Priddy Circles Somerset
Explore ancient Neolithic henges and tumuli on the Mendip Hills, best experienced via a scenic, albeit sometimes muddy, circular walk.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Flowers bloom, lanes are lush
Priddy Circles Somerset
Best Time
Flowers bloom, lanes are lush
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore ancient Neolithic henges and tumuli on the Mendip Hills, best experienced via a scenic, albeit sometimes muddy, circular walk.
"A great 6-mile circular walk with ancient wonders and a decent pub at the end."
🐾 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.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Great Henges
Priddy Green
Two colossal Neolithic henge monuments, offering a glimpse into ancient ritual and landscape.
Tumulus Arch
Near Priddy Circles
An intriguing arrangement of nine burial mounds, adding to the prehistoric atmosphere of the area.
Circular Walk
Surrounding Priddy village
A scenic 6-mile route through sunken lanes and fields, often ending at a welcoming local pub.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Mud (or Avoid It)
Access & Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🐾 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.
🚗 Parking Challenges
Parking can be limited near the circles. Plan for a walk from Priddy village to access the sites.
🚶♀️ Embrace the Walk
The best way to experience the Priddy Circles is via the 6-mile circular walk.
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!
👟 Footwear is Key
Waterproof boots are essential, especially outside of dry summer months. Sunken lanes get extremely muddy.
🚗 Parking Challenges
Parking can be limited near the circles. Plan for a walk from Priddy village to access the sites.
🚶♀️ Embrace the Walk
The best way to experience the Priddy Circles is via the 6-mile circular walk.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
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.
Besides the two main henges, you can also find an arch of nine tumuli nearby, adding to the rich prehistoric landscape of the area.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
Yes, children can enjoy exploring the open spaces and imagining life in ancient times. However, supervision is essential, especially on the walking routes.
There are no specific facilities like restrooms or visitor centers directly at the Priddy Circles. Facilities are typically found in Priddy village.
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.
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.
The main dining options are in Priddy village itself, which is usually the starting or ending point for walks that include the circles.
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.
📸 📸 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.
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.
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.
You can photograph the sheep, but always maintain a safe distance and do not disturb the animals. Remember to keep dogs on a lead.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Hikers and Walkers
🐶 Dog Owners
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Ancient History of Priddy Circles
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.
Navigating the Mendip Hills Landscape
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.
The Priddy Folk Festival Experience
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.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit