Wiltshire, with its idyllic scenery and ancient monuments, has much more to see than the stereotypical tourist attractions. Whether you’re a tourist to the county for the first time or a resident looking for new things to see, there are a vast number of off-the-beaten-track things to do in Wiltshire. From ancient treasures to quirky things to do, here’s a guide on some of Wiltshire’s county town’s best-kept secrets.
Key Discoveries of Offbeat Attractions and Local Secrets Waiting to Be Explored
1. Visit the Wiltshire Museum
Located in Devizes, the Wiltshire Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the county’s history. Whereas everyone crowds around famous landmarks like Stonehenge, the museum remains off the beaten path. Visit here and find an incredible range of prehistoric artifacts right through to Roman times. It is a peaceful, educational stop that allows you to dive headlong into Wiltshire’s fascinating heritage.
Highlights:
- Bronze Age artefacts
- Roman mosaics and relics
- The Neolithic collection
2. Visit the Crofton Beam Engines
Experience something completely genuine at the Crofton Beam Engines, located close to Marlborough. These former steam engines, which were originally used to water the Kennet and Avon Canal, bring back memories of what things were like. You will be enchanted by watching and listening to them in operation. Full of nostalgia, an experience which is not to be found in Wiltshire anywhere else.
What You Can See:
- Heritage steam engines in full operation
- A chance to learn about early industrial engineering
- A peaceful walk along the canal
3. Uncover the Secret Gardens at Stourhead
Stourhead is renowned for its Palladian mansion, but the gardens are where the beauty lies. Measuring more than 1,000 acres, the landscape garden is an 18th-century masterpiece with temples, grottos, and a magical lake. During the spring and summer months, the secret gardens bloom with vibrant flowers, giving it an additional magical and mystical ambiance, and it becomes a place of enchantment to wander and appreciate nature.
Highlights of the Gardens:
- Ancient temples and grottos
- Seasonal hues in full bloom
- Secluded lake vistas
4. Wander Through the Enchanted Forest
Go to the dense forest near Westbury for a walk through a fairy-tale forest that is rarely explored by tourists. Known for its thick cover and historic trees, it’s a place that’s as if you were in a fairy tale. Trek through moss-laden paths, and you could even spot some wildlife such as deer or endangered birds along the way.
Why it’s Special:
- A sense of peace and solitude
- Perfect for wildlife lovers and photographers
- Concealed wildlife and scenery
5. Stare at the Wiltshire White Horses
Wiltshire has a series of large, prehistoric white chalk hill figures known as the “White Horses.” While many visitors are familiar with the Westbury White Horse, others are scattered throughout the county. See these unique landmarks while walking around the countryside on a new interpretation of this ancient Wiltshire tradition.
Best Spots to Witness the White Horses:
- Westbury White Horse
- Cherhill White Horse
- Alton Barnes White Horse
6. Stargazing at the Wiltshire Dark Skies
If you’re looking for a celestial experience, Wiltshire offers some of the best stargazing spots in the country. Areas like Savernake Forest and Salisbury Plain are renowned for their dark skies, perfect for viewing the stars, planets, and meteor showers. These locations are especially peaceful in the late evening, offering an unforgettable night under the stars.
Stargazing Tips:
- Best viewed from the countryside, away from city lights
- Check for seasonal meteor showers.
- Savernake Forest and Salisbury Plain offer some of the most unobstructed skies.
Final Thoughts
Wiltshire is full of unexpected treasures, from quirky museums to awe-inspiring landscapes. By venturing beyond the well-known tourist attractions, you’ll uncover hidden gems that make the county’s county town an even more remarkable place to visit. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or just looking for a quiet retreat, there are plenty of things to do in Wiltshire that will leave a lasting impression.
