The hill is 137 metres (449 ft) high[3] dominates the low surrounding landscape of the Somerset Levels and is visible from the M5 motorway.

[6] Before the Somerset Levels were drained, Brent Knoll was an island, known as the Isle (or Mount) of Frogs, that provided a safe haven from the water and marshes.

Other finds have included pennant sandstone roof tiles and painted wall plaster, indicative of a substantial building that is more likely to have been a temple than a villa.

It is also believed to be the site of a battle in 875 at which forces of the Anglo-Saxon kingdom of Wessex drove away the Great Heathen Army led by Guthrum,[6] prior to the Treaty of Wedmore, which was signed three years later.

[14] The stone marker on the hill, which also serves as a Triangulation station, commemorates the golden jubilee of Queen Victoria.

[16] According to legend, Ider son of Nuth, who was one of King Arthur's knights, came to the Mount of Frogs on a quest to slay three giants who lived there.