Attractions and Places To See around Downhead - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Downhead include a variety of historical sites, natural landscapes, and recreational routes. This region, located in Somerset, offers more than 20 notable locations for exploration. Visitors can discover grand estates, medieval castles, and dedicated paths suitable for cycling and walking. Downhead provides diverse options for those interested in local history and outdoor activities.
Best attractions and places to see around Downhead
- The most popular attraction is Longleat House Drive, a historical site that offers a direct approach to Longleat House, popular for cycling. It is part of a national cycle route, allowing access through the grounds.
- Another must-see spot is Longleat House, an impressive Elizabethan prodigy house. The estate, which began construction in 1568, remains in the same family today and includes a safari park.
- Visitors also love Nunney Castle, a picturesque moated medieval castle built in the 1370s. This castle features a compact layout with four round corner towers and thick defensive walls.
- Downhead is known for historical sites, castles, and scenic routes. These include grand estates, medieval fortifications, and dedicated cycling paths.
- The attractions around Downhead are appreciated by the komoot community, with 2 highlights receiving 185 upvotes and featuring 46 photos.
Last updated: May 21, 2026
Colliers Way
Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway
Tip by
Longleat House
Highlight • Monument
Construction on the house began in 1568 on the site of a priory which had burnt down. Originally designed for Sir John Thynn, the estate remains in the same family today. The flamboyant artist Alexander Thynn and his son Ceawilin Thynn currently live in the house.
You can visit Longleat from 10am - 5pm daily. It's well worth exploring the safari and other attractions as well. Tickets for adults cost £17.00 online. You can buy them here: longleat.co.uk
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Longleat House Drive
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
Colliers Way Cycle Route (NCN 24)
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
Nunney Castle
Highlight • Castle
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Downhead.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
This picturesque moated medieval castle was built in the 1370s by Sir John de la Mare. It's heavily influenced by French design and features a compact layout with four round corner towers and thick defensice walls.
2
0
Absolutely lovely, relatively flat throughout and is generally pretty quiet. Some areas have a few bumps thanks to roots and some parts during the wetter winter weather get a couple of centimetres of running water here and there. Overall one of my favourite places to cycle and will continue to feature on my routes!
0
0
Ignore suggestions that you can 'open up' along this cycleway! It is well used by riders with young children, disabled people on buggies (especially towards the Radstock end), occasional horseriders as well as pedestrians with or without dogs. The southern half from Hatchet Hill to Great Elm is quieter, but watch out for encroaching stinging nettles in late summer!
0
0
Longleat House drive is a stately way to arrive at the house and a great road to ride. The house and surrounding safari park are paid entry but there is access via this road and several others through the estate.
0
0
Nice run down to the house. Watch out for cross wind on windy days
1
0
Brilliant! A beautiful and peaceful cycleway akin to the Bristol to Bath cycleway... but much quieter!
0
0
Same as above - there is a cafe, but attempt to use it at your own risk. They allowed us to buy a coffee, but promptly asked to move on immediately after. Coffee is mediocre anyway...
2
0
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there family-friendly attractions around Downhead?
Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. Longleat House offers a safari park and extensive grounds. The Colliers Way is a family-friendly cycling and walking path, as is the Longleat House Drive where you might spot animals. Additionally, Nunney Castle is a picturesque medieval site that children often enjoy exploring.
What historical sites can I visit near Downhead?
The region is rich in history. You can explore Longleat House, an impressive Elizabethan prodigy house dating back to 1568. Another significant historical site is Nunney Castle, a moated medieval castle built in the 1370s with a distinctive French design.
Are there good cycling routes in the Downhead area?
Absolutely. The Colliers Way and the Colliers Way Cycle Route (NCN 24) are popular paths utilizing disused railway lines, offering a quiet and scenic ride. The Longleat House Drive is also part of a national cycle route, allowing access through the estate grounds. For more options, check out the Cycling around Downhead guide.
What kind of walking trails are available near Downhead?
You'll find a variety of walking trails. The Colliers Way is suitable for walking, offering a good surface. For dedicated hiking, routes like the 'Nunney Castle – Nunney Church loop' provide easy options, while 'Asham Wood – Tree Swing loop' offers a moderate challenge. Explore more trails in the Hiking around Downhead guide.
Are there any wheelchair accessible trails around Downhead?
Yes, the Colliers Way Cycle Route (NCN 24) is known for its good surface and is considered wheelchair accessible, making it a great option for a leisurely outing.
Where can I find parking for attractions in Downhead?
For the Colliers Way Cycle Route (NCN 24), you can find parking at Great Elm, Mells, Kilmersdon, and Radstock. For Longleat House, dedicated visitor parking is available on site, though specific details should be checked on their official website.
Can I spot wildlife near Downhead attractions?
Yes, particularly around the Longleat House Drive and within the Longleat estate, where you might encounter animals like giraffes, hippos, and kangaroos as part of the safari park experience. The natural trails also offer opportunities for local wildlife spotting.
Are there pubs with food near the walking and cycling routes?
Yes, if you're exploring the Colliers Way Cycle Route (NCN 24), there is a good pub in Mells, approximately one mile from the route. Near Nunney Castle, you'll find a pub directly opposite, offering a convenient stop for food and drink.
What are some good viewpoints in the Downhead area?
The Longleat House Drive offers an amazing approach with views of the impressive Longleat House. Nunney Castle also provides picturesque views of the moated medieval structure.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Downhead?
Visitors frequently appreciate the historical significance of sites like Longleat House and Nunney Castle. The scenic and quiet nature of the cycling and walking paths, such as the Colliers Way, is also highly valued for outdoor activities.
Are there any challenging outdoor activities near Downhead?
For those seeking more challenging routes, the Gravel biking around Downhead guide features several difficult routes, including the 'Honeypot Lane Singletrack – Wylye Valley Quiet Road loop' and 'Alfred's Tower Climb – Honeypot Lane Trailhead loop'. Similarly, the Cycling around Downhead guide also lists difficult options.
What is the best time to visit Downhead attractions?
While specific seasonal tips are not provided for all attractions, the region's outdoor paths like the Colliers Way are enjoyable in milder weather. Historical sites like Nunney Castle can be visited year-round, with some visitors noting summer fairs or music events, and the possibility of a cozy visit in winter.
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions:
