Local Guidebook

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There is so much to do in beautiful Wiltshire, so we've compiled a small round up of some fantastic options that should definitely get you started and could easily fill a week.

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For Outdoor Adventurers

 

Have a go at water skiing, go crazy with some friends on a large inflatable, or if you prefer something more peaceful, try windsurfing, sailing, paddle boarding or even kayaking at the Cotswold Water Park. waterpark.org/things-to-do/watersports/

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Get out on the North Wessex Downs and take in some breathtaking scenery with a network of public footpaths and trails. www.northwessexdowns.org.uk/walking/

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The farm is less than 10 minutes from the Ridgeway National Trail. From its start in the World Heritage Site of Avebury, it follows a ridge of chalk hills in a north-easterly direction for 87 miles. Popularly known as ‘Britain’s oldest road’, The Ridgeway still follows the same route over the high ground used since prehistoric times by travellers, herdsmen and soldiers. Today it is popular with walkers, runners, cyclists and horse riders. www.nationaltrail.co.uk/en_GB/trails/the-ridgeway/

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Test your fear of heights at the Arc Climbing Centre in Chippenham. There is a cafe onsite and a range of activities for the whole family, with a skatepark, kids play park and a woodland sculpture trail located alongside. www.theclimbingacademy.com/locations/the-arc/

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For Foodies

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Enjoy a field to bottle adventure with an off-road tour of the Ramsbury Brewery & Distillery, and the estate which grows their raw ingredients. As well as learning how the Ramsbury taste is created, it promises some of the most spectacular views across the North Wessex Downs. www.ramsburyestates.co.uk

Awarded as the ‘Most Authentic Pub’ 2018/2019 by Sawdays’s Pub Awards as well as many others, Three Tuns Freehouse at Great Bedwyn is one for the bucket list in terms of foodie hotspots. The perfect distance from the Kennet and Avon Canal and just on the edge of the Savernake Forest, it’s easy to tie it in during a trip to Wiltshire. Three Tuns Freehouse

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Located on the high street of beautiful Marlborough is one of Rick Steins Restuarants. Enjoy a combination of classic dishes, excellent wines and the freshest ingredients, simply cooked to Rick’s favourite recipes. One of their five restaurant rooms has been transformed into a treasure trove of thoughtful gift ideas, perfect for a little retail therapy. www.rickstein.com

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The Larder - shop from the Gourmet Goat Farmer, is a dedicated outlet to all things goat, from cheeses and milk to meat, burgers and ready meals. The Larder is also home to a bijou little café, where you can enjoy hot and cold drinks, sweet treats and delicious light lunches. Whether you’re simply passing by after a day in Avebury, popping in to pick up something specific or just looking for a relaxing space to stop for a bite to eat and perhaps some new produce to try – we definitely recommend a trip to The Larder! www.thegourmetgoatfarmer.co.uk

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For History Seekers

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Discover the rich and fascinating history of Bowood House and the Lansdowne family, set within 100 acres of beautifully landscaped ‘Capability’ Brown Parkland, Italian-inspired Terrace Garden, and Private Walled Gardens. Children will be thrilled with the adrenaline-fuelled Adventure Playground featuring a life-size pirate ship. www.bowood.org

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Avebury henge and stone circles are one of the greatest marvels of prehistoric Britain, featuring the largest stone circle in Britain - originally of about 100 stones. The henge survives as a huge circular bank and ditch, encircling an area that includes part of Avebury village. Situated at the monument is the Alexander Keiller Museum, which houses one of the most important prehistoric archaeological collections in Britain including many artefacts from the World Heritage Site (WHS) monuments. www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/avebury/

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Lacock Abbey is a quirky country house, developed over the centuries around a former 13th century nunnery and the birthplace of modern photography. It is set in spacious wooded grounds, with plenty of space to picnic and is now recognisable from films varying from Pride and Prejudice to Harry Potter. Visitors can experience the atmosphere of the medieval rooms and cloister court, giving a sense of the Abbey's monastic past. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/wiltshire/lacock