Attractions and Places To See around Shalbourne - Top 20

historical place

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.

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.

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.

Wonderful views to the North along this stretch

Kennet and Avon Canal path is a lovely section with plenty of room to pass walkers, be respectful and use a bell

Savernake Forest is a reminant of the vast ancient woodland which once covered much of Britain. It's a former Royal Stag hunting forest. Today it's privately owned but open to the public and managed by the Forestry England. It's home to numerous ancient trees, mostly Oaks between 1,000 & 1,100 years old. Many are individually named, reflecting the appearance and character of these amazing life forms.

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.