picturesque, can become extremely muddy and waterlogged, especially during wetter months. This makes appropriate footwear a crucial consideration for visitors. The area is also home to sheep and other livestock, so keeping dogs under control is essential. The natural beauty of the Mendips, combined with its historical significance, makes it a rewarding area to explore. Reddit

The Priddy Folk Festival Experience

While the Priddy Circles are ancient monuments, the village of Priddy also hosts events like the Priddy Folk Festival. This festival, often held in the summer, transforms the village into a lively hub of music and community. Visitors might experience a 'wet and wild weekend' with camping, even in the pouring rain, adding to the quintessential British festival atmosphere. Instagram

The festival offers a different kind of experience to the historical exploration of the circles. It brings a contemporary vibrancy to the area, showcasing local talent and creating a festive environment. If you're planning a visit around festival times, be prepared for larger crowds and a more energetic atmosphere compared to a quiet exploration of the ancient sites. Instagram

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