Best places to visit in Wiltshire

Almost half of Wiltshire is designated as National Landscape, recognised for its breathtaking beauty and rich history, meaning visitors are never far from spectacular nature and fascinating attractions. 

With more prehistoric monuments than any other region in England, you can discover ancient burial cairns, stone circles, and hillside carvings interspersed amongst rolling farmland, chalk river valleys, and ancient broadleaf forest. Plus, pretty market towns lined with independent shops and perfectly manicured stately homes and gardens. 

Beyond the landscapes and heritage, Wiltshire is also home to the UK’s best safari park and world-class food and drink, including everything from Michelin star restaurants and country house dining to local farmers markets. 

World famous prehistoric monuments

With more prehistoric monuments than any other region in England, Wiltshire provides an unrivalled window to bygone eras. It’s a must-visit destination for those interested in what life was like before the Romans. 

Stonehenge 

Probably the most famous prehistoric monument in the world, Stonehenge captivates millions of visitors each year with its 5,000-year-old stone circle. Impossibly huge sarsen stones are arranged in a ring and align with the sun on the shortest and longest day of the year, likely used as a temple and gathering place for tribal groups across Britain. The surrounding landscape of Salisbury Plain is littered with thousands more ancient monuments and is a beautiful setting where birds, rare butterflies, and pretty wildflowers live amongst the chalk grasslands. 

Avebury 

Part of the same UNESCO World Heritage Site as Stonehenge, Avebury features the largest stone circle in Britain, though today it is divided by roads and buildings, forming part of the Avebury village. The result is quaint, with ancient stones standing proud next to a medieval church, cute cottages, and a timber-framed pub - all made even more special by the free-roaming sheep which graze on the luscious grass. 

Silbury Hill 

The tallest man-made prehistoric mound in Europe, Silbury Hill reaches a towering 30 metres in height and has been standing over the landscape for over 4,000 years. Shrouded in mystery, its original purpose is unknown, but a walk around the mound lets the imagination run wild. 

Days out in nature

Spending time outdoors amongst Wiltshire’s gorgeous landscapes is a great way to while away the hours; take a pause from busy schedules and marvel at the beauty of the region. 

National Trust Stourhead 

Near the Somerset border, National Trust Stourhead is famous for its perfectly landscaped gardens where rare and exotic trees reflect on a magnificent lake. Surrounded by serene pathways and neoclassical architecture, over 2,600 acres await to be explored, allowing you to truly lose yourself in the beauty of nature. Look out for panoramic views from Alfred’s tower and an 18th century Roman-inspired house full of unique furniture and artworks. 

Savernake Forest 

Nurture the green of your soul with a walk around Savernake Forest, a Special Site of Scientific Interest, where you’ll discover over 4,500 acres of ancient oak forest. One of the country's oldest trees, the Big Bellied Oak, has been standing in Savernake for over a thousand years and the surrounding woodland provides fantastic wildlife watching opportunities, including birds of prey, multiple deer species, and rare fungi and lichen. 

Cotswold Lakes 

A 42-square-mile mosaic of wetland habitat, Cotswold Lakes are a haven for wildlife while also offering plenty of activities. Whether you’re looking for peaceful lakeside walks, keeping an eye out for birdlife and otters, or wish to stretch your legs with a cycle along the pathways, there is plenty of tranquility to be found. Cotswold Lakes also has a wide range of watersports on offer and a lakeside beach for a fun family day out. 

Family days out in Wiltshire 

If you’re looking for more ways to keep the children entertained, Wiltshire has some of the UK’s best family-friendly attractions. 

Longleat 

One of the UK’s best safari parks, Longleat promises a wild and educational adventure for children of all ages. With walking, driving, and boating safaris, visitors can enjoy the chance to see free-roaming lions, tigers, wolves, koalas, sea lions, and plenty more animals from around the world. You can also explore the estate’s glamorous Elizabethan stately home and take a railway ride through the gardens and grounds. 

Cholderton Rare Breeds Farm 

Get up close with rare breed animals at Cholderton Rare Breeds Farm, where children can learn all about why it’s important to preserve native and rare breeds of livestock. An award-winning working farm, its activities include petting ponies and goats, feeding chickens and ducks, taking alpacas for a walk, and cheering on the lamb and piglet racing. There’s also an on-site cafe, children’s play area, and even a vineyard for the grown-ups.

STEAM - Museum of Great Western Railway 

Housed in a restored Grade II railway building, STEAM tells the story of the people who built, maintained, and travelled on the Great Western Railway. The perfect rainy day activity, children of all ages are invited to learn about the pioneering vision of Isambard Kingdom Brunel, while browsing the exhibitions, viewing magnificent locomotives, and even driving a steam train simulator. 

Historic landmarks and attractions 

Beyond its prehistoric monuments, Wiltshire offers plenty of other historic landmarks and attractions, offering a deeper insight into and exploration of this one-of-a-kind county. 

Lacock Abbey 

Featuring an ancient Augustinian abbey surrounded by verdant grass, leafy woodland, and a trickling stream, Lacock is famous as a filming location in Harry Potter, Wolf Hall, and Downton Abbey. Meander through the rose gardens and parkland, discover the history of photography at The Fox Talbot Museum, and uncover the site’s religious origins with a visit to the cloisters. 

Salisbury Cathedral 

With Britain’s tallest spire, Salisbury Cathedral is an 800-year-old Gothic masterpiece where stunning stained glass windows and intricate stonework are sure to amaze. Encapsulated in rolling lawns perfect for picnicking, or strolling amongst riverside gardens, the setting feels like a breath of fresh air. Salisbury Cathedral is also home to the world’s oldest clock, contemporary artworks, and the best-preserved copy of the 1215 Magna Carta. 

White Horses 

The white horses of Wiltshire are a must-see while travelling throughout the undulating landscapes of the county, with eight of the chalk carvings visible on the steep hillsides. While many mistake the horses as ancient, they were in fact carved within the past 300 years, yet still make an attractive focal point while exploring the countryside.  

Independent shopping 

Looking for something special to remember your stay? Wiltshire’s towns have plenty of charming high streets lined with independent shops and boutiques. 

Malmesbury 

A historic market town, Malmesbury stays true to its trading roots with a high street full of independent shops, boutiques, and artisan stores. Most shops and eateries are found on the streets between the Old Memorial Cross and St John’s Bridge, with highlights including Bertie B’s for gifts and souvenirs, Sassy & Boo for women’s clothing, and The Cosy Cone for waffles and ice cream. Not to be missed is the weekly farmers market next to the Market Cross, where you can pick up regional fare and local crafts each Friday. 

Marlborough 

For a stylish spot of retail therapy, Marlborough has one of the widest high streets in the UK lined with Georgian architecture and exuding a thriving market town buzz. Its side streets house hundreds of independently run businesses, featuring upscale homeware and stylish clothing boutiques alongside indie bookshops and zero-waste stores. You’ll also find upmarket brands and trendy cafes and eateries to take a pause in. 

Corsham

Lined by picture-perfect honey-coloured buildings - so pretty they’ve been the site of numerous film sets - Corsham’s high street feels like stepping 200 years back in time. It doesn’t have the most stores out of Wiltshire’s towns, but if you’re looking for a relaxed shopping experience in a beautiful setting with independent retailers selling unique trinkets and gifts, then it makes for a wonderful retail experience. Adding to the magic, you’ll see peacocks roaming the streets, residents of nearby Corsham Court estate, which is also well worth a visit for its beautiful architecture and gardens. 

Food and drink 

With its countryside setting and fertile fields, Wiltshire is an exceptional county for food and drink.  

Local specialties include dried-cured Wiltshire ham, which can be enjoyed in many of the local pubs in a sandwich or alongside egg and chips. In cafes, such as The Summer Cafe in Malmesbury, be sure to sample local favourites like lardy cake, studded with currants and made rich with sugar and spices. Of course, being in the West Country, cider is a local specialty too, with small cideries dotted around the county. 

For a farm-to-table eating experience, make your way to Pythouse Kitchen Garden in Tisbury, where hand-picked vegetables from the market garden meet sustainable produce from the wider community. The setting is beautiful too, with seasonal lunch time menus served up in an elegantly converted potting shed inside a Victorian walled garden. 

If you’re looking for Michelin star eats, Restaurant Hywel Jones by Lucknam Park offers fine dining in a stunning country manor. Their seasonal tasting menu is an opulent way to discover the local provenance over eight courses. 

Wiltshire is also home to a fantastic range of gastro pubs where you can enjoy elevated pub classics and hearty roast dinners, with favourites including The Castle Inn in Castle Combe and The Bunch of Grapes in Bradford-on-Avon. 

Staying in Wiltshire 

Ready for a rural countryside escape where ancient history, picture-perfect villages and glorious nature are all around? Browse our collection of idyllic hideaways in Wiltshire to immerse yourself in the beauty and heritage of the region, before returning to your own serene bolthole.