Local Area Guide

A hauntingly beautiful ruined castle set in landscaped grounds, reachable on foot directly from Ansty village.

Built in the 14th century and partially destroyed during the English Civil War, Old Wardour is one of England's most romantic ruins. English Heritage managed, with a small entry fee.

The world's most iconic prehistoric monument — a UNESCO World Heritage Site that never fails to astonish.

Book tickets in advance to avoid queues. The visitor centre is excellent. Combine with a visit to Avebury for a full day of prehistoric Wiltshire.

England's tallest medieval spire soars above one of the finest Gothic cathedrals in Europe, home to the best-preserved Magna Carta.

The cathedral close is one of the most beautiful in England. Allow at least two hours. The city itself has excellent independent restaurants and shops.

One of England's finest landscape gardens — a National Trust masterpiece of lakes, temples, and woodland walks.

Spectacular in every season. The autumn colours are extraordinary. The house is also open and worth visiting. Allow a full half-day.

England's only natural World Heritage Site — 95 miles of dramatic cliffs, fossil beaches, and sea stacks along the Dorset coast.

Lyme Regis and Charmouth are the best spots for fossil hunting. Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove are unmissable. A wonderful full-day trip.

Miles of ancient chalk downland paths through an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, starting right from Ansty village.

The Chase is one of England's least-visited and most beautiful landscapes. Ancient drove roads, Iron Age hillforts, and sweeping views across Dorset and Wiltshire.

An award-winning country inn at Fonthill Gifford — one of the finest gastropubs in Wiltshire, with rooms and a beautiful garden.

Seasonal menus, local ales, and a genuinely warm welcome. Booking essential at weekends. The Sunday roast is exceptional.

A proper village pub with a roaring fire, local ales, and honest home-cooked food in a beautiful thatched setting.

A true local — unpretentious, welcoming, and exactly what a village pub should be. Dogs welcome. Check opening times before visiting.

Tisbury is the nearest market town with a good deli, butcher, and train station. Shaftesbury's Gold Hill is one of England's most photographed streets.

Tisbury has a Waitrose, independent shops, and a direct train to London Waterloo. Shaftesbury's Abbey ruins and views over Blackmore Vale are not to be missed.