Attractions and Places To See in Wiltshire - Top 20

Wiltshire is rich in history. Beyond the famous Stonehenge and Avebury Stone Circle, you can explore the medieval Malmesbury Abbey, which houses the tomb of King Athelstan. Other notable sites include Old Sarum, an Iron Age hill fort, and Salisbury Cathedral, home to one of the original Magna Carta copies.

Absolutely. Wiltshire is home to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Stonehenge, a megalithic structure dating back 5,000 years, and Avebury Stone Circle, the world's largest stone circle where you can walk among the ancient stones. Nearby, you'll also find Silbury Hill, Europe's tallest prehistoric human-made mound.

Many attractions in Wiltshire are suitable for families. Stonehenge and Avebury Stone Circle offer engaging historical experiences. Longleat Safari Park is a popular choice for wildlife encounters. The Caen Hill Locks on the Kennet and Avon Canal provide an interesting spectacle of engineering and nature. Additionally, many charming villages like Castle Combe Village are pleasant for family strolls.

For breathtaking views, head to Win Green Summit, the highest point in Cranborne Chase, offering panoramic vistas over Blackmore Vale and Salisbury Plain. The Pewsey Downs National Nature Reserve also provides expansive views over chalk downland, including landmarks like Milk Hill and the Alton Barnes White Horse.

Yes, Wiltshire offers numerous opportunities for hiking and walking. You can explore trails in the designated National Landscapes, including parts of The Cotswolds, Cranborne Chase, West Wiltshire Downs, and the North Wessex Downs. For specific routes, consider the 'Broadmead & Bybrook loop from Castle Combe' or 'The Archaeology Trail & the Ridgeway loop from Avebury'. Find more options in the Hiking in Wiltshire guide.

The Kennet and Avon Canal offers picturesque towpaths perfect for walking and cycling. You can enjoy sections like the Kennet and Avon Canal Towpath from Dundas Aqueduct to Avoncliff, passing impressive structures like the Avoncliff Aqueduct and the Caen Hill Locks. For cycling routes, check out the Cycling in Wiltshire guide.

Wiltshire is dotted with picturesque villages. Castle Combe Village is often called the 'prettiest village in England' with its 13th-century architecture. Other notable villages include Malmesbury, Bradford-on-Avon with its historic bridge, and Lacock, a National Trust village with a beautiful abbey.

Wiltshire is beautiful year-round, but many visitors prefer spring and summer for pleasant weather for outdoor activities and exploring the natural landscapes. Autumn offers stunning foliage, particularly in areas like Savernake Forest and along the Kennet and Avon Canal. Check local weather patterns for specific activity planning.

Yes, some attractions in Wiltshire offer accessibility. The visitor center at Stonehenge, including the Sarsen Stone at Stonehenge Visitor Centre, is designed to be wheelchair accessible. It's always recommended to check specific venue websites for detailed accessibility information before your visit.

Wiltshire boasts diverse natural landscapes. Explore Salisbury Plain, a vast open area home to ancient sites. Nearly half of the county is designated a National Landscape, including parts of The Cotswolds, Cranborne Chase, West Wiltshire Downs, and the North Wessex Downs, offering chalk grasslands and ancient woodlands. The Pewsey Downs National Nature Reserve is known for its wildflowers and panoramic views, while Savernake Forest is an ancient woodland within the North Wessex Downs.

Visitors frequently praise Wiltshire for its unique blend of ancient history and natural beauty. The ability to get up close to the stones at Avebury Stone Circle is a highlight for many, as is the picturesque charm of villages like Castle Combe Village. The impressive engineering of the Caen Hill Locks and the serene walks along the Kennet and Avon Canal are also highly appreciated.