Best attractions and places to see around Ashmansworth are found within the North Wessex Downs National Landscape. This charming village, known as Hampshire's highest, offers commanding views of the surrounding countryside. The area blends historical landmarks with diverse natural scenery, providing a rich landscape for exploration. Visitors can discover ancient sites and expansive chalk downland.
Last updated: July 6, 2026
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Replacements and Legacy: The original gibbet from 1676 eventually deteriorated. The current gibbet is actually the seventh to stand on the site. Previous versions were replaced due to rotting, being struck by lightning, vandalism, or being blown down by strong winds. The current replica was erected in 1992. While the gibbet was only ever used for the display of George Bromham and Dorothy Newman, its grim history has made it a local landmark and a popular spot for walkers, hang-gliders, and paragliders, offering expansive views across Berkshire, Hampshire, and Wiltshire. The story of the murders even inspired a 1948 silent film called "The Black Legend," made by a young John Schlesinger.
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The Gibbet's Purpose: After their execution, their bodies were brought back to Inkpen and prepared for public display. A large, double gibbet was hastily erected on the long barrow. The bodies of George and Dorothy, bound in chains, were then displayed on either side of the gibbet on March 6, 1676, as a stark and gruesome warning to the local community to deter similar crimes. The location was chosen due to its prominence and being on the border of the two parishes, as there was a dispute over which parish should bear the cost of the gibbet.
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The Murders and Gibbeting: The Crime: George Bromham, a married farm labourer from Combe, and Dorothy Newman, a widow from Inkpen, were having an illicit affair. To be together, they murdered George's wife, Martha Bromham, and their son, Robert. Accounts vary, but it's believed they waylaid Martha and Robert and beat them to death with staves near where the gibbet now stands. One dramatic, though likely far-fetched, version suggests George killed his wife by thrusting her head into a hornet's nest. The Witness: The crime was reportedly witnessed by a villager known as "Mad Thomas," who alerted the authorities. Trial and Execution: George Bromham and Dorothy Newman were tried at Winchester Assizes. They were found guilty and hanged in Winchester on March 3, 1676.
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The hillfort on the top of the hill has never been excavated, but the land and ditch are sharply defined and well preserved. This Iron Age fort is roughly rectangular and enclosed seven acres within an embankment and ditch. There are two probable entrances to the east and west. The work seems to have been undertaken by several different labour forces, each working on a section of the defences, but for some reason the task was abandoned and the fort left unfinished. Great to walk along the unfinished ramparts, it's windy and flipping huge!!!
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This is a wonderful spot with a lovely display of seasonal wildflowers that bloom within the spring and summer months.
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Greenham Common Control Tower is a museum and visitor centre. The control tower has major historical significance, playing an important role in both the Cold War and WW2 era. Visitors can explore the rich history of this building whilst taking in panoramic views at the observation desk. There is a café on site too where you can grab a hot drink or bite to eat.
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St Mary’s church is, as its appearance suggests, Norman (12th century) in origin and is a building of significant historical interest. There has been a church on the site for over 1000 years, the present church being built on the site of a former Saxon minster. Much of the present building dates from a major rebuilding in the 19th century. There are many interesting features including its unusual weather vane which is affectionately known locally as The Bedbug. Legend has it that its design was determined by King John, who on one occasion being prevented from reaching his hunting lodge on Cottington Hill by fog had to spend a night in the local inn where his night was badly disturbed by bedbugs! The church is open every day for visitors, for those wanting a quiet place to sit and think and for those wishing to pray. Cit. https://www.explorechurches.org/church/st-mary-kingsclere
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The area around Ashmansworth is rich in history. You can visit the ancient Ladle Hill Iron Age Hillfort, an unexcavated site offering sublime views. Another significant historical landmark is Combe Gibbet, a monument erected in 1676 with a macabre past and extensive views. Further afield, the Greenham Common Control Tower serves as a museum and visitor centre, detailing its role in the Cold War and WW2.
Ashmansworth, being the highest village in Hampshire, naturally offers commanding views. Excellent panoramic vistas can be enjoyed from Combe Gibbet on Gallows Down and from the top of Ladle Hill Iron Age Hillfort. The observation deck at Greenham Common Control Tower also provides sweeping views of the surrounding landscape.
Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. The Greenham Common Control Tower is a family-friendly museum with a cafe and observation deck. Exploring the ancient Ladle Hill Iron Age Hillfort can also be an engaging outdoor activity for all ages, offering space to roam and discover history. Additionally, St Mary's Church, Kingsclere, a historic Norman church, welcomes visitors and is considered family-friendly.
The North Wessex Downs National Landscape, where Ashmansworth is situated, is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. You'll find numerous opportunities for hiking and cycling. For hiking, explore routes like the 'Faccombe & Ashmansworth loop' or 'View from Combe Gibbet loop'. Cyclists can enjoy routes such as 'View of North Wessex Downs loop from St. Mary Bourne'. You can find more details and routes in the hiking guide and cycling guide for Ashmansworth.
Yes, there are several easy hiking options around Ashmansworth. You can find routes like the 'Hurstbourne Tarrant and Test Way Loop' or 'Hiking loop from Burghclere', which are generally shorter and less strenuous. These trails are perfect for a leisurely walk to enjoy the scenery. More easy routes are available in the Easy hikes around Ashmansworth guide.
Ashmansworth is nestled within the North Wessex Downs National Landscape, characterized by its high chalk ridges, hidden combes, and expansive farmland. Its elevated position provides extensive views over Berkshire and North Hampshire. The area is also home to unique habitats like the calcareous grassland chalk downland found at Ladle Hill Iron Age Hillfort, which boasts seasonal wildflowers.
St James' Church is a Grade I listed Church of England parish church with parts dating back to the mid-12th century. It features medieval wall paintings depicting the life of Jesus, some from the 1200s to 1600s, though now faded. The church underwent extensive remodeling in 1899 and stands as a significant historical and architectural site in the village.
Yes, the Greenham Common Control Tower has an on-site cafe where you can grab hot drinks and snacks. Additionally, St Mary's Church, Kingsclere, has a coffee shop and a Coop located directly opposite, providing convenient options for refreshments.
The Watership Down Climb is a challenging route through picturesque countryside, featuring steep inclines of up to 16%. It's popular among cyclists and hikers for its demanding nature and the rewarding high viewpoint at the top, offering stunning scenery of Watership Down itself. The route is generally quiet, with minimal traffic.
Visitors frequently praise the extensive and wonderful views from elevated points like Combe Gibbet and Ladle Hill Iron Age Hillfort. The historical significance of sites like the Greenham Common Control Tower and the peaceful, natural beauty of the North Wessex Downs are also highly appreciated. The komoot community has shared over 40 photos and given more than 90 upvotes to these attractions, highlighting their appeal.
Yes, the celebrated English composer Gerald Finzi resided at Church Farm, opposite St James' Church, from 1939 to 1956. During his time there, notable figures such as composer Ralph Vaughan Williams and cellist Jacqueline du Pré were among his visitors, adding a significant cultural layer to the village's history.
Absolutely. The North Wessex Downs National Landscape is very popular for cycling, with routes exploring the high chalk downland. You can find a variety of cycling routes, from moderate to difficult, such as the 'View of North Wessex Downs loop from St. Mary Bourne' or 'Bartlettsdown Copse loop from Woolton Hill'. More options are available in the cycling guide for Ashmansworth.


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