Wiltshire road trip: Stonehenge

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Wonders of Wiltshire Road Trip

Explore the wonders of Wiltshire on an enchanting road trip, delving into ancient history, breathtaking landscapes, and remarkable engineering. Marvel at the iconic Stonehenge mysterious stone circle. Discover the medieval charm of Salisbury, home to the awe-inspiring Salisbury Cathedral. Be immersed in nature’s wonderland of the picturesque North Wessex Downs, Ridegway Trail and Savernake Forest immersing in rolling hills, quaint villages, and serene riverside settings and ancient woodland..

Uncover the region's Civil War past, delving into key battles and sieges, and follow the Wiltshire White Horses Trail, hillside chalk figures showcasing unique designs and panoramic views. Visit the impressive Caen Hill Locks, a marvel of engineering along the Kennet and Avon Canal, offering boat trips and scenic walks.

Experience the magic of Wiltshire, From ancient wonders to scenic vistas, where history, nature, and human ingenuity intertwine to create an unforgettable journey.

Visit mystical Wiltshire

Follow this road trip through mystical Wiltshire, where ancient history meets stunning landscapes. Marvel at the iconic Stonehenge, delve into the medieval charm of Salisbury Cathedral, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the North Wessex Downs, Ridgeway Trail, and Savernake Forest. Explore the region's Civil War history, and follow follow the Wiltshire White Horses Trail. Discover impressive engineering with a visit to the remarkable Caen Hill Locks along the Kennet and Avon Canal.

☑ Wiltshire Driving Route:

This zig-zag route covers an overall distance of around 128 miles (207km) with a drivetime of 6 hours 30 minutes to 4 hours. This road trip through the wonders of Wiltshire provides the flexibility to explore West and East Wiltshire separately or together, depending upon the time you have. Make this Stonehenge and the Wonders of Wiltshire road trip your own, by using the flexible itinerary to fit the time you have from 3 days to 2 weeks. Get the best out of your Wiltshire road trip and cherry-pick from a great choice of places to visit and things to see.

Stonehenge:

On your road trip, make sure to include a visit to Stonehenge, an iconic UNESCO World Heritage Site shrouded in mystery. Marvel at the ancient stone circle, ponder its enigmatic origins and immerse yourself in the captivating atmosphere of one of the world's most renowned prehistoric monuments. Its exact purpose and origin remain shrouded in mystery, making it a captivating and enigmatic destination for visitors from around the world.

☑ Salisbury Cathedral:

Don't miss a visit to Salisbury Cathedral during your Wiltshire holiday. This magnificent medieval structure boasts stunning architecture, including the tallest spire in Britain, and houses the world's oldest working clock. Explore its rich history, admire at its intricate craftsmanship, and take in the serene beauty of its surroundings, making it a must-see destination for history and architecture enthusiasts alike.

Copyright: Visit Wiltstshire

☑ Wiltshire White Horses:

Include the Wiltshire White Horse Trail on your road trip itinerary. Follow this scenic route to discover ancient hillside chalk figures, each with its own unique design and panoramic views. Explore Wiltshire's cultural heritage and natural beauty while uncovering the fascinating history behind these iconic landmarks.

☑ Longleat:

Ensure Longleat is part of your Wiltshire odyssey. This historic estate offers a remarkable combination of stately homes, landscaped gardens, and a safari park. Immerse yourself in centuries of history, encounter exotic wildlife, and enjoy family-friendly attractions, making it a highlight of your Wiltshire adventure.

☑ Ridgeway Trail:

Explore the ancient Ridgeway Trail during your Wiltshire break. This incredible path offers breathtaking views and a chance to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the countryside. Whether you're hiking, cycling, or simply enjoying a leisurely stroll, the Ridgeway Trail promises an unforgettable outdoor experience amidst Wiltshire's stunning landscapes.

☑ Caen Hill and Kennet and Avon Canal:

Make sure to include a visit to Caen Hill and the Kennet and Avon Canal on your road trip itinerary. Marvel at the impressive flight of locks at Caen Hill, a remarkable feat of engineering, and explore the scenic beauty of the canal, whether by boat, on foot, or by bike. Experience the tranquillity of the waterway and immerse yourself in the rich history and picturesque landscapes that make this area a must-see destination on your journey.

☑ Wiltshire History and Heritage:

Delve into Wiltshire's rich history and heritage, spanning medieval England, the Civil War era, and the textile industry. Explore Wiltshire’s medieval past, on show in historic towns, castles, and churches. Uncover the region's role in the English Civil War, and see sites that played their roles. Learn about key battles and sieges that shaped Wiltshire's history. Trace the legacy of Wiltshire's textile industry, which flourished during the Industrial Revolution.

☑ Wiltshire Maps:

This Wiltshire road trip is mapped out on 3 Wiltshire maps, including a flexible driving route. Use the Overnight Stay to locate 30+ campsites, 50+ motorhome stops, pub stops & almost wild spots, 50+ hotels and 30+ B&Bs, guesthouses and lodges and the Uncover More map pinpoints to 20+ viewpoints, 110+ places of interest and 30+ hidden gems. This planner is suitable for motorhomes, campervans and caravans as sites are included. If you are travelling in a car, choose to camp or stay in a B&B or hotel are also listed.

☑ Wiltshire Itinerary:

This travel guide for exploring the rolling countryside, and Wiltshire’s history and heritage covers visitor information for 14 destinations along the way, plus loads of links and references. Check out walks in the area, brief histories, the White Horse Trail villages and much more with references and 100s of attractions. Browse things to do in Wiltshire, including local experiences and activities available as bookable links.

England Road Trip Travel Guide: Wiltshire Overview

  • Save hours searching the internet using our well-researched inspiration and signposting to plan your perfect Wiltshire holiday.

  • Enjoy a road trip to Wiltshire on this fully flexible driving route itinerary.

  • The Wiltshire destination guide includes references and embedded links to over 80 attractions, experiences, and activities.

  • Browse from a range of bookable, local experiences and activities, by location, such as tours, boat trips, bike hire, and things to do in Wiltshire.

  • Easily locate viewpoints, hidden gems, wild swim spots and more.

Buy the Wiltshire Road Trip in two ways:

Individual Road Trip

One-off payment: 1 year access. No subscription to cancel.

All Southern England Road Trips

One-off payment: 1 year access. No subscription to cancel.

More things to do in Wiltshire

The Wonders of Wiltshire road trip membership provides access to detailed Wiltshire planning resources and an interactive map of Wiltshire with attractions, hidden gems, viewpoints and more, ensuring a seamless and comprehensive road trip experience through this fascinating county. An additional Wiltshire map pinpoints places to stay either in your motorhome or campervan or hotels and B&Bs if travelling by car. This road trip covers Wiltshire County - a large county and therefore has been split into two. See more details below on what to do on your days out in Wiltshire.

What things are there to do in Wiltshire on a road trip?

Wondering what things there are to do in Wiltshire? Our Wiltshire maps and guides pinpoint a huge variety of amazing days out, including:

  • Stonehenge World Heritage Site: Visit the UNESCO sites of Stonehenge and Avebury to witness ancient wonders, marvel at prehistoric stone circles, and explore the mysteries of these historic landmarks.

  • Devizes: Explore Devizes with its rich history and attractions, including the famous Wiltshire Museum, and the impressive Devizes Market. Enjoy a brewery tour, nearby Devizes and other things to do in Devizes and nearby.

  • Kennet and Avon Canal: Experience the marvels of the Kennet and Avon Canal, highlighted by the awe-inspiring Caen Hill Locks, showcasing an impressive flight of locks that are a testament to engineering and canal history.

  • Market towns and charming villages: Experience bustling markets in towns, offering fresh produce, crafts, and local goods. Admire the charming streetscapes with ancient buildings and historic churches.

  • Independent shops and cosy pubs: Explore unique boutiques, galleries, and artisanal stores offering handmade crafts, antiques, and local specialities. Relax in traditional pubs or quaint cafes, indulging in local fare and soaking up the atmosphere.

  • Scenic Walks: Wander through picturesque villages, with their idyllic settings and well-preserved historical charm. For walkers, enjoy panoramic walks in the countryside and along the Ridgeway.

  • North Wessex Downs: Explore the North Wessex Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty for its sweeping landscapes, charming villages, and tranquil countryside, perfect for outdoor adventures and scenic exploration.

  • Visit Swindon: There are plenty of things to do in Swindon, with its blend of modern amenities, cultural attractions like the STEAM Museum, and its proximity to stunning countryside, offering a diverse experience for visitors.

  • Wiltshire's white horses: Wiltshire's white horses are ancient hill figures on chalk hillsides, formed by removing turf or chalk to reveal large-scale horse-shaped artworks, showcasing iconic stylised designs.

  • Salisbury: Explore Salisbury's timeless beauty, where the majestic Salisbury Cathedral, charming streets, and rich history converge to captivate visitors with its medieval allure.

  • Country homes and estates: Enjoy an array of beautiful country homes and estates on the route.

These are just a few of the many things you can enjoy on your road trip itinerary around Wiltshire county. Whether it's exploring historical landmarks, indulging in local cuisine, or simply soaking in the local atmosphere, Wiltshire's market towns and villages offer a delightful array of experiences. With its beautiful countryside, and variety of walks, a visit to Wiltshire is sure to have something to interest everyone.

Find out more about our self-drive road trip planner/itinerary for the Wonders of Wiltshire below!

Travel Guide: Wiltshire Road Trip

  • Save hours searching the internet using our well-researched inspiration and signposting to plan your perfect visit to the Wiltshire countryside driving route.

  • This Wiltshire road trip route planner and Wiltshire maps cover guides to 15 destinations

  • Find the best Wiltshire campsites, almost wild spots, pub stops and motorhome stopover spots from our Overnight Stays map.

  • The Wiltshire destination guide includes references and embedded links to over 50 attractions, experiences, and activities.

  • Plus, browse from a huge choice of bookable, local experiences and activities, by location, such as tours, boat trips, bike hire, and things to do in Northumberland.

  • Easily locate viewpoints, hidden gems, wild swim spots and more.

Guide images are for illustration purposes

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