The Snailsbrook Bower

The Snailsbrook Bower sits tucked away near Mells, a modest stone structure that rewards the curious more than it impresses the casual passer-by. It's essentially a Victorian folly - a small, carefully constructed shelter built over a spring, the sort of thing a landowner might commission to mark a scenic spot or create a talking point on their estate. The water still runs beneath it, and there's something quietly satisfying about standing inside and listening to it trickle away underground.

Historically minded folk will get the most from this. It's not a major draw - you won't spend hours here - but it's the kind of thing that slots perfectly into a ramble around the Somerset hills, especially if you're staying somewhere like Glamping on the Hill just three and a half miles away. The walk to find it is half the charm, really. Bring decent boots, allow thirty minutes from Mells itself, and don't expect signage.

Admission appears to be free, though the structure itself is weathered and weather-dependent - some seasons you'll get a better look than others. It's worth a detour if you're already exploring the area, less so if you're routing specifically for it. The surrounding countryside is the real draw; the Bower is simply a lovely excuse to spend time on foot in proper Somerset terrain.