Where a woodland folly meets a hidden valley and grand garden
This circular walk starts beneath the towering presence of King Alfred’s Tower, drops into the still and historic Six Wells Valley, passes through the heart of the Stourhead landscape, and returns along an eighteenth century carriage ride high above the valley.
Practicalities
01. Start
King Alfred's Tower
Begin at the large car park beside King Alfred’s Tower. Rising from the surrounding woodland, the tower feels almost theatrical, part fairy tale and part statement of power. Built in 1772 for Henry Hoare II, it marks the spot where King Alfred the Great is believed to have rallied his troops in 878.
When open, usually at weekends from spring through autumn, you can climb the two hundred and five spiral steps to the top for sweeping views across Somerset, Wiltshire and Dorset. Even when closed, the tower is worth lingering around. From ground level it is every bit as impressive.
From the tower, head back towards the car park and pick up the wide tree lined avenue known as Top Warren.
02.
The Six Wells Valley
Follow the avenue as it runs parallel with the road. This area was once a rabbit warren, home to thousands of rabbits that appear regularly in estate records. Continue until you pass through a wooden stile and the land suddenly opens out.
On your left, Six Wells Valley drops away quietly. Turn left and descend into the valley, following the path towards the stone monument ahead.
03.
St Peter's Pump
At the heart of the valley stands St Peter’s Pump, a striking stone monument dating back to 1474. It originally formed part of Bristol’s water supply before being moved here in the eighteenth century by Henry Hoare.
The pump marks the source of the River Stour. There were once six springs here, now reduced to one, which gives the valley its name. In low light the valley can feel particularly atmospheric, especially when a low mist gathers near the water. Pause here before continuing straight down the valley towards the ponds.
04.
The Obelisk
As the valley broadens, walk diagonally left and begin climbing the slope on the far side. Pass through a wooden stile and follow the track through a small stretch of woodland.
At the top, go through another gate and you will see the Obelisk ahead, standing on higher ground.
Erected in 1746 and later repaired after a lightning strike, the Obelisk marks your approach into the wider Stourhead landscape.
05.
Stourhead house
From the Obelisk, Stourhead House comes into view across the Great Oar Meadow. Walk diagonally across the grass towards the left side of the house. Pass through two gates by a cattle grid, then turn right through another gate and follow the path around to the front of the house.
This is the midway point of the walk. The Palladian house sits calmly above the world famous landscape garden, which was shaped by grief, ambition and a very deliberate eye for drama.
Toilets are available in the nearby stables. If you want refreshments, the Temple of Refreshment café and the Spread Eagle pub in Stourton are both a short walk beyond the house. When ready, return the way you came back towards the Obelisk.
06.
Terrace Ride
Back at the Obelisk, continue straight on rather than descending into the valley again. Pass through a gate by Terrace Lodge and you are now walking along Terrace Ride, an eighteenth century carriage route once used by the Hoare family to impress their guests on the journey between the house and King Alfred’s Tower.
The long, straight ride runs high above Six Wells Valley, skirting its edge with glimpses down into the trees. It is easy to imagine a carriage rolling through here, the landscape designed to reveal itself in stages.
Follow Terrace Ride all the way to Six Wells car park.
07.
Return to the tower
At Six Wells car park, turn left and follow the clear path back to Alfred’s Tower. This final stretch gently returns you to the car park, closing the loop where you began.
Near by
The Alpine Coffee Co.
Hidden among the trees next to King Alfred’s Tower, The Alpine Coffee Co has become a favourite stop for walkers and cyclists. Coffee is consistently excellent, with a good range of drinks, cakes and locally sourced snacks. There is simple seating under the trees where you can sit, chat and soak up the surroundings. Open Thursday to Sunday, it adds a real sense of reward to the end of the walk.
