Attractions and Places To See around Chilmark - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Chilmark offer a blend of historical sites, natural woodlands, and architectural marvels. This region features significant historical landmarks, including medieval castles and ancient forest trails. Visitors can explore diverse landscapes, from serene woodlands to sites with impressive architectural heritage. The area provides opportunities for historical exploration and enjoying the natural environment.
Best attractions and places to see around Chilmark
- The most popular attractions is Old Wardour Castle, a historical castle that was…
Last updated: July 6, 2026
Church of St Peter and St Paul, Heytesbury
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Old Wardour Castle
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Grovely Wood Forest Trail
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Philipps House in Dinton Park
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Fonthill Arch
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Tips from the Community
beautiful location by the old castle in the winter
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Definitely worth a visit beautiful ancient castle and amazing history
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The house you can see in the park is Philipps House. The house nestles in the steep wooded banks behind it and looks out over the expansive parkland. It’s separated from the park by a special deer fence called a ha-ha which allows uninterrupted views across the park and stops deer and cattle from into the garden. The house was designed by Jeffry Wyatville in a Georgian style with Greek-inspired columns supporting the large portico front. It was named Dinton House after the park for the Wyndham family. It was later renamed to Philipps House when it was sold to Bertram Philipps. In 2023 a 25-year lease of the house was conditionally sold for £2m. https://www.struttandparker.com/properties/st-marys-road-6
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One of the largest mixed woodlands in southern Wiltshire, situated on a chalk ridge above the River Wylye. It is recognised for its nature conservation importance through designation as a County Wildlife Site. Among the species found here is the Purple Emperor butterfly.
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he parish church of St. Peter and St. Paul was founded in the late 11th century. It was given to Salisbury Cathedral c.1115 by Henry I to form part of a living. The value of this church was soon increased by other gifts of property, and within a few years there were canons at Heytesbury. By c.1160 it was established as a collegiate church with a dean and four prebendaries, two each of priests and deacons. A collegiate church was effectively a 'mother church' with resident priests whose task it was to go out into the wider community as missionaries, with the aim of encouraging new 'daughter churches'. In the 13th century the holder of the deanery became, and remained, the Dean of Salisbury. The college at Heytesbury and its property belonged to him. Most parishes came under the jurisdiction of the Bishop of the Diocese, but Heytesbury belonged to the Dean and was therefore known as a peculiar. The Cathedrals Act of 1840 dissolved the college and abolished the prebends. The church itself is described by Pevsner as 'a large and impressive church, but an over-restored one'. The external view is dominated by its low, massive and square Norman tower in the centre. Most of the building dates from the late 12th, the 13th and the 15th centuries.
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"Southwest of the [Fonthill Bishop] village, an archway with two flanking lodges spans the road to Fonthill Gifford. This entrance to Fonthill Park was probably built c. 1756 to designs of John Vardy; long decorative walls, with urn finials, were added on both sides of the road c. 1860. The whole was designated as Grade I listed in 1966." Cit. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fonthill_Bishop
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On the site of an older house, Philipps House in Dinton Park is a neo-Grecian mansion built in the early 1800s. A grade II-listen property, the house is named for a subsequent owner, Bertram Philipps and is constructed from local Chilmark Stone. Once used by the YWCA as an artists retreat, you can now visit the park, which is under the management of the National Trust.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I visit around Chilmark?
Chilmark is rich in history. You can explore the ruins of Old Wardour Castle, a 14th-century castle with a turbulent past, or visit the Church of St Peter and St Paul, Heytesbury, a large and impressive church with Norman origins. Additionally, Grovely Wood Forest Trail features a Roman road and Iron Age hill forts.
Are there any notable architectural landmarks near Chilmark?
Yes, New Wardour Castle is a prominent architectural landmark. This Grade I-listed Palladian-style country house, built between 1769-76, is situated in idyllic parkland. While it is privately owned and not open to visitors, the Wessex Ridgeway trail passes by, allowing you to admire its fine architecture. Another interesting structure is the Fonthill Arch, a Grade I-listed archway with flanking lodges that spans the road to Fonthill Gifford.
What natural features and woodlands can I explore around Chilmark?
The area offers several natural attractions. Grovely Wood Forest Trail is one of the largest mixed woodlands in southern Wiltshire, recognized for its nature conservation importance. You can also find beautiful parkland surrounding Old Wardour Castle, overlooking a lake.
Are there family-friendly attractions in the Chilmark area?
Many attractions around Chilmark are suitable for families. Old Wardour Castle offers an engaging historical experience set in parkland. The Church of St Peter and St Paul, Heytesbury, provides a glimpse into medieval architecture. Additionally, Grovely Wood Forest Trail is a great place for family walks and nature exploration.
What outdoor activities can I do near these attractions?
The Chilmark area is excellent for outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for mountain biking, cycling, and hiking. For mountain biking, consider routes like the 'Maisie's Den – Grovely Wood Forest Trail loop from Dinton'. Cyclists might enjoy the 'Fonthill Bishop Arch – All Saints Church loop from Dinton'. Hikers have options such as the 'Fonthill Lake – Beckford Pub loop from Tisbury'. You can find more details on these and other routes in the MTB Trails around Chilmark, Cycling around Chilmark, and Hiking around Chilmark guides.
Are there good viewpoints or scenic spots around Chilmark?
Yes, the area offers several scenic spots. Old Wardour Castle provides great views over its parkland and a lake. While New Wardour Castle is private, its location in idyllic parkland offers impressive vistas from nearby trails. The Fonthill Arch also marks a picturesque segment leading through the park.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Chilmark?
Visitors appreciate the blend of historical significance and natural beauty. For instance, Old Wardour Castle is loved for its ruined charm set in lovely parkland overlooking a lake. The New Wardour Castle is admired for its impressive architecture and glorious parkland, even from a distance. The tranquility and historical depth of sites like the Church of St Peter and St Paul, Heytesbury, are also highly valued.
Are there any easy walking trails near Chilmark's attractions?
Yes, there are several easy walking options. For example, the 'Fonthill Lake – Beckford Pub loop from Tisbury' is an easy hiking route. Many sections of Hiking around Chilmark offer routes with varying difficulties, including easy ones suitable for a relaxed stroll.
Where can I find food or drinks near the attractions?
While specific cafes and pubs are not directly adjacent to every attraction, the Fonthill Arch has a little cafe just around the corner that serves breakfasts from 8:30 AM. For other attractions, you might find options in nearby villages like Tisbury or Fonthill Gifford, which are starting points for many routes.
What is the best time to visit attractions around Chilmark?
The best time to visit depends on your interests. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for exploring the parklands and woodlands, such as Grovely Wood Forest Trail, and enjoying outdoor activities. Historical sites like Old Wardour Castle are generally open year-round, but it's always a good idea to check their specific opening times before your visit, especially during off-peak seasons.
Are there any unique or lesser-known spots to discover?
Beyond the main highlights, exploring the extensive Grovely Wood Forest Trail can reveal hidden gems like ancient Roman roads and Iron Age hill forts. The historical significance of the Church of St Peter and St Paul, Heytesbury, as a former collegiate church with a 'peculiar' status, offers a unique historical insight. The Fonthill Arch also serves as a picturesque gateway to the historic Fonthill Park.
Most popular attractions around Chilmark
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