Discover the South Somerset follies

Barwick Park, near Yeovil in South Somerset is the site of four weird and wonderful follies created during the first half of the nineteenth century. Located on the estate boundary at the four points of the compass, they are eccentric ornaments serving no useful purpose but are a source of fascination and speculation by all. The follies can be viewed on a short circular walk from Barwick Village Hall along lanes and tracks frequented by wildlife.

Approached by a flight of steps, Jack the Treacle Eater, is an arch of large rough-hewn stones with a tower topped by a statue of Hermes; a nearby wooden seat allows visitors to sit and ponder its reason for being. Its mysterious name is often attributed to Jack, a runner for the Messiter family of Barwick House, who fuelled his journeys to and from London with a diet of treacle.

Continuing on their journey walkers will come across the Fish Tower, an untapered column some 50ft (15m) high so called because there was once a fish weathervane perched at its apex. Next is the Rose Tower, a round tapering cone with a ball on the top supported by three arches, while in the distance lies the plainer Obelisk. The walk leads back to the village past Barwick House and its lake, now in private ownership; looking back up the hill there are fine views of Jack the Treacle Eater.

South Somerset is also home to several other follies linked to myths and tales of intrigue. The Burton Dynsent Tower overlooks the lowlands near Langport - legend tells of a cow that journeyed up the tower and was led down to safety twice, her third attempt was not so lucky. There’s an 18th century folly tower near Montacute, one of three built by friends who would run up a flag as invitation to the others to gallop over for a convivial evening.

And unusual buildings around the region include the small Round House Lock Up at Castle Cary, which served as an overnight hold for drunks, and Stembridge Tower Mill near High Ham, the last thatched windmill in England built in 1822.

For details about the South Somerset follies, other places to visit and accommodation suggestions log onto Visitsouthsomerset.com.