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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.

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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
  • Environment icon 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.
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Getting There

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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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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.

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