The 4 Most Amazing Peaks around High Ham

High Ham is characterized by gentle rolling hills and the flat wetlands of the Somerset Levels and Moors. While not traditional towering mountains, the area offers prominent landmarks and historical sites that provide engaging walks and expansive views. You'll find hills like Glastonbury Tor and Burrow Mump that stand out from the surrounding flat landscape.

Yes, several hills in the vicinity hold historical importance. Glastonbury Tor is iconic, crowned by the roofless St Michael's Tower and steeped in mythology. Burrow Mump features a Grade I listed ruined church on its summit and was once the site of a Norman motte and bailey castle. Further afield, Ham Hill is known for its extensive Iron Age hillfort, the largest in Britain, offering archaeological interest.

Visitors frequently enjoy the panoramic views from Glastonbury Tor, which offers vistas across the Somerset Levels, Dorset, Wiltshire, and even Wales. Burrow Mump also provides excellent views from its elevated position. For 360-degree views over the Somerset Levels, Lollover Hill Trig Point is a popular spot.

The hills and trails around High Ham generally offer accessible walking experiences. While specific 'family-friendly' categories aren't always assigned, the gentle rolling terrain of the Somerset Levels and the paths around hills like Lollover Hill Trig Point are suitable for shorter walks. Ham Hill Country Park, though further out, is also ideal for family walks with its open spaces.

The elevated trails around High Ham offer diverse natural features. You'll encounter calcareous grassland, scrub, ancient oak woodland, and conifer plantations, particularly around areas like Dundon Beacon Nature Reserve. Walton Hill, a Site of Special Scientific Interest, is a thriving habitat for butterflies and various plants and wildlife.

Beyond exploring the peaks themselves, the region offers various outdoor activities. You can find easy hikes like the 'Muchelney Abbey Ruins loop' or the 'Duck Pond – Stembridge Tower Mill loop'. For cycling, there are routes like the 'Somerset Levels – Mulcheney Pottery loop'. Mountain biking enthusiasts can explore trails such as the 'Ham Wall Nature Reserve – Willow Walk loop'. You can find more details on these activities in our guides for easy hikes, MTB trails, and cycling around High Ham.

Yes, there are several hiking trails. For instance, a nice trail leads up to and around Lollover Hill Trig Point, which can be combined with a visit to the nearby Wildlife Trust managed Dundon Hill. The River Parrett Trail also passes by Burrow Mump, offering scenic walks. For more options, explore our guide on easy hikes around High Ham.

Visitors particularly enjoy the expansive views from the summits, especially at sunrise or sunset, as noted for Glastonbury Tor. The historical significance and unique landmarks like the ruined church on Burrow Mump are also highly appreciated. The opportunity for engaging walks through varied terrain, from wetlands to gentle hills, is a major draw.

Most of the elevated walks around High Ham, including those to Glastonbury Tor, Burrow Mump, and Lollover Hill Trig Point, are generally considered intermediate. While not overly strenuous, they often involve some uphill sections and can be windy at the top, so comfortable footwear is recommended. Many easy hikes are also available in the surrounding flatlands.

While the main highlights are well-known, exploring areas like Dundon Beacon Nature Reserve offers a chance to discover less-trodden paths with archaeological remains and diverse habitats. Walton Hill, owned by the National Trust, is another spot that, while offering excellent views, might feel like a quieter escape compared to the more iconic landmarks.

While this guide doesn't list specific pubs directly adjacent to every trail, the villages and towns surrounding High Ham and the mentioned hills often have local establishments. For example, Langport, a town near many of the local routes, offers options like 'Kitchen at the Wharf' and other local pubs where you can find refreshments after your walk.

During winter, the Somerset Levels can experience flooding, which can transform hills like Burrow Mump into islands, similar to Glastonbury Tor. While the hills themselves remain accessible, paths can be muddy and exposed areas at summits can be very windy. Always check local weather conditions and wear appropriate waterproof and warm clothing.