![](https://cdn.prod.rexby.com/categories/sightseeing.png)
Sightseeing
Sightseeing
1-2h
All ages
King Alfred's Tower is a 49 metre tall folly located on Kingsettle Hill, on the Stourhead Estate in Somerset, England. The triangle-shaped tower was designed by architect Henry Flitcroft and commissioned by banker Henry Hoare II in 1762 to commemorate the end of the Seven Years' War against France and the accession of King George III. It is also believed to be located on the site where Alfred the Great rallied the Anglo-Saxons before the Battle of Edington in 878. Visitors can reach the viewing platform at the top of the tower by climbing the 205-step helical staircase located in one of the corner projections. The brick tower is dressed with Chilmark stone and surrounded by a moat to deter birds from entering the hollow centre. It also features a statue of King Alfred and an inscription panel celebrating his legacy.
Want to see more?
I have created curated maps and itineraries for travellers that want to travel like me.