SS8741 : Summit cairn, Great Rowbarrow

Great Rowbarrow

510m Elevation
22m Prominence
England Country
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SS8741 : Summit cairn, Great Rowbarrow

Roger Cornfoot Photo source

Explore routes near Great Rowbarrow

Walks starting near this hill. Open a route to check its map, distance and full itinerary.

Locking Parklands–Hutton–Christon

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Banwell–Vering Down–Winscombe

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Westhay–Mearse–Shapwick

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Cheddar Reservoir-Strawberry Line-Hythe

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Route planning notes

These notes describe possible approaches. Check a route's map and access information when planning your walk.

The Rowbarrow Circuit

A scenic loop starting from the nearby village, providing panoramic views and a chance to explore the surrounding countryside.

5.5 km ~2 hours Moderate
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Subdodd

Elevation

510m

1,673 ft

Prominence

22m

Coordinates

51.1620, -3.6096

SS875415

OS Map

181

Explorer: OL9E

At the Summit

The summit of Great Rowbarrow features a prominent cairn, marking the highest point and providing a great photo opportunity. There’s also a wooden bench for those who wish to rest their weary legs and enjoy the view.

Terrain & Geology

Grassy with some rocky outcrops and easy-to-navigate paths.

Great Rowbarrow is primarily composed of limestone, characteristic of the Mendip Hills. This limestone is rich in fossils and has been shaped over millennia by erosion, creating a unique landscape that is home to diverse flora and fauna.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, hikers can enjoy views over the rolling Mendip Hills, the iconic Glastonbury Tor in the distance, and on a clear day, even the Severn Estuary.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Rowbarrow' likely derives from Old English, meaning 'a mound where the crows gather'.

Historical Significance

Great Rowbarrow has historical significance as a site of ancient burial mounds and has been a focal point for local folklore.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

There's a small parking area in the village of Westbury-sub-Mendip, just a short walk from the trailhead.

Public Transport

Regular bus services are available from nearby towns, with the closest stop about a mile from the mountain.

Nearby Facilities

In Wells, you'll find cafes, restaurants, and public toilets, making it an ideal starting point before your adventure.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Watch for sheep on the trails, as they have been known to block your way while giving you a disapproving look.

General Safety Tips

  • Check weather conditions before setting out
  • Carry appropriate clothing and equipment
  • Let someone know your planned route
  • Take a map, compass, and GPS device
  • Carry emergency supplies: food, water, first aid kit, torch

Hills

Some common questions about the hills answered

Are there group walks up Great Rowbarrow?

Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Great Rowbarrow through the maps

Are there other walkers around Great Rowbarrow?

Activity varies by location and time, but Walkmates lets you see whether others have shared walks or shown interest in this area. Find other people through the walking friends search walking friends for Great Rowbarrow search or of course create your own walk for Great Rowbarrow

Can I organise a walk to Great Rowbarrow?

Yes. If there aren’t any walks listed already, you can create a walk and make it available for others to join.

If you're signed up to Walkmates, you can create a walk to Great Rowbarrow.

How do I find a walk up this hill?

There are often multiple ways to walk this hill, depending on experience and route preference. Walkmates helps you explore walks and routes that others have shared.

Can I suggest a new route up Great Rowbarrow?

Yes. You can suggest or create routes to share with others. Walkmates focuses on the social side of walking, so routes are used to help people organise walks and explore areas together, rather than as detailed navigation tools or route libraries.

Other uses really appreciate knowledgeable walkers sharing their routes. Share your favourite route to Great Rowbarrow here

The is an error or something incorrect about this hill. How do I let you know?

We always strive to keep the information on Walkmates as accurate as possible. If you find an error, please let us know through the contact form and we'll aim to correct it as quickly as possible

Location

Great Rowbarrow location map

Grid reference: SS875415

View on OpenStreetMap

Opens a map in a new tab, centred on the hill.

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