5 National Trust spots to visit in Wiltshire
Attractions | Country Pubs | Countryside | Family | Outdoor Activities | Pub | Pub Accommodation | Posted 2024.04.17
Wiltshire is home to a variety of beautiful National Trust spots, offering luscious gardens, ancient woods and cultural estates. The National Trust is Europe’s largest conservation charity, protecting nature, beauty and history for everyone to enjoy.
In this blog, we explore five Natural Trust sites found in Wiltshire, alongside recommendations for pub accommodation for you to enjoy a lovely stay in this idyllic region.
National Trust spots to visit in Wiltshire
Stourhead
Stourhead has been ‘a living work of art’ since the 1740s and is renowned for its captivating landscape garden, with a serene lake reflecting temples and rare trees. The 1,072-hectare estate is filled with chalk downs, ancient woods, and farmland teeming with wildlife.
Explore garden highlights including The Temple of Flora, The Pantheon, and The Palladian Bridge, each offering unique stories. Delve into the history of Stourhead House, unveiling its distinctive Regency library and elegant Chippendale furniture.
Lacock
Lacock Abbey, situated in the heart of the Lacock village, is a historic country house built on the remains of a former nunnery. Within the abbey, visitors can explore a museum dedicated to William Henry Fox Talbot, a former resident famous for his contributions to photography.
Over its 800-year history, Lacock Abbey has served various purposes. It started as a nunnery in the 1200s before becoming a Tudor family home. It now stands as a popular filming location, for films and shows like Harry Potter and Downton Abbey.
The Courts Garden
Discover The Courts Garden in Wiltshire, where a charming Arts and Crafts garden serves as an oasis. Inside this English country garden, discover peaceful water gardens, herbaceous borders, and organically shaped topiary. Walk through the arboretum showcasing various species of trees and spring bulbs. Be sure to explore highlights such as the Water Garden with its Lily Pond and Dye pool, the Temple and the Kitchen Garden and Orchard, offering beautiful vistas.
Avebury
Begin exploring the ancient site of Avebury by visiting the world’s largest stone circle, which includes a cove and two smaller stone circles, all enclosed by a large stone henge bank and ditch, dating back approximately 4,600 years. Next, visit The Alexander Keiller Museum, where archaeological treasures have been excavated from the Avebury World Heritage Site to be showcased. Conclude your visit at Avebury Manor, refurbished to depict various historical periods and offering a hands-on experience of past residents’ lives.
Great Chalfield Manor
Nestled in the Wiltshire countryside discover Great Chalfield Manor – a 15th-centuary manor manor house with arts and crafts gardens. Cross the upper moat and pass by barns, a gatehouse, and a quaint parish church adorned with soldiers, griffins, and a monkey on its rooftops. Wander through romantic gardens featuring terraces, topiary houses, a gazebo, lily pond, roses, and views of the fishpond.
Need inspiration on where to stay in Wiltshire? Check out our recommended pubs with accommodation below:
The White Hart Inn
When imagining a quintessential British country pub, the White Hart Inn perfectly embodies the ideal image. The pub boasts a golden cobbled stone exterior, wooden beams, and inviting open fires. Additionally, the pub offers a range of cosy rooms, ideal for accommodation while exploring Wiltshire.
Find out more information and book The White Hart Inn
Timbrell’s Yard
Nestled beside the River Avon, discover Timbrell’s Yard, a lovely Cotswold pub. Step inside to find a collection of delightful bedrooms offering picturesque views of the surrounding countryside.
Find out more information and book Timbrell’s Yard
Sign of the Angel
Located in the pretty village of Lacock, you’ll discover Sign of the Angel, an award-winning 15th-century coaching inn. With its warm and welcoming ambiance, this pub offers a cosy atmosphere. Indulge in the pub’s delightful food and enjoying a peaceful night’s sleep.
Find out more information and book Sign of the Angel
The Pettifers Hotel
If you’re in search of a dog-friendly pub in Wiltshire, look no further than The Pettifers Hotel, where tradition meets contemporary comfort. The pub boasts an award-winning AA Rosette bistro, offering beautifully cooked, locally sourced cuisine.
Find out more information and book The Pettifers Hotel
The Grosvenor Arms
Situated in Hindon, The Grosvenor Arms is a country pub that provides fantastic accommodation choices, with its’ nine beautifully renovated bedrooms. Locally renowned for its pub classics, homemade pies, fresh seafood, and delicious pizzas, this establishment is a favourite among locals and visitors alike.
Find out more and book The Grosvenor Arms
Written by Issy Matthews
