Attractions and Places To See around Burghclere - Top 20

Burghclere is situated on the northern edge of the North Wessex Downs, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, offering extensive countryside for exploration. Key natural features include Ladle Hill Iron Age Hillfort, a biological Site of Special Scientific Interest known for its chalk grassland and sublime views. You can also visit the Old Burghclere Lime Quarry, a Nature Reserve and SSSI, which supports rare flowers and butterflies. For panoramic views, head to Combe Gibbet on Gallows Down or Beacon Hill in the southern part of the parish. Watership Down also offers picturesque countryside and high viewpoints.

Yes, Burghclere is rich in history. You can visit the 12th-century Church of the Ascension and Church of All Saints in Old Burghclere, both with significant historical architecture. The Sandham Memorial Chapel, owned by the National Trust, is a unique cultural site housing visionary paintings by Sir Stanley Spencer, inspired by his WWI experiences. The medieval Manor Barn at Manor Farm, built for the Bishop of Winchester, is another Grade I listed historical structure. Additionally, Ladle Hill Iron Age Hillfort offers a glimpse into ancient history with its unexcavated earthworks.

The area around Burghclere is excellent for outdoor pursuits, especially walking and cycling. The North Wessex Downs AONB provides numerous footpaths and trails. You can find various routes for different sports:

• For MTB Trails, explore options like the 'View from Combe Gibbet – Combe Gibbet loop from Newtown' or 'Ladle Hill Iron Age Hillfort – Watership Down Hill loop from Heads Hill'. Find more at MTB Trails around Burghclere.
• For Gravel Biking, consider routes such as 'Kennet and Avon Canal – Nunhide Lane Gravel Track loop from Thatcham'. More options are available at Gravel biking around Burghclere.
• For Easy Hikes, try the 'Penwood Forest Loop' or 'Rolling hills – Trail marker loop from Burghclere'. Discover more at Easy hikes around Burghclere.

While specific family-friendly attractions are not highlighted, the natural landscapes around Burghclere offer great opportunities for family outings. The numerous footpaths and trails in the North Wessex Downs are suitable for walks with children. Herbert Plantation and Common Land, a Local Nature Reserve, provides easy paths through ancient woodland. Many of the historical sites, such as the churches and the exterior of Burghclere Manor House, can also be enjoyed by families interested in history and architecture.

Burghclere is surrounded by a fine network of footpaths, particularly within the North Wessex Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. You can find easy hikes like the 'Penwood Forest Loop' or the 'Rolling hills – Trail marker loop from Burghclere'. For more challenging walks with rewarding views, consider the trails around Watership Down or Ladle Hill Iron Age Hillfort. The area around Sandham Memorial Chapel also offers a circular walk exploring places that inspired artist Sir Stanley Spencer.

The spring and summer months are particularly good for enjoying the natural beauty of Burghclere. In June, the Old Burghclere Lime Quarry is known for its rare flowers like White Helleborine, Fly Orchid, and Wild Thyme. These seasons offer pleasant weather for walking, cycling, and exploring the various natural and historical sites. However, the countryside is accessible year-round, with each season offering its own unique charm.

Yes, there are options for refreshments. While not directly within Burghclere, The Rowbarge is a highly-rated country pub located on the Kennet and Avon Canal, a short distance away. It's known for its food, cask ales, and large beer garden, and is dog-friendly. Many walking and cycling routes in the wider area will pass by or near other local pubs and cafes.

Beyond the local churches and manor, the region boasts several significant historical sites. Combe Gibbet is a macabre but historically significant monument from 1676 with wonderful views. Douai Abbey, a Benedictine Abbey near Thatcham, is a Grade II* listed building with a rich history dating back to 1903. Nearby, you can also find Donnington Castle, a 14th-century gatehouse that was central to a Civil War siege.

Yes, Highclere Castle is conveniently located approximately two miles from Burghclere. This famous castle, widely recognized as the setting for 'Downton Abbey,' offers tours of its state rooms, gardens, and an Egyptian Exhibition. It makes for an excellent day trip from Burghclere.

Visitors particularly appreciate the blend of historical significance and natural beauty. The sublime views from spots like Ladle Hill Iron Age Hillfort and Combe Gibbet are highly rated. The challenging yet rewarding climbs, such as the Watership Down Climb, are also popular. The komoot community has shared over 40 photos and given more than 90 upvotes, highlighting the scenic walks and diverse landscapes.

Yes, Burghclere offers several spots for nature enthusiasts. The Old Burghclere Lime Quarry is an important Nature Reserve and Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), known for its chalk grassland habitat which supports many species of butterfly and rare flowers. Herbert Plantation and Common Land is another designated Countryside Heritage Site and Local Nature Reserve, featuring ancient woodland species and numerous paths for short walks.

Many of the outdoor areas and walking trails around Burghclere are suitable for dog walking. The North Wessex Downs AONB, Herbert Plantation, and the trails around Watership Down offer ample space for dogs to explore. Always remember to keep dogs under control, especially near livestock, and follow local guidelines for responsible dog ownership. Some pubs, like The Rowbarge, are also dog-friendly.