Coaley Peak: Scenic Cotswold Summit with Neolithic Heritage
A limestone summit on the Cotswold escarpment offering panoramic views, ancient burial grounds, and peaceful nature reserve charm.
Coaley Peak is a limestone summit on the western edge of the Cotswold Hills near Dursley, England. Offering panoramic views across the Severn Vale to the Forest of Dean and beyond, it is a popular nature reserve and picnic spot featuring the ancient Nympsfield Long Barrow, a Neolithic burial chamber. The site combines natural beauty, historical significance, and accessible walking trails along the Cotswold Way.
A brief summary to Coaley Peak
- 21 Rock Road, Dursley, GB
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit on a clear day for the best panoramic views across the Severn Vale and distant Brecon Beacons.
- Explore the Nympsfield Long Barrow to connect with Neolithic history, but note it is a protected archaeological site.
- Bring a picnic and enjoy the open grassy areas, ideal for family outings and kite flying.
- Wear sturdy shoes for walking the Cotswold Way trail that passes through the reserve with some slopes.
- Keep dogs on a lead near the archaeological site to protect the sensitive environment.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Car
Driving from Stroud, Coaley Peak is approximately a 15-minute journey via the B4066. Free parking is available near the reserve entrance. Note that parking can fill quickly on busy days.
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Bus
Local bus services run from Stroud to Dursley, from where taxis or a 4-mile taxi ride can reach Coaley Peak. Bus frequency varies, so check schedules in advance.
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Walking
For walkers, the Cotswold Way passes through Coaley Peak, allowing access via scenic trails. Terrain includes gentle slopes and grassy paths suitable for moderate fitness levels.
Coaley Peak location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Coaley Peak
Elevated Natural Beauty on the Cotswold Edge
Coaley Peak rises to 233 meters (764 feet) above sea level, forming a striking limestone summit on the western escarpment of the Cotswold Hills. Its position offers sweeping, largely unobstructed views across the Severn Valley, including vistas of the Forest of Dean and, on clear days, the distant Brecon Beacons in South Wales. The terrain features a narrow strip of grassland stretching about a third of a mile and covering approximately 12 acres, characterized by unimproved limestone grassland and calcareous soils.Historical Significance of Nympsfield Long Barrow
Within the nature reserve lies the Nympsfield Long Barrow, a prehistoric Neolithic burial chamber dating back over 5,000 years. This ancient monument consists of a large earthen mound approximately 100 by 80 feet, enclosing a cross-shaped chamber formed by limestone blocks. Excavations have uncovered at least 20 human skeletons and pottery fragments, highlighting its importance as a ritual and burial site. Although the barrow’s roof was removed in the past, it is now protected and managed by English Heritage.Flora, Fauna, and Conservation Efforts
Once farmland, Coaley Peak is gradually being restored as a nature reserve managed by the Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust since 2016. The grassland supports a variety of wildflowers including sainfoin, yellow-rattle, orchids, red campion, and buttercups. Grazing sheep help maintain the habitat, promoting biodiversity. Nearby woodlands, including the ancient Coaley Wood managed by the Woodland Trust, add to the ecological richness of the area.Recreational Use and Visitor Experience
Coaley Peak is a favored destination for picnics, kite flying, birdwatching, and walking. The Cotswold Way long-distance footpath passes through the reserve, offering scenic hiking opportunities with varied terrain and rewarding views. The site’s open grassy areas and panoramic outlooks make it especially popular for family outings and dog walking. Facilities include a large free car park adjacent to the reserve.Community and Cultural Connections
The site’s history as an ancient meeting place and burial ground reflects its longstanding cultural significance. Local lore suggests it may have once served as a leper colony. Today, Coaley Peak serves as a tranquil natural retreat that connects visitors with both the landscape and the deep human history of the Cotswolds region.Accessibility and Surroundings
Located about 4 miles southwest of Stroud and near the village of Coaley, Coaley Peak is easily accessible by road with parking available. Its proximity to other attractions such as Woodchester Park and the Forest of Dean enhances its appeal as part of a broader exploration of Gloucestershire’s natural and historic sites.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Walk The Cotswolds
5.4 km
Explore the Cotswolds' breathtaking landscapes and charming villages with Walk The Cotswolds, your gateway to England's picturesque countryside adventures.
Haresfield Topograph
7.9 km
A three-dimensional map landmark on the Cotswold escarpment with panoramic views toward Wales.
Somerset Monument
13.8 km
A towering Victorian tribute to Lord Robert Edward Somerset, commanding panoramic views over the historic Cotswold landscape.
Eastgate viewing chamber
17.6 km
Discover Gloucester’s ancient Roman and medieval city defenses through a unique underground viewing chamber beneath Eastgate Street.
Visit Cotswolds Online
18.2 km
Explore the enchanting Cotswolds, where rolling hills, historic villages, and breathtaking landscapes await every traveler seeking an unforgettable adventure.
Gloucestershire Historic Churches Trust
18.2 km
Explore the rich ecclesiastical heritage of Gloucestershire through its historic churches, showcasing stunning architecture and engaging community initiatives.
King's Board
18.4 km
Discover the historical allure of King's Board, a charming landmark in Gloucester that showcases rich heritage and stunning architecture.
Over Bridge
18.5 km
Historic stone arch bridge by Thomas Telford, offering scenic river views and a glimpse into 19th-century engineering near Gloucester.
Malmesbury Abbey
19.6 km
Discover the rich history and stunning architecture of Malmesbury Abbey, a must-visit landmark showcasing England's medieval heritage and tranquility.
Barber wood
21.4 km
Experience the tranquility of Barber Wood, a nature reserve near Cheltenham, perfect for families and nature lovers seeking a peaceful outdoor escape.
Hopewell Colliery
21.7 km
Explore the historical depths of Hopewell Colliery in the Forest of Dean, where mining heritage meets scenic beauty and family fun.
Cirencester Park
21.9 km
Discover Cirencester Park: A historical gem in the Cotswolds offering expansive gardens, serene woodlands, and breathtaking views for every nature lover.
May Hill
22.3 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of May Hill, a mountain peak in Longhope offering stunning views, hiking trails, and a serene escape into nature.
Jet Age Museum
22.4 km
Discover the rich history of British aviation at the Jet Age Museum, where technology meets nostalgia in a captivating experience.
The Bee Shelter, Hartpury
22.5 km
Discover Hartpury’s unique 19th-century Bee Shelter, a stunning stone monument celebrating Gloucestershire’s rich beekeeping heritage and Victorian craftsmanship.
Unmissable attractions to see
Nympsfield Long Barrow
0.1 km
Explore the ancient Neolithic burial chambers of Nympsfield Long Barrow, set amid stunning Gloucestershire countryside and steeped in mysterious legends.
Uley Long Barrow (Hetty Pegler's Tump)
1.3 km
Explore a 5,000-year-old Neolithic burial mound with ancient chambers and stunning Severn Valley views at Uley Long Barrow, Gloucestershire.
Woodchester Mansion Trust
1.5 km
A hauntingly beautiful, unfinished Victorian Gothic mansion hidden in a tranquil Cotswold valley, offering a rare glimpse into architectural ambition and a haven for rare bats.
National Trust - Woodchester Park
2.2 km
Secluded Cotswolds valley with lakes, wildlife, historic boathouse, family trails, and scenic café views in a National Trust haven.
Cam Peak
3.4 km
Discover Cam Peak’s breathtaking views, wildflower meadows, and ancient hillfort on a scenic Cotswold Way walk near Dursley.
Selsley Common
3.9 km
Explore Selsley Common’s ancient limestone grassland with rare orchids, historic barrows, and sweeping views over the Severn Valley in the Cotswolds.
Visit The Cotswolds
6.3 km
Your essential gateway to exploring the scenic beauty, heritage, and charm of England’s Cotswolds National Landscape.
Sim's Clock
6.8 km
Explore the historical Sim's Clock in Stroud, a charming landmark that reflects the town's rich heritage and vibrant community spirit.
Museum in the Park
6.8 km
Explore Stroud’s heritage and art in a historic wool merchant’s house, with engaging exhibits and a serene Walled Garden in Stratford Park.
Made In Stroud
6.9 km
Discover authentic handmade gifts and local artisan treasures in the heart of Stroud’s creative community.
The Malthouse Collective
7.2 km
Discover timeless antiques and artisan crafts in Stroud’s vibrant Malthouse Collective, where history and creativity unite.
William Tyndale Monument
7.6 km
Explore the William Tyndale Monument, a historic tribute to the English Reformation, offering stunning views and a serene hiking experience.
Haresfield Beacon & Standish Wood - National Trust
8.1 km
Discover sweeping Cotswold views and ancient woodlands atop the dramatic Haresfield Beacon escarpment near Stonehouse.
Ozleworth Park
8.1 km
Discover the serene beauty and historic charm of Ozleworth Park, a tranquil Cotswold escape with lush gardens and a unique circular graveyard.
National Trust - Newark Park
8.2 km
A Tudor hunting lodge turned Georgian country house, perched on the Cotswold edge with sweeping views, historic interiors, and 700 acres of parkland and gardens.
Essential places to dine
Wilder
5.8 km
Discover an intimate fine dining adventure in Nailsworth with inventive tasting menus and expertly paired wines at Wilder.
The Long Table
7.3 km
A pay-as-you-can community restaurant in Stroud serving locally sourced meals that nourish both body and spirit.
Fagin's
11.7 km
A charming family-friendly English pub in Brookthorpe serving hearty steaks, classic carveries, and warm hospitality in a relaxed setting.
Miller & Carter Gloucester
13.1 km
Experience expertly cooked steaks and warm hospitality at Miller & Carter Gloucester in the heart of Quedgeley’s Olympus Park.
The Bell at Sapperton
15.5 km
Historic Cotswold inn blending seasonal British fare, a renowned wine wall, and cozy accommodations in the heart of picturesque Sapperton village.
Eat Unique
16.6 km
A peaceful village restaurant in Churcham, Gloucester, offering distinctive dishes in a cozy, rural setting.
Côte Gloucester
17.2 km
Modern French brasserie offering refined cuisine and warm service in Gloucester Quays, now closed but fondly remembered.
Bill's Gloucester Quays Restaurant
17.2 km
A relaxed, modern British restaurant at Gloucester Quays, perfect for a post-shopping meal or casual catch-up with friends and family.
The Tall Ship
17.3 km
Historic Grade II listed pub in Gloucester Docks offering excellent British food, great beer, live music, and a lively social atmosphere.
The Barge
17.3 km
A cozy family-run spot in Gloucester Docks serving hearty English classics with a welcoming bring-your-own-drinks policy.
Grey's Brasserie
17.4 km
Sophisticated yet relaxed dining at Whatley Manor, featuring globally inspired small plates and traditional Sunday roasts in a stunning Cotswolds setting.
Settebello Trattoria
17.4 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors with panoramic dockside views at Gloucester’s beloved Settebello Trattoria.
Greek on the Docks
17.4 km
Experience authentic Greek cuisine and vibrant Mediterranean flavors with stunning waterfront views in the heart of Gloucester Docks.
Aroma
17.4 km
Authentic Indian and Bangladeshi flavors served with impeccable hospitality in the heart of Gloucester’s historic Southgate Street.
Topoly's
17.5 km
Authentic family-run Italian dining in the heart of Gloucester, serving fresh homemade dishes since 1990 in a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Little Gift Shop
5.8 km
Curated gifts and local treasures in the heart of Nailsworth's independent retail scene.
Duffle Vintage
6.9 km
Authentic 60s and 70s vintage fashion in intimate, inspiring room settings.
Butterfly Ball
6.9 km
Discover mindful gifts and spiritual treasures in Stroud’s welcoming Butterfly Ball shop, a hub for creativity and community since 2011.
Moonflower Too
6.9 km
A vibrant gift shop in Stroud’s historic High Street, blending unique homewares with local charm and ethical brands.
Adana Collective Antiques
7.2 km
Discover timeless treasures and beautiful antiques at Adana Collective, a curated gem in Stroud’s vibrant Salmon Springs Trading Estate.
Handmade Cotswolds
10.4 km
Discover exquisite handmade crafts and unique artisan gifts in the heart of Stroud’s vibrant Cotswolds community.
Domestic Science
12.3 km
Discover curated vintage treasures and contemporary homewares in a charming Georgian townhouse at the heart of Tetbury.
Highgrove Shop - Tetbury
12.5 km
Exclusive royal estate boutique offering sustainable crafts, fine china, and artisan gifts inspired by King Charles III’s Highgrove Gardens.
Cotswold Creates
16.7 km
Discover unique artisan gifts and handcrafted treasures that capture the heart of the Cotswolds in Gloucester’s welcoming Cotswold Creates.
Gloucester Quays
17.0 km
Discover designer bargains and festive charm at Gloucester Quays, a lively waterfront outlet set within historic docks.
Gift Company
17.0 km
Discover unique gifts and charming homeware at The Gift Company, nestled in the vibrant Gloucester Quays outlet by the historic docks.
Upstairs Downstairs
17.5 km
Discover Gloucester’s charming antique shop with unique collectibles and a cozy tearoom serving homemade treats.
King's Walk
17.6 km
Gloucester’s central shopping destination featuring popular high street brands and convenient dining in a lively city centre setting.
Pilgrims Gloucester
17.8 km
Discover unique gifts and a cosy, atmospheric shopping experience in the heart of historic Gloucester.
L&S Lifestyle
17.8 km
Discover unique gifts and stylish finds in a cozy boutique setting at L&S Lifestyle, Gloucester’s charming gift shop on College Street.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Weighbridge Inn
7.0 km
Historic 17th-century Cotswolds pub famed for its unique 2in1 pies, local ales, and warm, rustic charm.
Cotswold Mobile Bar Hire
10.0 km
Bringing bespoke, fully stocked mobile bars with rustic charm and quirky inflatable pubs to your Cotswold events.
The Bumble Bee
11.9 km
A charming gastropub in Gloucester blending traditional warmth with quality seasonal dining and real ales in a relaxed setting.
Barn Owl
12.6 km
A friendly, family- and dog-welcoming pub in Quedgeley offering classic British fare, cask ales, and a warm, spacious setting with outdoor gardens.
Three Oaks Inn
15.6 km
A welcoming gastropub in Gloucester’s Robinswood, blending traditional charm with modern comfort and community spirit.
Avenue
15.9 km
A lively, dog-friendly pub in Gloucester serving classic fare and drinks in a welcoming Victorian setting with a vibrant community spirit.
Brewhouse & Kitchen - Gloucester Quays
17.1 km
A vibrant gastropub and microbrewery at Gloucester Quays offering craft beers, hearty meals, and waterfront views in a lively, modern setting.
TANK
17.2 km
Discover Gloucester’s premier craft beer bar with a lively atmosphere, local brews, stonebaked pizzas, and a welcoming beer garden in the historic docks.
One Eyed Jacks
17.3 km
A vibrant traditional pub in Gloucester blending classic charm with lively entertainment and friendly atmosphere.
Devoted Deluxe - Mobile Bar Hire
17.4 km
Elegant mobile bar hire in Gloucester delivering bespoke cocktails and personalized service for every special occasion.
Our House Bar
17.5 km
A vibrant cocktail and wine bar in Gloucester Docks offering curated drinks and a welcoming atmosphere for memorable nights out.
Café René
17.6 km
A lively Gloucester pub and restaurant blending historic charm, award-winning food, and vibrant live music in the city centre.
The Drunken Duck
17.7 km
A vibrant Gloucester pub blending unique space, exceptional beers, and a welcoming atmosphere for all to enjoy.
The Sword Inn Gloucester
17.8 km
Historic Gloucester pub blending tradition, community spirit, and lively sports in a welcoming city centre setting.
The Fountain Inn
17.8 km
Charming Grade II listed pub in Gloucester’s city centre offering real ales, hearty British fare, and a cozy historic atmosphere with garden and function rooms.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Natural
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Nature Reserve
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly