King Alfred's Tower is a 160ft triangular brick folly on Kingsettle Hill, two miles north-west of Stourhead garden on the same National Trust estate. Designed by Henry Flitcroft for Stourhead's second owner, Sir Henry Hoare II, it commemorates the accession of George III in 1760 and the end of the Seven Years' War, and takes its name from King Alfred, who is said to have raised his standard here in 878. A staircase of 205 steps, with no passing places, climbs to a viewing platform looking out over Wiltshire, Somerset and Dorset. Around it, tracks lead through ancient woodland to an Iron Age hillfort; only assistance dogs are allowed inside the tower. Reviewers enjoy the woodland walks as much as the view from the top, but several arrived to find the tower shut. Tips from visitors: the interior opens only on certain days, so check before a special trip; the car park is small and free; and the narrow stairs need a reasonable level of fitness.
