Westbury in West Wiltshire – see huge white horses and more
Westbury is a town in West Wiltshire, about 18 miles south east of Bath that centres around its historic market. It has also been known as Westbury-under-the-Plain as it lies under the north-western hills of Salisbury Plain.
The town is notable for its church. Built in the 14th century, All Saints’ Church has the third heaviest ring of bells in the world. It also holds a 16th century clock, built by a local blacksmith, and an Erasmus bible.
The most famous feature in Westbury is the White Horse which may date back as far as 878AD although there is no hard evidence yet to suggest that it is any older than 1720. It is however, the oldest and largest of the Wiltshire horses.
The horse is cut into the Westbury hills below Bratton Camp hill fort. It can be seen from the B3098 viewpoint. You can get up to the horse itself but the paths are steep and not very wide either. If you do decide to take the walk up, you will be rewarded with fantastic views over the countryside below.
The current horse is a different design from the original. In 1778, G. Gee had the image re-cut in the chalk to create a better likeness to a real horse. In 1873, that horse was in need or restoration due to erosion and it is the shape that was created during this period that can be seen today.
Although the original horse had a chalk surface, the current horse has a concrete one that has been painted white. This is because maintenance costs were high and concrete is easier to look after.
The town is perfect for walkers and cyclists as the chalk downland is lovely. Wild flowers brighten up the hills in the summer and hang-gliders can be seen regularly taking advantage of the thermals.
Westbury is well situated for access to Bath, Bristol and Salisbury with a direct train service to these cities. It is a great countryside stop off if you are heading on to these destinations.
For Westbury Wiltshire, head to West Wilts.
foreclosure.pageonewithgary.com
Tags: chalk downland, salisbury plain, west wilts, west wiltshire