Top 5 Natural Monuments around Ampney Crucis
Best natural monuments around Ampney Crucis are found within the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, offering a tranquil natural setting. The village is characterized by the Ampney Brook, a tributary of the River Thames, which meanders through the area. This region provides opportunities for exploring rolling countryside, peaceful walking routes, and diverse natural features.
Best natural monuments around Ampney Crucis
- The most popular natural monuments is Cirencester Amphitheatre, a historical site that represents one of the largest Roman…
Last updated: July 1, 2026
Daglingworth Gravel Track
Highlight (Segment) • Natural
Tip by
Cirencester Amphitheatre
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Source of the River Thames
Highlight • River
Tip by
The Tallest Yew Hedge in the World
Highlight • Natural Monument
Tip by
Coronation Tree Carving, Cirencester Park
Highlight • Monument
Professional tree carver Andy O'Neill, of Bristol-based Wild Wood Carving, began work on the cedar in August and used a range of chainsaws to sculpt intricate designs into the tree.
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more natural monuments around Ampney Crucis.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
If You Have Never Seen the Source of River Thames, Probably worth a look.
0
0
A commemorative carving to celebrate King Charles III's coronation. Professional tree carver Andy O'Neill, of Bristol-based Wild Wood Carving, began work on the cedar in August and used a range of chainsaws to sculpt intricate designs into the tree. The wildlife-themed totem encompasses a variety of animals including butterflies, bees, owls, dormice, lady birds, a Roman snail and a Goshawk. On top is a bucks head to represent the park’s history.
0
0
This yew hedge planted in 1720 is 13.1m (43ft) high and surrounds the house belonging to Earl Bathurst.
1
0
Lovely gravel track connecting Welsh Way to Daglingworth via Quarry
0
0
park at the end of the hike. start of hike missed but is easy to find from top of railway road. We came back via road as access that isn't recorded has a very high turnstile and so not as accessible as the rest of the walk
2
1
Passes Daglingworth Quarry. Hanson Aggregates works Daglingworth Quarry, extracting limestone aggregate for road building, ornamental driveway stone and dust for brick making. Extraction of stone from the site is believed to have started in 1905, since when it has been in almost continuous use. The planning permission for the quarry expires in 2042 and progressive restoration is currently being undertaken. A wide variety of fossils are known from the Daglingworth Quarry. Oysters, pectinids (scallops) and echinoids (sea urchins) can be found within the Taynton Limestone and Hampen Formations. Discovered within the sandy lenses of Hampen Formation are rare plant fragments, and dinosaur footprints have been found near the top of the formation. These are now on display at the quarry office. The Shipton Member is generally devoid of fossils except, for a few beds containing borings and burrows made by marine animals such as molluscs and worms. At the top of this member is the Excavata bed where gastropods and the echinoids, Clypeus and Cidaris are found in abundance. Trace fossils, borings and bivalves are found in many beds throughout the Ardley Member. Fossils from large reptiles have been found from near the top of the member
0
0
Good way to cross the A417. Could be muddy in depths of winter I suspect.
0
0
well worth a visit , you really feel the atmosphere!
1
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What natural features can I explore around Ampney Crucis?
Ampney Crucis is nestled within the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, offering a tranquil natural setting. The village itself is characterized by the meandering Ampney Brook, a tributary of the River Thames. You can also explore the broader region's rolling countryside, peaceful walking trails, and the nearby River Coln, particularly around Bibury.
Are there any historical natural monuments to visit near Ampney Crucis?
Yes, you can visit the Cirencester Amphitheatre, a significant historical site. This huge earthwork is all that remains of one of the largest Roman amphitheatres in Britain, built in the early 2nd century, and would have held around 8,000 spectators. It's free to enter during daylight hours.
What unique natural monuments can I find in the area?
A truly unique natural monument is The Tallest Yew Hedge in the World. Planted in 1720, this impressive hedge stands at 13.1 meters (43 feet) high and surrounds the house belonging to Earl Bathurst.
Are there family-friendly natural monuments around Ampney Crucis?
Absolutely! Both the Cirencester Amphitheatre and The Tallest Yew Hedge in the World are considered family-friendly. Additionally, the Coronation Tree Carving in Cirencester Park, a wildlife-themed totem carved into a cedar, is also a great spot for families.
Can I find any interesting geological or paleontological sites?
Yes, the Daglingworth Gravel Track passes Daglingworth Quarry, which is known for its limestone aggregate extraction. A wide variety of fossils have been found here, including rare plant fragments and even dinosaur footprints, some of which are on display at the quarry office.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near these natural monuments?
The area around Ampney Crucis is excellent for various outdoor activities. You can find numerous cycling routes, including touring and road cycling, as well as running trails. For more details and specific routes, you can explore the Cycling around Ampney Crucis guide, Road Cycling Routes around Ampney Crucis guide, and Running Trails around Ampney Crucis guide.
Where is the Source of the River Thames located?
The Source of the River Thames is another natural monument you can visit in the vicinity. It's a notable spot for those interested in the origins of England's most famous river.
Are there walking routes near the natural monuments?
Yes, the Cotswolds region offers extensive opportunities for walking. You can enjoy peaceful strolls alongside the Ampney Brook or explore the gentle hills and scenic vistas on various trails. For specific running and walking routes, refer to the Running Trails around Ampney Crucis guide, which also includes walking options.
What is the best time of year to visit the natural monuments around Ampney Crucis?
The Cotswolds are beautiful year-round. Spring and summer offer lush greenery and pleasant weather for walking and cycling. Autumn brings stunning foliage, while winter can provide a peaceful, crisp atmosphere, especially for walks along the Ampney Brook or through the countryside.
What kind of wildlife might I encounter?
The diverse landscape of the Cotswolds AONB, with its grasslands, woodlands, and waterways like the Ampney Brook and River Coln, supports a variety of flora and fauna. While specific wildlife sightings can vary, you might spot local bird species, small mammals, and diverse plant life characteristic of the English countryside.
What do visitors enjoy most about the natural monuments in this area?
Visitors appreciate the peaceful atmosphere and the opportunity for relaxing outdoor activities. The blend of historical sites like the Cirencester Amphitheatre with unique natural features such as The Tallest Yew Hedge in the World and the geological interest of Daglingworth Gravel Track offers a rich and varied experience.
Are there any natural monuments that are particularly good for photography?
The picturesque settings of the Ampney Brook, the rolling Cotswold countryside, and the unique scale of The Tallest Yew Hedge in the World offer excellent photographic opportunities. The ancient earthworks of Cirencester Amphitheatre also provide a dramatic backdrop.
Most popular routes around Ampney Crucis
Most popular attractions around Ampney Crucis
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Extend your search for the best caves by checking out these guides of the top ones around Ampney Crucis:
