Wiltshire Areas (2)

Swindon

Wiltshire

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About - Wiltshire

Here are some key facts about Wiltshire, a county in the southwest of England:

1. Location: Wiltshire is located in the South West region of England. It is bordered by six other counties: Dorset, Somerset, Hampshire, Gloucestershire, Oxfordshire, and Berkshire.

2. County Town: The county town of Wiltshire is Trowbridge. However, Salisbury is often considered the cultural and historical center of the county.

3. Salisbury Plain: Much of central and eastern Wiltshire is dominated by Salisbury Plain, a vast chalk plateau famous for its prehistoric monuments, including Stonehenge, Avebury, and Silbury Hill.

4. Stonehenge: Perhaps the most famous landmark in Wiltshire, Stonehenge is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most iconic prehistoric monuments in the world. It dates back to around 3000 BC.

5. Avebury: Another significant prehistoric site, Avebury is home to the largest stone circle in Europe. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and attracts visitors interested in ancient history and archaeology.

6. Salisbury Cathedral: Built in the 13th century, Salisbury Cathedral is an architectural masterpiece and home to the best-preserved of the four surviving original copies of the Magna Carta.

7. Military Presence: Wiltshire has a significant military presence, particularly on Salisbury Plain, where the British Army conducts training exercises. The county is home to numerous military bases, including RAF Lyneham and the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl).

8. Wiltshire White Horses: The county is known for its white horse hill figures, which are large chalk hillside carvings depicting horses. The Uffington White Horse, though not in Wiltshire, is the oldest and most famous. Wiltshire's horses include those at Westbury, Cherhill, and Marlborough.

9. Crop Circles: Wiltshire has been a hotspot for the formation of crop circles, mysterious patterns that appear in fields, particularly in the summer months. While many are believed to be the result of human activity, their origins remain a subject of debate and intrigue.

10. Landscape: Wiltshire boasts diverse landscapes, including rolling chalk downs, picturesque valleys, and ancient woodlands. The River Avon flows through the county, adding to its natural beauty.

11. Market Towns: Wiltshire is dotted with charming market towns, each with its own unique character and history. These include Marlborough, Devizes, Bradford-on-Avon, and Corsham, among others.

12. Literary Connections: Wiltshire has inspired many writers and artists over the years. Notable literary figures with connections to the county include Thomas Hardy, who set parts of his novel "Tess of the d'Urbervilles" in the Wiltshire countryside, and Jane Austen, who lived in Bath but visited Wiltshire frequently.

These facts provide just a glimpse into the rich history, natural beauty, and cultural significance of Wiltshire.

Wiltshire Map