Attractions and Places To See around Fonthill Bishop - Top 20
Attractions and places to see around Fonthill Bishop, a village in Wiltshire, England, encompass a blend of historical landmarks, natural features, and cultural points of interest. The area is known for the expansive Fonthill Estate, which includes Fonthill Lake and surrounding parkland. Visitors can explore significant historical sites and enjoy the diverse landscape of chalk grassland, ancient woodlands, and river valleys. This region provides various opportunities for outdoor exploration and appreciating local heritage.
Best attractions and places to see around Fonthill Bishop
- The most popular attractions is Old Wardour Castle, a viewpoint that was built at the end of the 14th century. This castle, now a ruin, suffered during the English Civil War and is set amongst parkland overlooking a lake.
- Another must-see spot is Cold Kitchen Hill Trig Point, a viewpoint and natural monument. Located at 257 meters, it offers views across Wiltshire and the West Country.
- Visitors also love Grovely Wood Forest Trail, one of the largest mixed woodlands in southern Wiltshire. This forest is recognized for its nature conservation importance and contains historical elements like a Roman road and Iron Age hill forts.
- Fonthill Bishop is known for its historical sites, natural viewpoints, and extensive woodlands. The area offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient castles to scenic high points and protected forests.
- The attractions around Fonthill Bishop are appreciated by the komoot community, with 37 upvotes and 25 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: July 2, 2026
Cold Kitchen Hill Trig Point
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
Church of St Peter and St Paul, Heytesbury
Highlight • Religious Site
In the 13th century the holder of the deanery became, and remained, the Dean of Salisbury. The college at Heytesbury and its property belonged to him. Most parishes came under the jurisdiction of the Bishop of the Diocese, but Heytesbury belonged to the Dean and was therefore known as a peculiar. The Cathedrals Act of 1840 dissolved the college and abolished the prebends.
The church itself is described by Pevsner as 'a large and impressive church, but an over-restored one'. The external view is dominated by its low, massive and square Norman tower in the centre. Most of the building dates from the late 12th, the 13th and the 15th centuries.
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Old Wardour Castle
Highlight • Viewpoint
The castle may seem familiar as it inspired the castle in the film, Robin Hood, Prince of Thieves.
Set amongst lovely parkland and overlooking a lake, it is a great place to visit. Managed by English Heritage, you can visit from 10am - 4pm over the weekend. Entrance costs £5.70 for adults. More information: english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/old-wardour-castle/prices-and-opening-times.
Tip by
Grovely Wood Forest Trail
Highlight • Forest
Tip by
Philipps House in Dinton Park
Highlight • Monument
Once used by the YWCA as an artists retreat, you can now visit the park, which is under the management of the National Trust.
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Fonthill Bishop.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
Good climb, was across fields but fine today as they’ve been harvested. Might have been tricky earlier in the year
0
0
beautiful location by the old castle in the winter
1
0
Definitely worth a visit beautiful ancient castle and amazing history
1
0
The house you can see in the park is Philipps House. The house nestles in the steep wooded banks behind it and looks out over the expansive parkland. It’s separated from the park by a special deer fence called a ha-ha which allows uninterrupted views across the park and stops deer and cattle from into the garden. The house was designed by Jeffry Wyatville in a Georgian style with Greek-inspired columns supporting the large portico front. It was named Dinton House after the park for the Wyndham family. It was later renamed to Philipps House when it was sold to Bertram Philipps. In 2023 a 25-year lease of the house was conditionally sold for £2m. https://www.struttandparker.com/properties/st-marys-road-6
2
0
Amazing views of the hills. If your lucky you can see the gliders circling above from the Wing Farm Airfield
0
0
an absolutely beautiful halfway point to sit and have a snack or two. the views are breathtaking.
0
0
Cold Kitchen Hill has a trig point at 257 m. Alfred's Tower at Stourhead is visible, as well as vast swathes of Wiltshire and the West Country.
0
0
One of the largest mixed woodlands in southern Wiltshire, situated on a chalk ridge above the River Wylye. It is recognised for its nature conservation importance through designation as a County Wildlife Site. Among the species found here is the Purple Emperor butterfly.
4
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore around Fonthill Bishop?
The area is rich in history. You can visit Old Wardour Castle, a 14th-century ruin set in parkland. The Church of St Peter and St Paul in Heytesbury is a beautiful Grade I-listed building with parts dating back to the 12th century. Also, the remains of the infamous Fonthill Abbey, known as 'Beckford's Folly', offer a glimpse into an extravagant past. The Archway, a Grade I listed entrance to Fonthill Park, and All Saints' Church, with its 12th-century font, are also significant historical landmarks.
Are there good viewpoints in the Fonthill Bishop area?
Yes, for panoramic views, head to Cold Kitchen Hill Trig Point. Located at 257 meters, it offers extensive views across Wiltshire and the West Country. The parkland surrounding Old Wardour Castle also provides scenic vistas overlooking a lake.
What natural attractions are there to visit?
Fonthill Lake is a beautiful, sinuous lake created in the 1740s, known for its scenic parkland and mature trees. Adjacent to it is the Fonthill Grottoes Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). You can also explore Grovely Wood Forest Trail, one of the largest mixed woodlands in southern Wiltshire, recognized for its nature conservation importance. The wider Tisbury area features diverse landscapes including chalk grassland, ancient woodlands, and the Nadder river valley.
Are there family-friendly activities or attractions?
Many attractions are suitable for families. Old Wardour Castle and Grovely Wood Forest Trail are both tagged as family-friendly. The scenic walks around Fonthill Lake and exploring the historical grounds of the Fonthill Estate also offer enjoyable outings for all ages.
What outdoor activities can I do near these attractions?
The area is excellent for outdoor pursuits. You can find numerous routes for hiking, running, and gravel biking. For example, there are moderate hiking trails like the 'Fonthill Lake loop from Hinden' or the 'All Saints Church – Fonthill Lake loop from Fonthill Gifford'. Gravel biking options include the 'Great Ridge Gravel Trail' or 'Hindon Village – Fonthill Arch loop'. You can find more details and specific routes in the hiking guide, running guide, and gravel biking guide for Fonthill Bishop.
Are there hiking trails around Fonthill Bishop?
Yes, there are several hiking trails. Popular options include the 'Fonthill Lake loop from Hinden' (moderate, 12.2 km) and the 'Fonthill Lake – All Saints Church loop from Fonthill Gifford' (moderate, 10.4 km). For an easier walk, consider the 'Fonthill Fields Descent loop from Sherrington' (easy, 6.9 km). These trails allow you to explore the scenic lake, woodlands, and historical sites. More routes are available in the hiking guide for Fonthill Bishop.
What is the best time of year to visit Fonthill Bishop for outdoor activities?
The area's diverse landscape, with its woodlands, lake, and chalk grasslands, is enjoyable throughout the warmer months. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and exploring, with vibrant foliage or blooming wildflowers. Summer is ideal for longer days outdoors, though some trails might be more exposed. Winter can be beautiful, but some paths may be muddy.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions in Fonthill Bishop?
Visitors frequently praise the rewarding views from spots like Cold Kitchen Hill Trig Point. The historical significance and picturesque settings of places like Old Wardour Castle and the tranquility of Grovely Wood Forest Trail are also highly appreciated. The blend of natural beauty and rich history makes the area appealing for exploration.
Can I visit the Fonthill Estate and its landmarks?
The Fonthill Estate is a central feature of the area, offering opportunities for walks and appreciating its heritage. While the New Wardour Castle, a Grade I-listed country house within the estate, is privately owned and not open to visitors, the Wessex Ridgeway trail passes nearby, allowing you to admire its architecture and parkland. Public footpaths and areas like Fonthill Lake are accessible for exploration.
Are there any unique architectural features to see?
Absolutely. The Archway, a grand Grade I listed entrance to Fonthill Park, is a notable Palladian-style structure. All Saints' Church, also Grade I listed, showcases 14th and 15th-century work. The Old Rectory, a late 17th-century building, and the mid-18th century Boathouse or Water Temple by Fonthill Lake are further examples of the area's architectural heritage.
What are some lesser-known or 'hidden gems' in the area?
Beyond the main highlights, exploring the smaller, historical structures like the Boathouse or Water Temple on Fonthill Lake, or seeking out the fragments and ornamental stonework from the original Fonthill Abbey, can offer unique discoveries. The diverse chalk grasslands and ancient woodlands within the Tisbury area also hold many quiet spots for nature lovers.
Most popular attractions around Fonthill Bishop
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions:
