Map Of England Wiltshire
Introduction
Wiltshire, located in South West England, is a county steeped in history and natural beauty. From the prehistoric sites of Stonehenge and Avebury, to the rolling landscapes of Salisbury Plain and the Cotswolds, there is something for everyone in this diverse region.
Top Attractions
Wiltshire is home to one of the world’s most famous prehistoric monuments, Stonehenge. This ancient site attracts tourists from around the globe, and for good reason. Another must-see is the Avebury Stone Circle, a lesser-known but equally impressive prehistoric site. For those interested in history, the city of Salisbury boasts a stunning cathedral and the Magna Carta, one of the most important documents in English history.
Hidden Gems
For a unique experience, head to the White Horse at Westbury, a giant chalk horse carved into the hillside. Another hidden gem is the town of Bradford on Avon, with its picturesque canal and quaint shops and cafes. For a taste of rural life, visit the charming village of Lacock, which has been used as a filming location for many period dramas.
Food Scene
Wiltshire is known for its traditional English fare, such as roast beef and Yorkshire pudding. However, there is also a growing foodie scene in the county, with many farm-to-table restaurants and artisanal food producers. The town of Marlborough hosts a weekly market selling local produce, and the city of Bath, just over the border in Somerset, is home to many top-rated restaurants and cafes.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Wiltshire can be a relatively affordable destination, especially if you avoid peak tourist season. There are many free attractions, such as Avebury and the Salisbury Cathedral, as well as plenty of walking and cycling routes that won’t cost a penny. Accommodation can be expensive, but there are many budget-friendly options such as camping and self-catering cottages.
Outdoor Adventures
Wiltshire is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with many walking and cycling trails, as well as opportunities for horse riding and fishing. The county is also home to the Cotswold Water Park, which offers a range of water sports including kayaking and paddleboarding. For a more challenging adventure, head to the White Horse Trail, a 90-mile route that takes you through some of the most scenic parts of Wiltshire.
Historical Landmarks
Aside from Stonehenge and Avebury, Wiltshire is home to many other historical landmarks. The city of Salisbury has a rich history, with a medieval cathedral and a 14th-century clock tower. The town of Malmesbury is also worth a visit, with its impressive abbey and Anglo-Saxon heritage. For a glimpse into the county’s industrial past, head to the Kennet and Avon Canal, which was once a major transport route for goods.
Family-Friendly Activities
Wiltshire is a great destination for families, with many attractions and activities suitable for all ages. Longleat Safari Park is a popular choice, with its drive-through animal park and adventure playgrounds. The city of Bath also has plenty to offer, including the Roman Baths and the Jane Austen Centre. For a more educational experience, visit the Wiltshire Museum in Devizes, which has a range of exhibits on the county’s history.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
For those looking for a more unusual experience, Wiltshire has plenty to offer. The town of Corsham is home to an abandoned underground quarry, which has been used as a filming location for many TV shows and movies. The village of Lacock also has a unique claim to fame, as the birthplace of photography – the inventor of the first photographic negative, William Henry Fox Talbot, lived there.
Natural Wonders
Wiltshire’s natural beauty is abundant, from the rolling hills of the Cotswolds to the sweeping landscapes of Salisbury Plain. The county is also home to many nature reserves and parks, such as Westwood Manor and Langford Lakes. For a truly breathtaking experience, take a hot air balloon ride over the countryside at sunrise or sunset.
Vibrant Nightlife
Although Wiltshire is not known for its nightlife, there are still plenty of options for those who want to let their hair down. The city of Salisbury has a good selection of bars and pubs, as well as a theatre and cinema. The town of Devizes is also a popular spot for a night out, with its many restaurants and bars.
Local Markets
Wiltshire has a long tradition of market towns, and there are many weekly markets selling local produce and artisanal crafts. The town of Marlborough hosts a large market every Wednesday and Saturday, while the town of Devizes has a weekly farmers’ market. The city of Salisbury also has a regular market selling everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts.
Beaches and Mountains
Although Wiltshire is a landlocked county, it is still within easy reach of some of England’s best beaches and mountains. The coast of Dorset is just a short drive away, with its stunning Jurassic Coastline and seaside towns such as Weymouth and Bournemouth. The Cotswolds, a range of hills in south-central England, are also within easy reach and offer some of the most picturesque scenery in the country.
Cultural Immersion
For a true taste of Wiltshire’s culture, head to one of the many festivals and events held throughout the year. The city of Salisbury hosts an annual arts festival, while the town of Devizes has a popular food and drink festival. The county is also home to many traditional events, such as the Wiltshire Folk Festival and the Devizes to Westminster International Canoe Race.
Art and Music Scene
Wiltshire has a thriving arts and music scene, with many galleries and venues showcasing local talent. The Salisbury Arts Centre hosts a range of exhibitions, performances and workshops, while the Wiltshire Music Centre in Bradford on Avon has a regular programme of classical music concerts. The town of Corsham is also home to the Pound Arts Centre, which has a cinema, theatre and gallery.
Walking Tours
Wiltshire is a great destination for walking tours, with many guided and self-guided options available. The city of Salisbury has a range of tours, including a ghost tour and a medieval tour. The town of Marlborough has a historic walking tour, while the village of Lacock has a photography tour. For a more challenging option, try the Wessex Ridgeway, a 138-mile trail that takes you through some of the most scenic parts of Wiltshire.
Architectural Marvels
From medieval cathedrals to Georgian townhouses, Wiltshire has a rich architectural heritage. The city of Salisbury boasts a stunning cathedral, a 14th-century clock tower and many other historic buildings. The town of Bradford on Avon has a range of Georgian and Victorian architecture, while the village of Castle Combe is known for its picturesque streets and historic cottages.
Historical Sites
Aside from Stonehenge and Avebury, Wiltshire is home to many other historical sites. The town of Malmesbury has a rich Anglo-Saxon heritage, while the village of Lacock has been used as a filming location for many period dramas. The city of Salisbury also has a long history, with evidence of human habitation dating back to the Neolithic era.
Biking Routes
Wiltshire is a great destination for cycling enthusiasts, with many routes suitable for all levels of ability. The Kennet and Avon Canal is a popular choice, as is the Sustrans Route 4, which takes you through some of the most scenic parts of the county. For a more challenging option, try the Wiltshire Cycleway, a 160-mile route that takes you through some of the most picturesque parts of the county.
Wellness Retreats
For those looking for a more relaxing experience, Wiltshire has plenty to offer in terms of wellness retreats and spas. The city of Bath, just over the border in Somerset, is known for its Roman Baths and thermal spas. The Lucknam Park Hotel and Spa, located in Colerne, is a luxurious retreat offering a range of treatments and wellness programmes.
Adventure Sports
Wiltshire is a great destination for adventure sports, with many opportunities for rock climbing, caving and kayaking. The Cotswold Water Park is a popular choice for water sports enthusiasts, while the town of Warminster has a range of outdoor activities including archery and air rifle shooting. For a truly unique experience, try a hot air balloon ride over the county’s stunning landscapes.
With its rich history, natural beauty and diverse range of attractions and activities, Wiltshire is a destination that truly has something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in prehistoric monuments, outdoor adventures, traditional English fare or modern cultural experiences, you’re sure to find it in this beautiful