The storyline of “The Wind in the Willows” is fairly episodic, so it can be hard to point to a specific single climax for the book. Nevertheless, if we understand the book to be about Toad’s change from a dangerously impulsive, immature character to a functioning adult, then the highest point of the action must be the retaking of Toad Hall, in the chapter entitled, “The Return of Ulysses.” Toad, after his escape from jail, returns to the riverbank to find his house inhabited by weasels and stoats. With the help of his friends Badger, Rat, Otter, and Mole, Toad is able to retake his house using a secret tunnel to gain access. 

The climax is a significant moment in the development of Toad’s character. He learns that he needs the help of his friends to reclaim his home. Mole also learns that he is a brave and capable person, since it is his “reconnaissance“ mission to Toad Hall that draws the weasels out of the building, giving Toad and his allies a significant advantage in the attack.