Attractions and Places To See around Puriton - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Puriton, a village on the edge of the Somerset Levels in England, offers a blend of historical interest and access to significant natural landscapes. While Puriton itself is small, its immediate vicinity and the wider Somerset area feature several notable attractions. The region provides opportunities for exploring diverse natural features and cultural sites.
Best attractions and places to see around Puriton
- The most popular attractions is Brent Knoll Summit and Jubilee Monument, a viewpoint that offers extensive views of the surrounding area, including Glastonbury and the Mendips. This site was once an Iron Age fort.
- Another must-see spot is Shapwick Heath National Nature Reserve Trail, a trail through a significant wetland known for its diverse wildlife and birdwatching opportunities, including starling murmurations. It features a gravel trail across the Avalon marshes.
- Visitors also love Burnham-on-Sea Pier, a traditional seaside pier. It offers coastal views and historical interest at the mouth of the River Parrett.
- Puriton is known for its historical sites, natural reserves, and viewpoints. The area offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient landmarks to wetland ecosystems.
- The attractions around Puriton are appreciated by the komoot community, with 65 upvotes and 41 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: July 2, 2026
Shapwick Heath National Nature Reserve Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
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Brent Knoll Summit and Jubilee Monument
Highlight • Viewpoint
On a clear day, there are great views - Glastonbury, the Quantocks, Exmoor, the Welsh coast and the Brecon Beacons and the Mendips.
It was once an Iron Age fort; the Romans called it "the Isle of Frogs" as it looked like a squatting frog from some angles and in those days, the marshes had not been drained. And at Easter, on the east side, a local group erects three crosses.
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Burnham-on-Sea Pier
Highlight • Cycleway
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Fenlyn's Clyce
Highlight • Historical Site
Many of the clyces you’ll find have been in place for a considerable amount of time and are a fascinating part of the local history. New ones are still built today.
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WWT Steart Marshes
Highlight • Viewpoint
Managed by the Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust, there are salt and freshwater marshes here covering hundreds of hectares. Otters, egrets and wildfowl all call this their home and you’ll find plenty of hides dotted about to spy on them.
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Tips from the Community
Perfect Dario to watch the world go by and look at wildlife
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If it has rained a lot, then recommend if you want to go up and down a different way, you ascend from the north and descend on the south. The south has steps; the north is slippery and steep and needs trail shoes if not dry for some time. If only going up and down, do from the south. On a clear day, there are great views - Glastonbury, the Quantocks, Exmoor, the Welsh coast and the Brecon Beacons and the Mendips. It was once an Iron Age fort; the Romans called it "the Isle of Frogs" as it looked like a squatting frog from some angles and in those days, the marshes had not been drained. And at Easter, on the east side, a local group erects three crosses.
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if just the climb you can park in the village. climb about 15-20 min
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Great spot by the sea to eat an ice cream, fish and chips or just to get some fresh air
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Really enjoyed this tranquil bike path. Plenty of places to stop, have a break and check out the wildlife. Everyone seemed so happy to be there; definitely a good place for a family ride.
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Steart Marshes lies at the mouth of the River Parrett and is a working wetland preserve. Home to a vast population of wildfowl and being an important part of the local flood defences, it’s a wonderful place to walk around. Managed by the Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust, there are salt and freshwater marshes here covering hundreds of hectares. Otters, egrets and wildfowl all call this their home and you’ll find plenty of hides dotted about to spy on them.
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‘Clyce’ or ‘clyse’ is a regional word for sluice and you’ll find many if you walk along the River Parrett. The Somerset Levels is reclaimed land and barely above sea level, resulting in a sprawling wetland area. The water management of the Levels has been going for hundreds, if not thousands of years and sluices are an important part of controlling the run-off from the rivers. Many of the clyces you’ll find have been in place for a considerable amount of time and are a fascinating part of the local history. New ones are still built today.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural features can I explore around Puriton?
Puriton is on the edge of the Somerset Levels, a renowned wetland area. You can visit Shapwick Heath National Nature Reserve, known for its diverse wildlife, including great white egrets and starling murmurations. For panoramic views, ascend Brent Knoll Summit, which offers vistas of Glastonbury, the Quantocks, and the Mendips. Numerous public footpaths also lead from the village into the peaceful rural surroundings.
Are there historical sites to visit in and around Puriton?
Yes, Puriton and its surroundings offer several historical points of interest. In the village, you can see the 13th-century Church of St. Michael and All Angels and the Grade II listed Puriton Manor Gateway. Further afield, Brent Knoll Summit was once an Iron Age fort. You can also find historical water management structures like Fenlyn's Clyce along the River Parrett, which are integral to the history of the Somerset Levels.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near Puriton?
The area around Puriton is excellent for outdoor activities. You can enjoy walking and cycling on the gravel trails of Shapwick Heath National Nature Reserve, which is part of National Cycle Route 3. For more challenging hikes with rewarding views, consider the ascent to Brent Knoll Summit. The wider Somerset Levels and Mendip Hills also offer extensive opportunities for exploring on foot or by bike. For specific routes, check out the nearby MTB Trails around Puriton or Cycling around Puriton guides.
Are there family-friendly attractions near Puriton?
Absolutely. Shapwick Heath National Nature Reserve offers easy gravel trails suitable for families, perfect for wildlife spotting and birdwatching. Burnham-on-Sea Pier provides traditional seaside entertainment and coastal views. For an all-weather experience with animals and play areas, Puxton Park is a popular choice a bit further afield.
Where can I go for walking or cycling trails near Puriton?
For walking and cycling, the Shapwick Heath National Nature Reserve Trail offers a fantastic gravel path across the Avalon marshes, suitable for both. It's part of National Cycle Route 3. You can also find numerous public footpaths directly from Puriton village into the countryside. For more detailed routes, explore the Cycling around Puriton and MTB Trails around Puriton guides.
What is the best time of year to visit Puriton for outdoor activities?
The Somerset Levels and surrounding areas are beautiful year-round. Spring and autumn are ideal for wildlife spotting at Shapwick Heath National Nature Reserve, especially for birdwatching and starling murmurations at dusk. Summer offers pleasant weather for coastal walks at Brean Down or enjoying Burnham-on-Sea Pier. Clear days in any season provide spectacular views from Brent Knoll Summit.
Are there any dog-friendly walks or attractions in the Puriton area?
Many of the public footpaths around Puriton and the wider countryside are dog-friendly, provided dogs are kept under control, especially near livestock. The gravel trails at Shapwick Heath National Nature Reserve are popular for walks with dogs. Coastal walks at Brean Down also welcome dogs. Always check specific attraction rules regarding pets before visiting.
What are the local community highlights or events in Puriton?
Puriton has a strong sense of community. The Puriton Village Hall is a hub for local groups and events. The Triangle at Rye serves as a significant village green, hosting community gatherings. The village also holds annual events such as a carnival, Christmas market, and village fete, which contribute to its vibrant local spirit.
Where can I find information about accommodation or places to eat near Puriton?
While Puriton itself is a small village, the surrounding towns and villages offer various options for accommodation, including hotels, bed and breakfasts, and guesthouses. You'll also find cafes and pubs in Puriton and nearby areas. For more specific local information, you might find resources on the Puriton Parish Council website: puriton-pc.gov.uk.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see near Puriton?
The Somerset Levels, particularly Shapwick Heath National Nature Reserve, are a haven for wildlife. You can spot a diverse array of bird species, including the rare great white egret, and witness spectacular starling murmurations at dusk during colder months. The wetlands also support various insects, amphibians, and small mammals.
Are there any viewpoints offering extensive scenery near Puriton?
Yes, Brent Knoll Summit and Jubilee Monument is a prominent viewpoint offering spectacular views on a clear day. From its summit, you can see Glastonbury, the Quantocks, Exmoor, the Welsh coast, the Brecon Beacons, and the Mendips. It's a rewarding climb for the panoramic vistas.
Most popular attractions around Puriton
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