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Avebury

Top 20 Natural Monuments around Avebury

Best natural monuments around Avebury include a collection of Neolithic and Bronze Age monuments, many integrated with the landscape. This UNESCO World Heritage Site in Wiltshire, England, features ancient structures built from locally sourced sarsen stones. The area offers a glimpse into prehistoric Britain, showcasing monumental human endeavors within a natural setting.

Best natural monuments around Avebury

  • The most popular natural monuments is Avebury Stone Circle, a prehistoric stone circle that encircles part of Avebury village. Visitors can walk…

Last updated: May 3, 2026

Avebury Stone Circle

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Avebury is an extraordinary place in the North Wiltshire & Wessex Downs AONB. One of many Neolithic sites in the area, this stone circle is large enough to encircle part …

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Silbury Hill

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Silbury Hill is the largest artificial mound in Europe. It is similar in height and volume to the Egyptian pyramids. Whilst the hill is a bit of a mystery to …

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West Kennet Long Barrow

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This is a Neolithic burial chamber that is older than Stonehenge. You can go inside a number of the chambers to view them. It is dark, though - so pack a torch to see the surrounding rocks.

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Cherhill White Horse

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The Cherhill White Horse is the second oldest in Wiltshire, created two years later than the horse at Westbury, which was cut in 1778. From this spot above the horse, you get breathtaking views over the picturesque countryside.

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Devil's Den Dolmen

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Named after the Devil, who is said to drink water from the rocky hollows of the massive capstone, the Devil's Den is a dolmen burial chamber and part of a …

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MCW73
November 27, 2025, Devil's Den Dolmen

Devil's Den stone monument is a Neolithic dolmen (burial chamber) located in Wiltshire, near Marlborough, not Sturminster Newton. The structure features a massive 17-ton capstone resting on two upright sarsen stones. Local folklore claims that if water is poured into the hollows on the capstone, the Devil himself will come during the night to drink it. It was largely reconstructed in 1921 after the chamber collapsed.

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hiking poles might help up hill

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MCW73
March 7, 2025, Silbury Hill

Sidbury Hill, or Sidbury Camp, is the site of an Iron Age bivallate hillfort on the eastern edge of Salisbury Plain in Wiltshire, England. The site is sub-triangular in shape, approximately 17 acres in area, and is constructed on the site of a Neolithic settlement. The hill offers excellent defensive slopes on all sides, which have been supplemented by the double ditch and rampart earthworks. The settlement and hillfort were partially excavated in the 19th century and the 1950s; there were finds of pottery and other artefacts. A Neolithic settlement site was discovered during the excavation in the 1950s, being of a section of the south-east rampart of the hillfort. A number of flint flakes and tools were recovered. The site is a scheduled national monument. Trees planted in the 1960s were removed from 2002 and the area was allowed to revert to the natural chalk downland. Access to the site is difficult as it is on, or near, Ministry of Defence land, and there are many tank tracks and occasional artillery firing in the area. There are also numerous ditches, barrows, trackways, field systems, and tumuli in the area. Due to erosion issues climbing on the barrow is now forbidden. Such a shame, but understandable.

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A well preserved bell barrow, the mound of which measures 22m in diameter and stands up to 2.8m high. The mound is surrounded by a berm up to 5m in diameter and a ditch 0.7m deep and up to 6.2m wide. One of these two bell barrows produced a sherd of Bronze Age pottery and a fragment of a polished greenstone axe, both found by Owen Meyrick. A bell barrow, the mound of which measures 24m in diameter and stands 2.7m high. The berm and ditch which surround this barrow have been levelled by cultivation on three sides but survive as buried features on the fourth. From measurements on the western side it can be seen that the berm is c.3m wide and that the ditch is c.5m wide.

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Who wouldn't want to walk into a neolithic burial chamber? anybody? no? didn't think so!!! It was amazing!!! The monument includes six prominent Bronze Age round barrows which form part of a larger round barrow cemetery north-east of West Kennett Farm and west of the Ridgeway track on Overton Hill. This is the site of a round barrow which, despite being ploughed level, will contain archaeological information; the old ground surface beneath the mound and the surrounding quarry ditch, from which material was quarried during construction of the monument, will survive as buried features. The area of the mound has a diameter of 33m; the surrounding ditch is c.2m wide. A bowl barrow, the mound of which measures 41.5m in diameter and stands up to 1.2m high. The mound is surrounded by a ditch which has become infilled over the years but which survives as a buried feature c.3m wide. This barrow has been partially excavated on two occasions, in 1857 by Thurnham and again in 1882 by W & H Cunnington. The primary cremation burial was not located but two secondary cremations were recovered. One was located north- west of the centre of the mound and was accompanied by a flint scraper and a serrated flint flake; the other was situated east of the centre and contained pottery sherds of two vessels, a beaker and an urn, as well as a piece of antler and several bone pins. A bowl barrow, the mound of which measures 42m in diameter and stands up to 0.7m high. The barrow has been partially excavated on two occasions, in 1857 by Thurnham and in 1882 by Ponting. These revealed that the barrow mound contained a crouched skeleton in a grave partly lined and roofed with sarsens. This was covered by a sarsen cairn, itself ringed by a double circle of sarsen stones c.1m outside the edge of the cairn. There was no evidence of a ditch around this barrow. Other finds included a later crouched skeleton covered with sarsen stones, the skeleton of a child, three large urns full of burnt bones and the perforated head of a bone pin. A well preserved bell barrow, the mound of which measures 26m in diameter and stands up to 3m high. The mound is surrounded by a gently sloping berm or platform c.3m wide and a ditch 0.5m deep and up to 6.4m wide.

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MCW73
February 7, 2025, Devil's Den Dolmen

In a field on Fyfield Down, 1 mile east of Marlborough, Wiltshire, stands the prehistoric burial chamber known as The Devil’s Den or Clatford Bottom Stone, a Neolithic monument from 5,000 years ago that is also known as a Dolmen (stone table). Get up here on a clear day, nice and early, and you'll witness the most amazing sunrise.

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Mystical place.

Translated by Google

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Got to be honest Farid mate this has given me the biggest laugh ever on Kamoot. Not like it's going to be there the next time!!!

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are some unique natural features to see around Avebury?

The Avebury area is renowned for its sarsen stones, a hard grey sandstone sourced locally, which form the basis of many of its ancient structures. You can observe these unique geological attributes, such as 'peeling' surfaces and 'silica glaze,' at sites like the Avebury Stone Circle. Additionally, the landscape features the massive artificial mound of Silbury Hill, which, despite being man-made, has become an iconic natural landmark due to its scale and enduring presence.

Are there family-friendly natural monuments to visit in the Avebury area?

Yes, many of the natural monuments around Avebury are family-friendly. The Avebury Stone Circle is particularly popular, as visitors can walk freely among the enormous stones, fostering an intimate connection with these ancient structures. The open fields and gentle terrain make it suitable for families to explore together.

What kind of outdoor activities can I do near Avebury's natural monuments?

The area around Avebury's natural monuments offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, and running on numerous trails. For hiking, consider routes like 'The Archaeology Trail & the Ridgeway loop' or the 'Silbury Hill – West Kennet Long Barrow loop'. Mountain biking enthusiasts can explore 'Ridgeway & St Alfred's Way loop'. For more details on routes, you can check the Hiking around Avebury guide.

Are there specific hiking trails that explore the natural monuments around Avebury?

Absolutely. Several trails are designed to take you through the heart of Avebury's prehistoric landscape. Popular options include the 'Silbury Hill – West Kennet Long Barrow loop from Avebury Stone Circle' and the 'Avebury Stone Circle – West Kennet Avenue loop'. These routes allow you to experience the interconnectedness of sites like Silbury Hill, West Kennet Long Barrow, and the Avebury Stone Circle. You can find more hiking options in the Hiking around Avebury guide.

How long should I plan for a visit to the natural monuments around Avebury?

To fully appreciate the main natural monuments, including the Avebury Stone Circle, Silbury Hill, and West Kennet Long Barrow, you should plan for at least half a day, if not a full day. Many visitors enjoy taking their time to walk between the sites, which are connected by ancient avenues and footpaths.

What is the best time of year to visit the natural monuments in Avebury?

The natural monuments around Avebury can be visited year-round. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for walking and exploring the open landscape. Autumn provides beautiful scenery with changing foliage. Winter visits can be atmospheric, especially for quieter walks, but be prepared for potentially muddy fields and colder temperatures. Good footwear is recommended regardless of the season.

Can I bring my dog to the natural monuments around Avebury?

Yes, the Avebury landscape is generally dog-friendly. You can walk your dog on leads around the Avebury Stone Circle and along many of the public footpaths connecting the various monuments. Always ensure your dog is under control, especially around livestock, and clean up after them.

Where can I find parking when visiting the natural monuments in Avebury?

Parking is available in and around Avebury village. There is a National Trust car park near the Avebury Stone Circle. For other sites like West Kennet Long Barrow, there are often small lay-bys or designated parking areas nearby, requiring a short walk to the monument.

What historical insights do the natural monuments around Avebury offer?

The natural monuments around Avebury offer profound insights into prehistoric Britain. Sites like the West Kennet Long Barrow, a Neolithic burial chamber older than Stonehenge, provide a direct glimpse into the spiritual beliefs and burial practices of ancient inhabitants. The entire complex, including the Avebury Stone Circle and Silbury Hill, showcases the remarkable engineering capabilities and ceremonial landscape planning of Neolithic people.

Are there any less-known or hidden natural attractions near Avebury worth exploring?

Beyond the main sites, the wider Avebury landscape holds several intriguing natural monuments. The Devil's Den Dolmen, a neolithic passage grave with a massive capstone, offers a unique historical experience. Another notable site is the Cherhill White Horse, a hill figure carved into the chalk hillside, providing breathtaking views over the picturesque countryside.

What makes the Avebury Stone Circle a 'natural monument'?

The Avebury Stone Circle is considered a 'natural monument' because, while human-constructed, it is deeply integrated with the natural landscape and uses locally sourced sarsen stones. These enormous stones, some weighing up to 100 tonnes, are natural geological features that have been arranged to create a monumental and enduring presence within the natural environment, blending human endeavor with natural materials.

What should I wear when visiting the natural monuments around Avebury?

Given the open, often rural setting, comfortable walking shoes or boots are highly recommended, especially as fields can be muddy. Dress in layers to adapt to changing weather conditions. A waterproof jacket is advisable, as is sun protection during warmer months. For winter visits, warm clothing, hats, and gloves are essential.

Are there pubs or cafes near the natural monuments in Avebury?

Yes, the village of Avebury, which is encircled by the Avebury Stone Circle, has pubs and cafes where you can find refreshments and meals. These establishments offer convenient options for visitors looking to relax and refuel after exploring the monuments.

How can I reach the natural monuments around Avebury using public transport?

Avebury is accessible by public transport, though options may be limited depending on your starting point. Local bus services connect Avebury with nearby towns like Marlborough and Swindon, which have train stations. It's advisable to check current bus schedules and routes in advance, especially for connections to the more remote monuments.

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Extend your search for the best caves by checking out these guides of the top ones around Avebury:

DevonDorsetWinscombe & SandfordSomersetBanwellBurringtonChurchillCornwallLoxtonPuxtonWringtonBlagdonGloucestershireCongresburyUbleyCompton MartinWest HarptreeEast HarptreeSt. EndellionButcombeSancreedNempnett ThrubwellChew StokeWinfordSt. TeathOtterhamLesnewthDavidstowForrabury And MinsterSt. KewTintagelAdventCamelfordSt. BuryanPaulSt GennysSt. JustTrevalgaSt. JuliotMadronSt. BreockSt. MerrynSt. Minver LowlandsSt. ErvanSt. IsseyPadstowSennenHinton BlewettWiltshireStowey-SuttonBackwellChew MagnaOgbourne St. AndrewWest OvertonPreshuteWinterbourne MonktonEast KennettFyfieldWarbstowSt. LevanSt. Minver HighlandsAldbourneCurySt KeverneMawgan-In-MeneagePenzanceGrade-RuanSt. IvesMullionSavernakeCherhillBerwick BassettMarlboroughChiseldonEgloshayleHilmartonSt. BrewardWinterbourne BassettMichaelstowCompton DandoAltonStanton St BernardCompton BassettMildenhallAll CanningsLudgvanWroughtonClyffe PypardBroad HintonBroad TownOgbourne St. GeorgeKeynshamMawgan-In-PydarWhitchurchZennorTowednackBishops CanningsBarrow GurneySt. EvalMorvahMilton LilbourneWilcotPewseyHuishCorstonMarksburyKelstonSt. Martin-In-MeneageCrowanHanham AbbotsDundryHanhamCalne WithoutHayleBishopstoneWadebridgeSaltfordTreneglosWanboroughLiddingtonBath and North East SomersetBittonSt. Columb MajorNewton St LoeWootton RiversWoodboroughHeddingtonLong AshtonEtchilhamptonDevizesPortreathGwinear-GwithianSt. ErthSt. AgnesSt. NeotRamsburyNorton MalrewardOldlandFarmboroughManningfordNorth HillSt. CleerWick And AbsonGunwalloePristonNorth StokePublowLydiard TregozeDoyntonCold AshtonPilning And Severn BeachPatneyMarazionStokeclimslandEnglishcombeCameleyMorwenstowLandewednackStoke GiffordWinterbourneCarn BreaIlloganBlislandAltarnunNewquayHigh LittletonFarrington GurneySouth MarstonHighworthAbbots LeighJacobstowCharlcombeWendronBeechingstokeRedruthBrockleyCharfieldLyneham And BradenstokeBreageStertFiltonHillMarshfieldUpavonRushallCalneSt. Austell BayAlmondsburyPill & Easton-In-GordanoWraxall And FailandBaydonMenheniotSt. IveSouth HillDownend and Bromley HeathRedlynchBathamptonBradford-On-AvonBathfordTimsburySt. EwePatchwayDyrham And HintonCamborneSistonSt. HilarySt. BlaiseLinkinhorneSt. MewanCarlyonCombe HayDunkerton and TunleyLewannickPoundstockLezantQuethiockSt CatherineFlax BourtonSwainswickBradley StokeBatheastonYattonAustWarlegganDobwalls And TrewidlandEastonNorth NewntonFreshfordLimpley StokeWinsleyStanton DrewWingfieldCallingtonChelwoodOldbury-Upon-SevernFrampton CotterellLiskeardCharltonCamertonSt. Michael'S Mount

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