The best running trails around Devizes

The lion monument at the base of Etchilhampton Hill (Monument Hill) was erected in 1771 and is a local landmark. It was made in honour of James Long of Wedhampton, whose family crest was the lion. He saw to the construction of a new road from Nursteed to Lydeway, avoiding the old road which had a very steep gradient and was tedious and dangerous for horses and travellers, and often used by highwaymen. The sound of a ghostly coach and horses have been heard nearby but never seen. Crop circles have been formed on the hill here. The lion, on a stone plinth has an unusual iron tail, and until they fell off - wooden forepaws. These were replaced An apprentice was sent to start work on restoring the lion and found an elder tree growing from one of the lions joints. He was about to remove it when a group of gypsies passed by and told him not to. A family whose son had gone off to the first world war had placed a seed on the lion, convinced that if the tree grew, their son would return home safe. Legend says when the clock of St.James church in Devizes strikes midnight, the lion goes to a farm pond in Stert to drink. It is also said that the lion stands at the corner of Tinkfield Farm and this field was the meeting place of the 'Stodfald Hundred' and the lion is there on guard.

Exciting trees, birds and wildlife to explore

From Folly Road walk towards Roundway Hill.This horse was cut in 1999 for the Millenium and is the newest in Wiltshire

Friendly local pub close to Devizes Market Square.Live music events

https://www.hopback.co.uk/pubs/the-southgate/

Perhaps the most famous local legend is that of the Moonrakers, which is reputed to have taken place at the Crammer (Devizes town’s pond). The story goes that a group of Wiltshire smugglers heard the Excise Men approaching the town, therefore they had to quickly conceal the contraband brandy they were carrying by rolling the barrels into the Crammer. Once the Excise Men had passed, the smugglers needed to recover the barrels using a rake. The Excise Men were suspicious and therefore came back to take a second look. Catching the men with rakes they demanded to know what they were doing. Not being stupid, one pointed to the reflection of the moon in the pond’s surface and said that they were trying to rake out the cheese from the water. The Excise Men left, laughing at how stupid Devizes people can be. However it was the smugglers who had the loudest laugh as their quick thinking had stopped them being caught. To this day, Wiltshire people are known as ‘Moonrakers’.

The beautiful tranquil canal is suitable for walking and cycling.

Sunday to Thursday 11am - 9pm, Friday to Saturday 11am - 10pm. www.thebridgeinnathorton.co.uk/