Attractions and places to see around Tidcombe And Fosbury include historical landmarks, natural features, and scenic landscapes within the North Wessex Downs National Landscape. This civil parish in Wiltshire, England, is characterized by its remote settlements, extensive woodlands, and chalk-based geography. Visitors can explore ancient sites, canal systems, and areas offering expansive views. The region provides a blend of cultural heritage and outdoor exploration opportunities.
Last updated: July 2, 2026
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Replacements and Legacy: The original gibbet from 1676 eventually deteriorated. The current gibbet is actually the seventh to stand on the site. Previous versions were replaced due to rotting, being struck by lightning, vandalism, or being blown down by strong winds. The current replica was erected in 1992. While the gibbet was only ever used for the display of George Bromham and Dorothy Newman, its grim history has made it a local landmark and a popular spot for walkers, hang-gliders, and paragliders, offering expansive views across Berkshire, Hampshire, and Wiltshire. The story of the murders even inspired a 1948 silent film called "The Black Legend," made by a young John Schlesinger.
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The Gibbet's Purpose: After their execution, their bodies were brought back to Inkpen and prepared for public display. A large, double gibbet was hastily erected on the long barrow. The bodies of George and Dorothy, bound in chains, were then displayed on either side of the gibbet on March 6, 1676, as a stark and gruesome warning to the local community to deter similar crimes. The location was chosen due to its prominence and being on the border of the two parishes, as there was a dispute over which parish should bear the cost of the gibbet.
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The Murders and Gibbeting: The Crime: George Bromham, a married farm labourer from Combe, and Dorothy Newman, a widow from Inkpen, were having an illicit affair. To be together, they murdered George's wife, Martha Bromham, and their son, Robert. Accounts vary, but it's believed they waylaid Martha and Robert and beat them to death with staves near where the gibbet now stands. One dramatic, though likely far-fetched, version suggests George killed his wife by thrusting her head into a hornet's nest. The Witness: The crime was reportedly witnessed by a villager known as "Mad Thomas," who alerted the authorities. Trial and Execution: George Bromham and Dorothy Newman were tried at Winchester Assizes. They were found guilty and hanged in Winchester on March 3, 1676.
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Kennet and Avon Canal path is a lovely section with plenty of room to pass walkers, be respectful and use a bell
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Crofton Pumping Station advertises that it has the oldest working steam engine in the world. The idea was actually to route the canal through a mountain at a lower altitude using a tunnel. But this project was too expensive and too complex. That's why the pumping station was built. It once reliably filled the canal with water at the geographically highest points of the route.
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Lovely little climb up to faccombe. Especially pretty in the autumn when the leaves are changing colour. Not a long climb, provably about 5 mibs of effort for most. Be careful if descending, pheasants and deer like to hang out around here. The pheasants can be Especially kamikaze at times.
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The area is rich in history. You can visit the atmospheric Ludgershall Castle Ruins, which began construction in the late 11th century and was used as a hunting lodge. Another significant site is Combe Gibbet, a historic monument on Gallows Down offering expansive views. Additionally, the parish features ancient churches like St Michael's Church in Tidcombe and Christ Church in Fosbury, both with centuries of history, and the substantial Neolithic burial mound of Tidcombe Long Barrow.
Tidcombe And Fosbury is nestled within the North Wessex Downs National Landscape, offering beautiful chalk-based geography and extensive woodlands. A notable natural feature is the picturesque Crofton Locks and Pumping Station on the Kennet and Avon Canal, which provides important habitat for wildlife. You can also find elevated points with extensive views, such as from Combe Gibbet or Fosbury Camp, an Iron Age hillfort on Knolls Down.
Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. The Crofton Locks and Pumping Station is a great option, featuring a cafe, gift shop, and picnic area, and is home to the oldest working steam engine in the world. The Ludgershall Castle Ruins are also free to enter and offer an engaging historical experience for all ages.
The region is ideal for various outdoor activities. You can explore the Kennet and Avon Canal Path for walking or cycling. The area's woodlands and chalk downs are perfect for hiking, with numerous paths and bridleways, including sections of Chute Causeway. For more specific routes, you can find options for gravel biking, road cycling, and mountain biking in the guides for gravel biking, road cycling, and MTB trails around Tidcombe And Fosbury.
Absolutely. The parish lies within the North Wessex Downs National Landscape, offering scenic landscapes and numerous paths and bridleways for walking. You can find routes that take you through extensive woodlands like Oakhill Wood and Scot's Poor plantation, or along sections of Chute Causeway. For specific trails, consider exploring the various walking and hiking routes available in the area, including those that pass by historical sites and offer expansive views.
Yes, cycling is a popular activity here. The Kennet and Avon Canal Path provides a relatively flat and scenic route. For those seeking more challenging rides, there are road cycling routes that include climbs like Faccombe Road Climb Through Faccombe Wood. You can find detailed routes for gravel biking and road cycling in the dedicated komoot guides.
The area's natural beauty can be enjoyed year-round. Spring and summer offer lush greenery and warmer temperatures, ideal for canal-side walks and exploring the downs. Autumn brings vibrant foliage to the woodlands, making for picturesque cycling and hiking. Even in winter, the landscape offers a stark beauty, though some paths might be muddy. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.
Visitors frequently appreciate the blend of history and natural beauty. The expansive views from spots like Combe Gibbet are often highlighted. The tranquility of the Crofton Locks and Pumping Station, with its wildlife and historical machinery, is also a favorite. Many enjoy the quiet, off-the-beaten-track feel of the area, especially on routes like the Faccombe Road Climb Through Faccombe Wood.
Beyond the main attractions, the remote settlements of Tidcombe, Fosbury, and Hippenscombe offer a glimpse into local architectural heritage with their historic buildings. Exploring the various footpaths and bridleways through the extensive woodlands, such as Oakhill Wood and Scot's Poor plantation, can lead to quiet, scenic spots away from more frequented areas. Fosbury Camp, an Iron Age hillfort, also provides striking views and a sense of ancient history.
While the parish itself is quite remote, the Crofton Pumping Station has a cafe and gift shop, perfect for a break. For more options, you would typically need to venture to nearby villages or towns, where you can find local pubs and cafes. It's advisable to plan ahead, especially if you're embarking on a longer outdoor activity.
Public transport options directly to the most remote attractions in Tidcombe And Fosbury are limited due to the area's rural nature. Access is generally easier by car. However, some larger nearby towns may have bus services, and you might be able to connect to the area via a combination of transport and walking. It's recommended to check specific routes and schedules with local transport providers if you plan to rely on public transport.
While many of the historical sites and natural trails involve uneven terrain, the Crofton Locks and Pumping Station offers a more accessible experience with its cafe, gift shop, and picnic area. The Kennet and Avon Canal Path, particularly sections near the pumping station, might also offer flatter, more manageable surfaces for some visitors. It's always best to check specific site conditions if you have mobility concerns.


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