Attractions and Places To See around Devizes - Top 20

Devizes is surrounded by beautiful natural features. A major highlight is the Kennet and Avon Canal, particularly the impressive Caen Hill Locks, an engineering marvel with 29 locks offering scenic walks and wildlife spotting. You can also visit the striking Cherhill White Horse, a chalk hill figure offering breathtaking views. Other natural areas include Roundway Down and Oliver's Castle for walking and views, Drew's Pond Woods Nature Reserve with footpaths and a lake, and Morgan's Hill, a nature reserve known for orchids and butterflies.

Devizes boasts a rich history. The town's heart is the historic Market Place, which hosts a traditional market every Thursday. You can admire the 19th-century Devizes Market Cross with its unique local tales. The 12th-century St. John's Church showcases beautiful Norman architecture. For a deeper dive into the region's past, the Wiltshire Museum houses an extensive collection of Bronze Age artifacts, including items from Stonehenge and Avebury. The Wansdyke Path also offers a journey through an early medieval defensive earthwork.

Yes, Devizes offers several family-friendly options. The Caen Hill Locks on the Kennet and Avon Canal are great for a family stroll, with plenty of space to explore and watch boats. Drew's Pond Woods Nature Reserve provides footpaths, picnic facilities, and a playground. The central open space known as The Green also features a modern playground and the historic Crammer Pond. For a fun activity, the Sleight Valley Golf Driving Range includes a crazy golf course.

For stunning panoramic views, head to Walkers Hill, which offers exceptional vistas of the Vale of Pewsey and surrounding downland. The Cherhill White Horse also provides breathtaking views over the picturesque countryside. Additionally, Roundway Down and Oliver's Castle are known for their fantastic walking opportunities with wide-ranging views of the Wiltshire landscape.

The area around Devizes is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. You can enjoy scenic walks along the Kennet and Avon Canal, especially around the Caen Hill Locks. There are numerous hiking opportunities, including easy routes like the "Caen Hill Locks & Diamond Jubilee Wood loop from Devizes" or the "Devizes Wharf – Caen Hill Café loop from Devizes." For cycling, explore routes like the "Caen Hill Locks – Canal Towpath Cycle Route loop from Devizes" or the "The King's Arms All Cannings – Kennet and Avon Canal Towpath loop from Devizes." You can find more details on these routes in the easy hikes around Devizes guide and the cycling around Devizes guide.

Yes, Devizes is home to a couple of notable museums. The Wiltshire Museum is renowned for its extensive collection of Bronze Age artifacts, including items from Stonehenge and Avebury, and covers the town's history from prehistoric times. The Kennet and Avon Canal Museum, located at the Wharf, offers insights into the history and operation of the canal through interactive displays and historic artifacts.

Absolutely! The historic Wadworth Brewery, established in 1875, offers tours where you can learn about the brewing process and see their collection of hand-painted pub signs. It's also one of the few breweries that still uses Shire horses for local deliveries, adding to its traditional charm.

The Kennet and Avon Canal is a central feature of Devizes, offering scenic beauty and a link to the town's industrial past. It provides opportunities for walks, boat trips, and is home to the impressive Caen Hill Locks, a significant engineering feat. The canal's history and operation are further explored at the Kennet and Avon Canal Museum.

Devizes has its share of intriguing local lore. The small pond known as The Crammer is famously associated with the legend that gave Wiltshire its "Moonraker" nickname. Additionally, the Devizes Market Cross features plaques that recount unique local tales, offering a glimpse into the town's quirky history.

The best time to visit Devizes largely depends on your interests. Spring and summer (April to September) are ideal for enjoying outdoor activities like walking and cycling along the Kennet and Avon Canal or exploring the various nature reserves, as the weather is generally milder and the landscape is vibrant. These months also host local events like the Devizes International Street Festival and the Devizes Food and Drink Festival. Autumn offers beautiful foliage, while winter can be quieter but still suitable for historical and indoor attractions.

Beyond the main attractions, Devizes offers some delightful hidden gems. Hillworth Park is a beautifully transformed park featuring a Georgian summer house, reflective pool, gardens, aviary, and a café. For a unique dining experience with a view, consider Rowdey Cow Farm Cafe and Parlour, which offers local produce and homemade ice cream overlooking the Wiltshire countryside.