Illustration — photo coming soon
High on Rodborough Common stands a striking 18th-century structure that locals call Rodborough Fort or Rodborough Tower.
Built around 1729 by William Leigh, it's not a house you can explore inside, but rather a distinctive landmark that functions almost like a grand folly, likely serving as either a hunting lodge or a vantage point for surveying the landscape.
The real appeal here is the view. From this elevated position, you can see right across the Stroud Valley—rolling hills and patchwork fields stretching out in all directions, which really captures what the Cotswolds are about. The tower itself connects you to the area's past in a tangible way, and the common surrounding it offers excellent walking territory where you might encounter rare butterflies and wildflowers when the weather warms up.
Getting here is straightforward. Stroud, the vibrant town just below with its renowned farmers' market and independent shops, is within easy reach. Nearby villages like Selsley and Minchinhampton are also close enough to visit on the same day if you want to make a broader exploration of the area. It's one of those spots where you can combine a bit of local history with some genuine outdoor time and still have the option to pop into town afterwards.
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