Alfred's Tower
A historic triangular tower offering stunning panoramic views after a challenging climb, surrounded by beautiful woodland trails.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Best views from the top
Alfred's Tower
Best Time
Best views from the top
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic triangular tower offering stunning panoramic views after a challenging climb, surrounded by beautiful woodland trails.
"The views from up there are incredible especially on a sunny day!"
👟 Wear sturdy shoes
Essential for the climb and forest walks. Avoid sandals or heels.
💧 Bring water
Especially for longer forest walks. A coffee van might be present, but not guaranteed.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Views from the Top
Summit of Alfred's Tower
Ascend 200+ steps for breathtaking 360-degree views of the surrounding countryside. A truly rewarding sight on a clear day.
Historic Triangular Architecture
Alfred's Tower exterior
Admire the unique 18th-century triangular design of this impressive folly, built with over a million red bricks.
King Alfred's Legend
Base of Alfred's Tower
Learn about King Alfred the Great assembling his troops here in 878 AD, a significant historical event.
Woodland Trail Exploration
Surrounding forest
Wander through beautiful pine forests and woodlands on well-maintained trails, discovering hidden spots.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Climbing the Tower: Fitness & Fear
Beyond the Tower: Forest Walks
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear sturdy shoes
Essential for the climb and forest walks. Avoid sandals or heels.
💧 Bring water
Especially for longer forest walks. A coffee van might be present, but not guaranteed.
⬆️ Prepare for the climb
200+ narrow steps, no handrail. Good fitness recommended.
📸 Capture the views
The summit offers incredible photo opportunities.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear sturdy shoes
Essential for the climb and forest walks. Avoid sandals or heels.
💧 Bring water
Especially for longer forest walks. A coffee van might be present, but not guaranteed.
⬆️ Prepare for the climb
200+ narrow steps, no handrail. Good fitness recommended.
📸 Capture the views
The summit offers incredible photo opportunities.
🌳 Explore the trails
Don't miss the beautiful surrounding woodland walks.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the breathtaking views from the top of Alfred's Tower, calling it a rewarding experience after a challenging climb. The surrounding forest walks are also highly praised for their beauty and tranquility. However, the strenuous, narrow spiral staircase with no handrail is a significant drawback for those with mobility issues or a fear of heights.
"Wonderful views, once you reach the top, definatly not suitable for mobility problems as long/tall spiral stair case.
I have a big fear of heights and felt fine going up and once at the top but I found going down made me feel a little uneasy so be aware of this."
Sandy Allen
"Alfred Tower is a marvellous structure built around 400 years ago that stands prominent at the highest point of the area. I’ve been coming here since I was a child but recently the National Trust has taken operations and you can now pay a small fee of £6.50 to climb 208 stairs to the top of the tower. The view from up there is incredible especially on a sunny day and it’s interesting to see the architecture of such an old structure that was built as part of the Stourhead estate.
For me, the best part of Alfred Tower is actually the walks around the forest as there’s many paths in multiple directions that are absolutely stunning. I need you through Pineforest and thick Woods and sometimes you may find a field with sheep in it.
It certainly a place that you would want to allow for many hours so that you can take a walk in the woods.
The National Trust have put some information about the history of the tower which gives it more relevance and is quite interesting.
If you wanted to combine this with some other historical sites to see you then you could also go to Nanny castle and Glastonbury to which are within 20 minutes of Alfred Tower."
Paris Norriss
"There are 205 steps to climb and it's 160 feet tall
The views are breathtaking,
You need to be relatively fit to go up there.
The stairs are narrow and good fun when you meet people in the other direction,
No ropes to hold on to,
If you trip going down I feel you will have a bumpy trip to the bottom 😁"
Rod James
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Alfred's Tower is located on the border of Somerset and Wiltshire, near Stourhead. The access road (Tower Lane) can be unsurfaced further up, so drive slowly. There's a small car park near the tower.
Yes, there is a small car park available near the tower.
Public transport options are limited. It's best accessed by car. Consider combining with a visit to nearby Nanny Castle or Glastonbury if you have transport.
The tower is part of the Stourhead estate, and the nearest significant towns would be in Wiltshire or Somerset, though it's quite rural.
Follow signs for the Stourhead estate and then look for signs directing you to Alfred's Tower. The approach road can be a bit rough.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is a small fee to climb the tower, typically around £6.50, managed by the National Trust.
The tower is often only open at weekends. It's advisable to check the National Trust website for the most current opening times before your visit.
While there isn't a strict age restriction, the climb is physically demanding and not suitable for very young children or those with mobility issues.
The forest trails around the tower are generally accessible, but climbing the tower itself requires a ticket.
Tickets are usually purchased on-site at the tower itself.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
There are approximately 205 to 290 steps, depending on the source, arranged in a narrow spiral.
The views from the top are described as breathtaking and incredible, offering panoramic vistas of the surrounding countryside on a clear day.
The narrow, spiral staircase with no handrail can be unnerving. While some with a fear of heights felt fine, others found going down particularly unsettling.
There are typically no toilets directly at the tower. You may find facilities at nearby Stourhead.
The tower commemorates King Alfred the Great's victory over the Danes in 878 AD and also marks the accession of King George III. It's a folly built in the 18th century.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit offers stunning panoramic shots. The exterior of the triangular tower against the sky or surrounded by forest is also very photogenic.
The interior is gloomy with limited light, but there are frequent windows that offer some illumination and interesting perspectives.
A wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the tower's scale and the expansive views. A camera with good low-light performance is beneficial for interior shots.
Drone usage is typically restricted in National Trust properties for safety and conservation reasons. Check specific regulations before flying.
Yes, the woodland trails offer beautiful natural scenery, dappled light through trees, and potential wildlife sightings.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
However, the surrounding forest trails offer a fantastic alternative for families. These woodland walks are beautiful and provide plenty of space for children to explore safely. Pack snacks and water, and make a day of enjoying the natural surroundings.
🚶 Hikers and Nature Lovers
The opportunity to combine a historical landmark with a significant natural exploration makes it a compelling destination. The forest walks are a highlight for many, providing a peaceful escape and beautiful scenery.
📸 Photographers
Inside the tower, the frequent windows create interesting light patterns and provide unique perspectives. The surrounding woodlands also offer opportunities for nature photography, with dappled light and forest textures.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Legend of Alfred's Tower
+2The tower itself is a striking example of an 18th-century folly, designed by Henry Flitcroft. Constructed between 1762 and 1779, it's built from over a million red bricks, giving it a distinctive appearance. Its triangular shape and imposing height make it a prominent landmark in the landscape.
+1Visitors can learn more about these historical connections through information provided by the National Trust, enhancing their understanding and appreciation of the site.
Climbing the Tower: A Physical Challenge
This demanding climb means the tower is not suitable for individuals with mobility issues, young children who might struggle with the stairs, or those with a severe fear of heights. While the views from the top are spectacular, the journey to get there is part of the experience and should be approached with preparation.
For those who can manage the climb, it's a rewarding workout with a fantastic payoff. The unique nature of the staircase, with its frequent windows offering glimpses of the outside, makes the ascent an interesting, albeit strenuous, experience.
Exploring the Surrounding Woodlands
These trails are perfect for those who want to extend their visit and immerse themselves in the natural landscape. The varied terrain, including some steep hills, adds to the adventure. Keep an eye out for local wildlife and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere away from the immediate vicinity of the tower.
Allowing several hours for a visit is recommended to fully appreciate both the tower and the extensive walking routes. The forest walks provide a serene contrast to the climb and offer a different perspective on the beauty of the area.
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