Coaley Peak: A Scenic Cotswold Hilltop with Ancient Heritage and Panoramic Views
Coaley Peak offers sweeping Cotswold views, ancient Neolithic heritage, and vibrant wildflower meadows on a tranquil hilltop reserve.
Coaley Peak, located near Dursley in Gloucestershire, England, is a beloved scenic viewpoint and nature reserve offering expansive views over the Severn Vale towards the Forest of Dean. This 12-acre site, once arable farmland, features unimproved limestone grassland, wildflowers, and the historic Neolithic Nympsfield Long Barrow. Managed by the Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust, it is a popular picnic spot and walking destination 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
- Bring a picnic to enjoy in the expansive grassy areas with panoramic views over the Severn Vale.
- Wear sturdy shoes if you plan to explore the walking trails connecting to the Cotswold Way and nearby Woodchester Park.
- Keep an eye on children and dogs, as the open space is popular for dog walking and has some uneven terrain.
- Visit the Nympsfield Long Barrow on site to connect with the area's Neolithic history.
- Check weather conditions before visiting; the site is open year-round but can be windy on the hilltop.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Parking
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Car
Driving from central Dursley, Coaley Peak is approximately a 10-minute journey via main roads. Free parking is available at the site, but spaces can fill quickly on busy days. The approach involves rural roads with some narrow sections.
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Bus
Local bus services connect Dursley with nearby villages; however, the closest stop to Coaley Peak requires a 2.5 km walk over gentle terrain. Bus frequency is limited on weekends. Tickets typically cost £3–£5 one way.
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Walking
For active visitors, walking from Dursley town center to Coaley Peak takes about 45–60 minutes on well-maintained paths with moderate inclines. The route is scenic but not suitable for wheelchairs or strollers.
Coaley Peak location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Windy Conditions
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Coaley Peak
An Ancient Landscape with Neolithic Roots
Coaley Peak’s significance stretches back thousands of years, marked notably by the presence of the Nympsfield Long Barrow, a Neolithic burial mound situated on the site. Excavations have uncovered human skeletons and pottery, revealing its past as a sacred meeting and burial place. Though the long barrow’s mound was disturbed historically, it is now preserved and maintained by English Heritage, underscoring the area's deep cultural heritage.From Farmland to Flourishing Nature Reserve
Originally farmed as arable land, Coaley Peak has gradually transformed into a vibrant nature reserve under the stewardship of the Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust since 2016. The site supports a rich diversity of wildflowers including orchids, yellow-rattle, clovers, and buttercups thriving in its calcareous and neutral grasslands. Grazing sheep help maintain this unimproved limestone grassland, fostering habitats for birds and other wildlife.Stunning Views and Outdoor Recreation
Perched atop a hill, Coaley Peak offers breathtaking panoramic views across the Severn Vale towards the Forest of Dean. Its open grassy spaces make it an ideal picnic spot for families and a tranquil place to enjoy birdwatching and nature sounds. The site also forms part of the Cotswold Way, providing well-signed walking routes to nearby areas such as Selsley Common and Woodchester Park, enhancing its appeal for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts.Complementary Natural and Historical Attractions Nearby
Adjacent to Coaley Peak lies Coaley Wood, an ancient semi-natural woodland managed by the Woodland Trust, rich in beech trees and open to the public. The National Trust also protects unimproved limestone grassland below the reserve. Together, these areas create a mosaic of habitats and historical sites that enrich the visitor experience, blending natural beauty with heritage.Visitor Experience and Facilities
Visitors to Coaley Peak can enjoy free parking and open access year-round. While there are no restroom facilities on site, the area’s expansive open space and picnic areas provide a relaxed and casual atmosphere. It is a popular spot for dog walking, family outings, and quiet contemplation, with a landscape that changes with the seasons but remains inviting throughout the year.Preservation and Management Efforts
The Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust actively manages Coaley Peak to balance public enjoyment with conservation goals. Their efforts focus on protecting the grassland habitats, supporting native flora and fauna, and preserving the archaeological features. This careful stewardship ensures Coaley Peak remains a treasured natural and cultural landmark in the Cotswolds.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
- Casual
- Fun-filled
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- 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
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
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
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly