Somerset Monument: A Towering Tribute to a Napoleonic Hero
A majestic 19th-century tower honoring a Waterloo hero, set atop the Cotswold hills with panoramic views and deep historic roots.
The Somerset Monument, located near Hawkesbury Upton in Gloucestershire, England, is a striking 36-meter-high stone tower built in 1846 to honor Lord Robert Edward Somerset, a distinguished general at the Battle of Waterloo. Set atop a hill, the monument offers panoramic views of the Cotswold countryside and stands as a prominent historic landmark within a richly layered landscape dating back to Neolithic times.
A brief summary to Somerset Monument
- Badminton, Hawkesbury, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Budget
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during early morning or late afternoon for the best natural light and photography opportunities.
- Wear comfortable shoes as the approach involves walking uphill on uneven terrain.
- Check ahead for access to the viewing platform, as the internal staircase may be closed for safety.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy the scenic surroundings and expansive countryside views.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Car
Traveling by car from central Gloucestershire, take the A46 towards Badminton, then follow local signs to Hawkesbury. Parking is generally available near the monument, with a journey time of approximately 30 to 45 minutes depending on traffic. Be mindful of local parking regulations.
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Walking
From Hawkesbury Upton village center, a half-mile walk north along the A433 leads to the monument. The route includes an uphill section on uneven terrain, requiring comfortable footwear and moderate fitness. The walk typically takes 15 to 25 minutes.
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Public Transport
Local bus services connect nearby towns such as Badminton and Wotton-under-Edge to Hawkesbury Upton, with travel times ranging from 20 to 40 minutes depending on the origin. From the village, walking to the monument is necessary. Bus services may be limited on weekends.
Somerset Monument 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 Somerset Monument
Historical Significance and Dedication
The Somerset Monument was erected in 1846 as a memorial to Lord Robert Edward Somerset, a notable military figure who served as a general at the Battle of Waterloo in 1815, a decisive conflict that ended the Napoleonic Wars. Lord Somerset was also the nephew of the sixth Duke of Beaufort and had political ties as a Member of Parliament for Cirencester. The monument commemorates his military achievements and local heritage, symbolizing the pride of the Gloucestershire region.Architectural Features and Design
This imposing structure reaches approximately 36 meters (about 100 feet) in height and is designed as a slightly tapering square stone tower. Its construction reflects mid-19th-century commemorative architectural styles, standing prominently on elevated ground to dominate the surrounding landscape. An entrance on the northeast side provides access to an internal staircase of 144 steps leading to a viewing platform, although access may sometimes be restricted for safety or maintenance reasons.Setting Within the Cotswold Landscape
The monument is situated on a hill north of Hawkesbury Upton, offering sweeping views over the Cotswold countryside, including notable landmarks such as the Tyndale Monument to the northwest. The surrounding area is rich in history, with evidence of human activity dating back to Neolithic times, including nearby long barrows and Iron Age remains. The village of Hawkesbury itself has Saxon origins and is part of a conservation area that preserves the historic character of the landscape.Visitor Experience and Surroundings
Visitors to the Somerset Monument can enjoy scenic walks in the vicinity, with paths that traverse the gently rolling hills and characteristic Cotswold stone walls. The monument's elevated position makes it an excellent spot for photography, especially during early morning or late afternoon light. While the monument is sometimes closed to the public, it remains visible from the Cotswold Way and nearby vantage points, providing a striking focal point in the rural setting.Conservation and Local Importance
The Somerset Monument is a Grade II* listed building, reflecting its architectural and historic importance. Although the structure requires maintenance and repair, it continues to be a significant cultural landmark within the Gloucestershire conservation area. Its presence contributes to the identity and heritage of Hawkesbury and the wider Cotswold region.Complementary Attractions Nearby
The monument's location offers opportunities to explore other historic and natural sites, including the William Tyndale Monument, Dyrham Park, and Highgrove Gardens. These nearby attractions enrich the cultural landscape and provide additional context to the area's rich history and natural beauty.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Somerset Monument
0.0 km
A towering Victorian tribute to Lord Robert Edward Somerset, commanding panoramic views over the historic Cotswold landscape.
Walk The Cotswolds
17.8 km
Explore the Cotswolds' breathtaking landscapes and charming villages with Walk The Cotswolds, your gateway to England's picturesque countryside adventures.
Haresfield Topograph
21.5 km
A three-dimensional map landmark on the Cotswold escarpment with panoramic views toward Wales.
Southmead Round Barrow
21.6 km
Explore the ancient Southmead Round Barrow, a Bronze Age burial mound nestled within Bristol’s tranquil Badock’s Wood.
Bristol Rocks
22.3 km
Discover the beauty and adventure of Bristol Rocks, the ultimate destination for rock climbing enthusiasts and nature lovers in the heart of Bristol.
Royal Cres
22.4 km
Experience Bath’s Royal Crescent, a stunning Georgian crescent with iconic Ionic columns, historic charm, and sweeping parkland views.
Marlborough Buildings
22.4 km
Georgian elegance in a Grade II listed terrace, where Bath's architectural ambition meets refined 18th-century townhouse design.
The Royal Crescent
22.5 km
Georgian perfection in stone: 150 metres of architectural harmony overlooking Bath's parkland landscape.
Royal Victoria Park Bath
22.6 km
Explore the lush landscapes and historical charm of Royal Victoria Park, a tranquil oasis in the heart of Bath.
Mary Shelley's House of Frankenstein
22.7 km
Discover the captivating life of Mary Shelley and her iconic creation at the House of Frankenstein in Bath, a must-visit for literature lovers.
The Jane Austen Centre
22.7 km
Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Jane Austen at The Jane Austen Centre, a captivating tribute to the iconic author's life and works in Bath.
Siccaridge Wood
22.7 km
Explore Siccaridge Wood: A serene nature reserve near Cirencester, offering beautiful trails and diverse wildlife for nature lovers.
Argyle St & Pulteney Bridge
22.7 km
Explore the iconic Argyle Street and Pulteney Bridge, where history meets beauty in the heart of Bath, offering stunning views and charming cafes.
Blaise Museum
22.8 km
Explore the enchanting Blaise Museum in Henbury, Bristol, where local history comes alive through fascinating artifacts and beautiful parkland.
Pulteney Bridge
22.8 km
Experience the stunning Pulteney Bridge in Bath, a unique architectural gem adorned with shops, offering picturesque views and rich history.
Unmissable attractions to see
National Trust - Horton Court
2.7 km
Step back in time at Horton Court, a beautifully restored Tudor manor nestled in the scenic Cotswolds countryside with rich history and cinematic charm.
National Trust - Newark Park
5.5 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.
The Ancient Ram Inn (Advance Book only)
5.8 km
Step into England’s oldest haunted inn, where centuries of dark history and restless spirits create an unforgettable paranormal experience.
Ozleworth Park
5.9 km
Discover the serene beauty and historic charm of Ozleworth Park, a tranquil Cotswold escape with lush gardens and a unique circular graveyard.
Wotton Hill
6.4 km
Explore Wotton Hill’s scenic Cotswold escarpment with ancient woodlands, historic landmarks, and sweeping views to Wales on clear days.
Westonbirt, The National Arboretum
7.6 km
Explore 600 acres of global tree species, seasonal wonders, and tranquil paths at Westonbirt, the UK's premier National Arboretum.
William Tyndale Monument
8.5 km
Explore the William Tyndale Monument, a historic tribute to the English Reformation, offering stunning views and a serene hiking experience.
Highgrove Gardens
11.1 km
King Charles III's organic masterpiece: four decades of horticultural innovation in the Cotswolds.
Cam Peak
11.5 km
Discover Cam Peak’s breathtaking views, wildflower meadows, and ancient hillfort on a scenic Cotswold Way walk near Dursley.
National Trust - Dyrham Park
12.3 km
Explore Dyrham Park’s majestic 17th-century mansion, vast deer-filled parkland, and elegant gardens for a serene blend of history and nature.
The Dining Room at Whatley Manor
12.5 km
Experience Michelin-starred sustainable fine dining with creative seasonal menus in the elegant setting of Whatley Manor’s Dining Room.
Uley Long Barrow (Hetty Pegler's Tump)
12.5 km
Explore a 5,000-year-old Neolithic burial mound with ancient chambers and stunning Severn Valley views at Uley Long Barrow, Gloucestershire.
Castle Combe
12.6 km
Step into Castle Combe, a timeless Cotswold village famed for its honey-hued stone cottages, medieval charm, and serene rural beauty.
Coaley Peak
13.8 km
Coaley Peak offers sweeping Cotswold views, ancient Neolithic heritage, and vibrant wildflower meadows on a tranquil hilltop reserve.
Nympsfield Long Barrow
13.8 km
Explore the ancient Neolithic burial chambers of Nympsfield Long Barrow, set amid stunning Gloucestershire countryside and steeped in mysterious legends.
Essential places to dine
Bybrook
12.4 km
Michelin-starred modern British fine dining in a historic Cotswold manor with fresh, seasonal produce from its own kitchen garden.
Grey's Brasserie
12.5 km
Sophisticated yet relaxed dining at Whatley Manor, featuring globally inspired small plates and traditional Sunday roasts in a stunning Cotswolds setting.
Wilder
14.1 km
Discover an intimate fine dining adventure in Nailsworth with inventive tasting menus and expertly paired wines at Wilder.
The Long Table
17.5 km
A pay-as-you-can community restaurant in Stroud serving locally sourced meals that nourish both body and spirit.
Bathampton Mill Bath
20.8 km
Historic riverside gastropub blending traditional British charm with scenic views and modern dining near Bath.
The Lock Up
20.9 km
A relaxed neighbourhood restaurant in East Bristol serving seasonal modern British food with warmth and style.
Bathwick Boatman Riverside
21.9 km
Charming riverside dining in Bath’s historic boathouse, serving fresh seasonal dishes with warm, family-run hospitality.
Hudson Steakhouse
22.1 km
Experience expertly aged steaks and Victorian charm in Bath’s beloved Hudson Steakhouse, where tradition meets refined dining.
Restaurant at The Bath Priory
22.2 km
Elegant French and British dining in a charming country house setting with exquisite cuisine and a superb wine list in historic Bath.
The Bath Priory
22.2 km
Elegant 5-star country house hotel in Bath offering fine dining, award-winning gardens, spa, and a serene escape near the city centre.
Bianchis
22.3 km
Neighbourhood Italian trattoria serving refined Northern Italian cuisine and handmade pasta in Montpelier, Bristol.
Montagu's Mews
22.4 km
Contemporary British fine dining in a Georgian setting, where seasonal ingredients and technical mastery meet genuine hospitality.
Olive Tree Restaurant
22.4 km
Bath’s only Michelin-starred restaurant, where seasonal British ingredients shine in inventive, multi-course tasting menus beneath the Queensberry Hotel.
Henry's Restaurant Bath
22.4 km
Intimate Georgian fine dining celebrating seasonal British cuisine with worldly influences and zero-waste principles.
Crescent Restaurant & Bar Bath
22.5 km
A cozy, family-run restaurant near Bath’s Royal Crescent serving fresh, seasonal dishes with local ingredients in a warm, inviting setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Domestic Science
13.0 km
Discover curated vintage treasures and contemporary homewares in a charming Georgian townhouse at the heart of Tetbury.
Highgrove Shop - Tetbury
13.0 km
Exclusive royal estate boutique offering sustainable crafts, fine china, and artisan gifts inspired by King Charles III’s Highgrove Gardens.
The Little Gift Shop
14.4 km
Curated gifts and local treasures in the heart of Nailsworth's independent retail scene.
Luxury Smell
17.4 km
Bristol's premier niche fragrance boutique offering expert consultations and exclusive luxury scents.
Esse's Dream Gift Shop
18.6 km
A charming independent gift shop in Bristol, full of carefully chosen cards, homewares, and local treasures for every occasion.
Duffle Vintage
19.2 km
Authentic 60s and 70s vintage fashion in intimate, inspiring room settings.
Butterfly Ball
19.2 km
Discover mindful gifts and spiritual treasures in Stroud’s welcoming Butterfly Ball shop, a hub for creativity and community since 2011.
Moonflower Too
19.3 km
A vibrant gift shop in Stroud’s historic High Street, blending unique homewares with local charm and ethical brands.
Handmade Cotswolds
19.5 km
Discover exquisite handmade crafts and unique artisan gifts in the heart of Stroud’s vibrant Cotswolds community.
All Good Things Outlet Bristol
19.6 km
Discover affordable luxury and timeless fashion at All Good Things Outlet Bristol, where premium clothing gets a stylish second chance.
Previous Homewares
19.8 km
Discover quirky gifts, vintage treasures, and beautiful homewares at Corsham’s beloved boutique, Previous Homewares.
Willow Uk Ltd
19.9 km
Discover timeless gifts, antiques, and design inspiration at Willow UK Ltd, Corsham’s boutique blending art and heritage.
Adana Collective Antiques
19.9 km
Discover timeless treasures and beautiful antiques at Adana Collective, a curated gem in Stroud’s vibrant Salmon Springs Trading Estate.
Emery Gate Shopping Centre
20.6 km
Chippenham’s only covered shopping centre offering national brands, local shops, cafes, and ample parking in a convenient central location.
BAM Store + Space
20.9 km
Discover unique gifts and local artistry at BAM Store + Space, Easton’s vibrant hub for creativity and community.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Full Glass Bar
12.4 km
Historic charm meets modern luxury at The Full Glass Bar, a refined cocktail and wine haven in Castle Combe’s iconic Manor House.
The Weighbridge Inn
14.7 km
Historic 17th-century Cotswolds pub famed for its unique 2in1 pies, local ales, and warm, rustic charm.
The Smoking Dog
16.1 km
A welcoming traditional pub in Malmesbury serving hearty classics and fine ales in a cozy, dog-friendly setting.
Melt Bars - Mobile Event & Cocktail Bars
16.2 km
Bespoke handcrafted mobile bars and expert cocktail service tailored for events across the UK from Chippenham’s premier specialists.
The Wellesley Arms
19.3 km
Historic coaching inn turned gastropub offering hearty British fare and cozy village charm in Sutton Benger near Chippenham.
The Quarrymans Arms, Box Hill
19.3 km
Charming countryside pub and boutique inn on Box Hill with stunning views, hearty local fare, and cozy rooms near Corsham and Bath.
The Horse & Groom, Charlton
19.4 km
A historic 16th-century Wiltshire pub and inn blending cosy charm, seasonal British cuisine, and luxury rooms in a tranquil countryside setting.
Cotswold Mobile Bar Hire
19.8 km
Bringing bespoke, fully stocked mobile bars with rustic charm and quirky inflatable pubs to your Cotswold events.
The Somerford Arms
19.9 km
A family-run village pub in Little Somerford offering exceptional food, warm hospitality, and a charming countryside atmosphere.
Old Road Tavern
20.2 km
A traditional Chippenham pub with quality ales, lively music, and a welcoming garden, cherished by locals and visitors alike.
The Cellar by Wine Monkey
20.6 km
A boutique wine bar and shop in Chippenham offering expertly curated wines, small plates, and a cozy, stylish atmosphere for wine lovers.
The Flying Monk
20.7 km
A friendly and lively pub in Chippenham’s Market Place, renowned for craft ales, community events, and warm hospitality.
The Three Crowns
21.1 km
A lively, traditional pub in Chippenham known for real ales, live music, and a welcoming community spirit.
The Old Crown Inn
21.6 km
A charming traditional British pub near Bath offering hearty fare, real ales, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere in historic Kelston.
Saint James Wine Vaults
22.3 km
Authentic Bath pub blending historic charm with vibrant live music and creative community spaces.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Capones
10.7 km
Historic nightclub in Dursley with legendary ties to Al Capone, offering vibrant weekend nightlife and pulsating music.
Trio Nightclub
19.1 km
Experience Stroud’s vibrant nightlife at Trio Nightclub, where music, dancing, and energetic vibes light up weekend nights.
E11evn's Nightclub
20.4 km
A lively late-night hotspot in Chippenham offering weekend clubbing with a spirited local vibe and energetic dance floors.
Lomah
22.4 km
Experience Bath’s industrial-chic nightlife at Lomah, a stylish underground club with hip hop beats and a laidback vibe for 21+ guests.
Dare to Club
22.5 km
Experience Bristol’s vibrant, inclusive nightlife at Dare to Club, where diverse music and welcoming vibes create unforgettable nights.
Zero / Zero
22.6 km
Experience Bath’s vibrant nightlife at Zero / Zero, a cozy nightclub and cocktail lounge with a lively atmosphere and late-night beats.
Sub 13
22.6 km
Bath’s award-winning cocktail bar and nightclub offering masterclasses, vibrant nightlife, and a heated terrace in a stylish three-floor venue.
Lakota
22.7 km
Bristol's gritty heartbeat: underground raves, thunderous bass, and nights that blur into dawn at this St Paul's legend.
Motion
22.9 km
Bristol’s iconic warehouse nightclub, Motion, pulses with underground beats and community spirit, celebrating decades of electronic music culture.
Komedia
23.0 km
Bath’s vibrant community-owned venue offering comedy, live music, cabaret, and more in a beautifully restored historic cinema.
Labyrinth Bar & Nightclub
23.0 km
Experience Bath’s vibrant nightlife at Labyrinth Bar & Nightclub with four unique rooms, eclectic music, and a lively social atmosphere.
The Tub
23.1 km
A vibrant student nightclub on University of Bath campus, perfect for dancing, socializing, and late-night fun in a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
Second Bridge
23.2 km
A lively nightclub in Bath offering cocktails, shisha, and a buzzing beer garden for vibrant nightlife experiences.
The Loco Klub
23.3 km
An atmospheric subterranean arts venue in Brunel’s Temple Meads arches, where tunnels, brick vaults and intimate soundscapes host club nights, theatre and live music.
Popworld - Bristol
23.7 km
Dance to 90s and 00s pop anthems under neon lights at Bristol's ultimate nostalgic nightclub, where cheesy hits and POPTAIL cocktails fuel epic nights out.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Relaxing
- Historic
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
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
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly