The 5 Most Amazing Peaks around Dilton Marsh
Best mountain peaks around Dilton Marsh provide access to elevated points and scenic walks. The region, though not characterized by high mountains, features significant elevated areas such as the Bratton Downs, offering panoramic views over the Wiltshire landscape. These locations provide rewarding experiences for those seeking elevation gains and natural beauty. Visitors can explore a variety of hiking trails and historical landmarks in the surrounding area.
Best mountain peaks around Dilton Marsh
- The most popular mountain peaks is Cley Hill…
Last updated: June 29, 2026
Westbury White Horse
Highlight • Natural Monument
Today the hill's most defining feature is the striking …
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Cley Hill
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Middle Hill
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Upton Cow Down
Highlight • Trail
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Cotley Hill
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Tips from the Community
Cley Hill stands proud of the surrounding flatlands at 244 m high. There is a trig point, awesome views and steep sided trails to run. It's an important area of chalk downland managed by the National Trust for the plants and insects which live here. Cley Hill is also famous for UFO sightings and crop circles, so keep an eye out :-)
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The oldest of the Wiltshire white horses this was originally cut in 1772 and restored in 1778. There was evidence of an older horse here facing the other way, but no strong evidence suggests how old that was. In 1872/1873 the horse was considered to be losing its shape, it was re cut and edging stones added. In 1957 the horse was concreted to preserve it. For the runner the trails around the top of the horse are great fun and the 33-mile Imber trail also passes here. There are nice loops from the car park above the horse or from nearby Westbury.
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Upton Cow Down is a 16.4 hectare biological Site of Special Scientific Interest on the western edge of Salisbury Plain and overlooking the village of Upton Scudamore. The down is an area of chalk grassland, covered in wildflowers and pollinators over the summer months.
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A rooty climb leading to open fields going through some trees to the top. Great downhill and slightly less fun going up!
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Westbury White Horse was originally cut in the late 1600s and is the oldest white horse in Wiltshire. From this spot, you are afforded lovely views.
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Middle Hill, nicknamed locally as ‘piggy in the middle’, is a conical chalk hill that stands between Battlesbury Hill to the northwest and Scratchbury to the southeast. This row of hills is on the southwestern edge of Salisbury Plain overlooks the Wylye valley. Atop the hill you find an ancient and sizable bowl barrow.
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Bratton Camp was originally an Iron Age hill fort built over 2,000 years ago to defend the settlement from its enemies. Today the hill's most defining feature is the striking white horse cut into its slopes. Records suggest that the horse was made at the end of the 17th century to commemorate the Battle of Ethandun. Despite its turbulent past, Bratton Camp is now a relaxing place to take a stroll. The chalk grassland is teeming with wildlife and insects. Look out for the rare Adonis Blue butterfly which can be found here. You can visit any time during daylight hours. Entrance is free.
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Great short walk for all the family. Amazing views of Somerset and Wiltshire.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular elevated points to visit around Dilton Marsh?
Visitors frequently enjoy Cley Hill, which offers amazing views of Somerset and Wiltshire from its 244m summit. Another popular spot is Middle Hill, a historical site with an ancient bowl barrow atop, overlooking the Wylye valley. Upton Cow Down is also highly rated for its chalk grassland and wildflowers.
Are there family-friendly walks among the elevated points near Dilton Marsh?
Yes, Cley Hill is noted as a great short walk for all the family, offering stunning views and interesting chalk downland to explore.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see on these elevated walks?
The area is rich in natural beauty. You'll find extensive chalk downland, such as at Cley Hill and Upton Cow Down. During summer months, these chalk grasslands are covered in wildflowers and attract numerous pollinators. The region also offers panoramic views over the Wiltshire landscape.
Are there any historical sites among the elevated points near Dilton Marsh?
Absolutely. Middle Hill is a significant historical site featuring an ancient and sizable bowl barrow at its summit. Additionally, Cley Hill is considered an important historical site and is even known for local folklore about UFO sightings and crop circles.
What are the best places for panoramic views around Dilton Marsh?
For breathtaking panoramic views, head to Cley Hill, which provides extensive vistas of Somerset and Wiltshire. The area around the Westbury White Horse, though not a highlight in this guide, is also renowned for its impressive views over the Wiltshire landscape.
What outdoor activities can I do near these elevated points?
Beyond exploring the elevated points themselves, the region offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, including moderate loops around the Westbury White Horse. There are also extensive options for road cycling and gravel biking routes that pass by scenic spots and offer views of landmarks like the Westbury White Horse.
Are there specific hiking trails near the elevated points around Dilton Marsh?
Yes, there are several hiking trails. You can explore loops around the Westbury White Horse, including a 15km moderate loop and shorter routes like the 'Chalky Steps – View of Westbury loop'. For more options, check out the Hiking around Dilton Marsh guide.
What is the difficulty level of the walks to these elevated points?
Most of the highlighted elevated points, such as Cley Hill, Middle Hill, and Cotley Hill, are categorized as intermediate. Upton Cow Down also offers some challenging sections, providing options for various fitness levels.
What makes <a href="https://www.komoot.com/highlight/4436049" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Cotley Hill</a> a unique experience?
Cotley Hill offers a distinctive experience with its rooty climb leading through trees to open fields at the top. It's known for a great downhill section, though the ascent can be quite a workout.
What do visitors appreciate most about the elevated points near Dilton Marsh?
Visitors particularly enjoy the amazing views of Somerset and Wiltshire from spots like Cley Hill. The rich natural environment, especially the chalk grasslands with wildflowers and pollinators at Upton Cow Down, is also highly appreciated. The blend of natural beauty, panoramic vistas, and accessible outdoor activity makes these locations well worth exploring.
Can I find trails with significant elevation gain in the area?
While Dilton Marsh itself is low-lying, the surrounding elevated points offer rewarding experiences with significant elevation gains. For example, trails around the Westbury White Horse can involve up to 1,000 feet of elevation gain, providing a good workout and impressive views.
Are there any specific recommendations for visiting during certain seasons?
The chalk grasslands, such as those at Upton Cow Down, are particularly vibrant during the summer months when they are covered in wildflowers and attract numerous pollinators. The Westbury White Horse area can also be a good spot for observing murmurating starlings in autumn.
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