Top 8 Natural Monuments around Dilton Marsh
Best natural monuments around Dilton Marsh include a variety of natural features and protected areas. The region is characterized by its peaceful countryside and scenic walking trails, offering diverse opportunities for outdoor recreation. While not formally designated as 'natural monuments' in the UK, these sites hold scientific and scenic importance, often protected as Sites of Special Scientific Interest or National Nature Reserves. Visitors can explore chalk downlands, historical hillforts, and viewpoints that showcase the local environment.
Best natural monuments around Dilton Marsh
- The most popular natural monuments is Bratton Camp and Long Barrow, a viewpoint that offers extraordinary vistas from its earthen ramparts. This site includes a long barrow estimated to be around 5,000 years old, situated on a ridge above the Westbury White Horse.
- Another must-see spot is Westbury White Horse and Bratton Camp, a historical site and natural monument. This area features an Iron Age hillfort and the iconic chalk hill figure, providing outstanding views and a rich history.
- Visitors also love Cley Hill, a family-friendly viewpoint. This chalk downland is managed by the National Trust for its plants and insects, offering steep-sided trails and panoramic views of Somerset and Wiltshire.
- Dilton Marsh is known for its historical sites, viewpoints, and chalk downlands. The area offers a variety of natural monuments to see and explore, including ancient hillforts, iconic chalk figures, and protected natural habitats.
- The natural monuments around Dilton Marsh are appreciated by the komoot community, with 39 upvotes and 7 photos shared across the highlights.
Last updated: October 17, 2026
Westbury White Horse
Highlight • Natural Monument
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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Cley Hill
Highlight • Viewpoint
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Bratton Camp and Long Barrow
Highlight • Viewpoint
The camp sits just on the ridge between Westbury and Bratton, and immediately above the Westbury White Horse. There's a long barrow within the castle's fortifications estimated to be around 5,000 years old.
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Middle Hill
Highlight • Historical Site
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View of Westbury White Horse from Lower Westbury Road
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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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Easy running with lovely views up to the escarpment and white horse.
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Lovely wide gravel bridleway with somewhat distracting views of the white horse and the Wilts lowlands that I had one of my worst crashes on. Deceptively smooth chunky gravel surface good for medium gravel or touring tyres. Nothing really wrong with the path excepting a few potholes and larger stones, but those potholes can make panniers bounce up and, if unsecured, said panniers can bounce into the path of one's front wheel tossing the obliviously joyful bike tourist over their handlebars and into said hard chunky gravel. One can rag their fully loaded bike down as many unsuitable trails as they please, as long as the load is secure. edit; the potholes are much bigger now.
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There are over 1,200 hillforts in England, most of which occupy fantastic viewpoints and Bratton Camp hillfort is no different. In fact, it has a truly extraordinary vistas from its earthen ramparts. The camp sits just on the ridge between Westbury and Bratton, and immediately above the Westbury White Horse. There's a long barrow within the castle's fortifications estimated to be around 5,000 years old.
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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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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the most popular natural monuments to visit near Dilton Marsh?
Among the most popular natural monuments, visitors frequently enjoy Bratton Camp and Long Barrow, which offers extraordinary vistas from its ancient earthen ramparts. Another highly regarded spot is Westbury White Horse and Bratton Camp, known for its iconic chalk figure and Iron Age hillfort. Cley Hill is also a favorite, offering panoramic views and managed for its diverse plant and insect life.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see around Dilton Marsh?
The area around Dilton Marsh is characterized by its peaceful countryside, chalk downlands, and scenic walking trails. You'll encounter impressive viewpoints, ancient hillforts, and iconic chalk figures like the Westbury White Horse. These sites often feature diverse habitats, including grasslands rich in wildlife, managed by organizations like the National Trust for their ecological value.
Are there any historical sites among the natural monuments near Dilton Marsh?
Yes, many of the natural monuments in the area have significant historical importance. For example, Westbury White Horse and Bratton Camp features an Iron Age hillfort and a Neolithic long barrow dating back 5,000 years. Middle Hill also hosts an ancient bowl barrow atop its conical chalk form, offering a glimpse into the region's past.
Are there family-friendly natural monuments around Dilton Marsh?
Absolutely! Cley Hill is a great option for families, offering a short walk with amazing views. The View of Westbury White Horse from Lower Westbury Road is also considered family-friendly, providing easy access and lovely views of the iconic chalk figure.
What are the best times to visit the natural monuments around Dilton Marsh?
The natural monuments are beautiful year-round, but spring and summer offer the best conditions for enjoying the wildlife and views. Autumn brings vibrant colors, though paths can be muddy after rain. While winter visits are possible, be prepared for colder temperatures and potentially slippery trails. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.
Where can I find walking or hiking routes near these natural monuments?
There are numerous walking and hiking routes that incorporate these natural monuments. You can explore various trails, including loops around the Westbury White Horse and Bratton Camp. For detailed routes and options, check out the Hiking around Dilton Marsh guide, which offers routes of varying difficulties.
Are there cycling or mountain biking trails near the natural monuments?
Yes, the area offers excellent opportunities for cycling and mountain biking. Many trails pass by or offer views of the natural monuments. For specific routes, including those around the Westbury White Horse and other scenic spots, refer to the MTB Trails around Dilton Marsh guide.
What do visitors enjoy most about the natural monuments around Dilton Marsh?
Visitors consistently praise the outstanding views and panoramic vistas from sites like Westbury White Horse and Bratton Camp and Bratton Camp and Long Barrow. The rich history, diverse wildlife, and the peaceful, natural surroundings are also frequently highlighted as major attractions.
Are the natural monuments around Dilton Marsh dog-friendly?
Generally, the natural monuments and surrounding trails are dog-friendly, making them ideal for walks with your canine companion. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs on a lead, especially in areas with livestock or protected wildlife, and to follow the Countryside Code.
Are there any running trails that include these natural monuments?
Yes, you can find several running trails that take you through the scenic landscapes surrounding the natural monuments. Routes vary in distance and difficulty, offering options for different fitness levels. Explore the Running Trails around Dilton Marsh guide for detailed information.
What is the Kennet and Avon Canal Towpath, and is it near Dilton Marsh?
The Kennet and Avon Canal Towpath, particularly the section from Dundas Aqueduct to Avoncliff, offers a tranquil natural experience with abundant wildlife and stunning scenery. While not directly in Dilton Marsh, it's a notable natural feature in the wider vicinity, ideal for cycling and hiking, and easily accessible for a day trip.
What is Southwick Country Park and what can I see there?
Southwick Country Park, located near Trowbridge, is a nature reserve offering a diverse mix of wetland, woodland, and grassland habitats. It's home to a variety of wildlife, including rare reptiles like adders and grass snakes. The park provides both surfaced paths and off-road trails, making it a great spot for nature observation and walks for all fitness levels.
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