May Hill

Important notice -

In line with government guidance, our countryside space is open for local visitors to access for walks. We ask all visitors to follow guidance on social distancing to keep everyone safe.

Wild and open landmark crowned with a distinctive row of pine trees

More about this place

A family enjoying the outdoors in autumn or winter

Visiting information for this winter 

In England and Northern Ireland, our gardens, parks and countryside remain open for local people to exercise. Shops, houses and other indoor areas are closed, and cafés are takeaway only. The safety of our staff, volunteers and visitors from the nearby community remains our priority and we urge you to book your visits in advance and stay local. All places in Wales are currently closed. Please check the property webpage before you travel.

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May Hill

Things to see and do

Walking

Woods are the perfect place to take your dog for a walk

Walking your dog in the Cotswolds 

From shady woodlands to open fields, we look after some incredible landscapes that you and your well behaved pooch can explore.

Trig point at the top of the hill

May Hill countryside walk 

Experience an exhilarating walk over this prominent landmark starting on May Hill Common and returning via the woodlands on the Huntley Estate.

It can be bleak on the summit

May Hill views 

An invigorating walk that will clear the lungs, with spectacular views from May Hill, one of the area's best known landmarks.

Pony grazing on May Hill common
May Hill   Gloucestershire

Grazing horses

There is a long tradition of horses and ponies grazing at May Hill. The ones you can see today are owned by a local commons grazier. They are semi-feral and although inquisitive and usually docile they need to be treated with respect.

Follow are simple tips so everyone can enjoy May Hill
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May Hill

Our work

Landscape photo of Belted Galloway herd with ranger in landrover

Conservation grazing 

The cattle grazing on May Hill are managed by the ranger team at the Ebworth Centre near Stroud.

Autumn's a good time to start clearing the scrub

Managing the scrub 

Scrub is a complex and important habitat but if left, it can quickly take over. More fragile habitats can be damaged so it's important we manage it.

There's always plenty to eat in the summer

Girls in May 

Places like May Hill are islands of peace and quiet not just for people but for wildlife too. Our volunteers help us to keep this place very special.

Conservation grazing is a good way to encourage wildflowers
May Hill   Gloucestershire

Making a difference

Bluebell, Burdock, Bramble, Vetch and their buddies are working hard to make a big difference to the wildflowers on May Hill. Their munching is starting to paying off.

Find out more
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May Hill

Join or give

Sunflowers at Rhosili and South Gower Coast, Wales

We need your support 

Our natural world and places of historic beauty are at serious risk. Give today and together, we can help nature recover, bring people closer to it, and ensure our shared history continues to inspire us all. Thank you for your continued support.

Visitors in the garden at a National Trust place

Experience more with National Trust membership 

As we gradually and safely open more of the places we care for, there’ll be more opportunities to explore gardens and parklands near you. If you’re a member, you can access all these places free, together with most National Trust car parks. It’s so important for everyone to have fresh air, birdsong, big skies and open spaces to enjoy. Your membership will go towards looking after all of this for generations to come.

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May Hill

Get involved

Volunteers get involved in all sorts of tasks

Volunteering opportunities in the Cotswolds 

There's plenty to do in the Cotswolds. Find out how you can be part of looking after special places that we care for.

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