Willow Man

You'll find a 25-metre chalk figure carved into the hillside near East Huntspill, and it's genuinely striking when you spot it. The Willow Man - named for the willow tree branches that form its distinctive shape - dates back to 2008, making it one of Somerset's newer landmarks. It's become something of a talking point locally, not least because nobody's entirely sure who created it or why, which adds a bit of mystery to the whole affair.

The figure's best viewed from a distance, and there's a designated viewpoint where you can see the full outline clearly. Walking up to it takes maybe thirty minutes from East Huntspill depending on your route, and it's a straightforward enough ramble through the Somerset levels. The landscape around here is genuinely rather beautiful - flat, open, and with proper far-reaching views across the marshes.

Historically minded visitors might find it more interesting as a modern art mystery than as traditional heritage, but it's absolutely worth the detour if you're staying at any of the nearby parks - The Hideout, Wall Eden Farm, or Secret Valley are all within easy reach. Kids tend to get a kick out of spotting it from the viewpoint, then racing up to see it close-up, so it works as a break between longer walks. It won't occupy you for hours, but combined with the surrounding countryside it makes for a proper morning out. The Somerset levels themselves are the real draw here - the Willow Man is just the excuse to get out and explore them.