View of Alton Barnes White Horse
View of Alton Barnes White Horse
Highlight • Monument
Hiking
4.8
(49)
The View of Alton Barnes White Horse offers a spectacular perspective of one of Wiltshire's most iconic chalk hill figures. Carved into the southern slope of Milk Hill, approximately one mile north of the village of Alton Barnes, this colossal man-made monument overlooks the picturesque Pewsey Vale. Situated within the Pewsey Down Nature Reserve, between Milk Hill (Wiltshire's highest point at 295 metres) and Walker's Hill, the viewpoint itself sits at an elevation of around 256 metres above sea level.…
This Highlight is in a protected area
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July 1, 2021
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Nearby routes
Best routes near View of Alton Barnes White Horse
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Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Elevation 260 m
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Wednesday 15 April
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22 %
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Max wind speed: 18.0 km/h
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The Alton Barnes White Horse is designed to be appreciated from a distance to fully grasp its scale and impact within the landscape. Optimal road views are available from the Honey Street canal bridge, the Alton Priors road, and the Lockeridge road. For a closer experience, footpaths from nearby parking areas allow you to walk up towards the figure itself, though the best overall perspective is often from a slight distance.
Yes, there are parking areas available for visitors. While the intro mentions 'nearby parking areas,' specific details often point to designated car parks near Milk Hill or along the roads leading to the Pewsey Downs, from which various footpaths lead to the White Horse. It's advisable to check local signage upon arrival, especially during peak times when spaces can fill up quickly.
Public transport options directly to the Alton Barnes White Horse are limited. The nearest villages, such as Alton Barnes or Alton Priors, may have infrequent bus services. Most visitors typically arrive by car, and then access the site via footpaths from nearby parking. Planning your journey in advance with local transport providers is recommended if you intend to use public transport.
No, permits are generally not required for walking on the public footpaths and bridleways around the Alton Barnes White Horse or within the Pewsey Downs Nature Reserve. The area is open for public access, but visitors are expected to follow the Countryside Code, respecting the natural environment, livestock, and private land.
Walks around the Alton Barnes White Horse are generally considered moderate. The terrain can be varied, including some inclines as you ascend Milk Hill or traverse the downs. While many paths are well-trodden, some sections can be uneven or muddy, especially after rain. Appropriate footwear is highly recommended. There are options for shorter, gentler strolls as well as longer, more challenging hikes that connect to trails like the White Horse Trail or the Ridgeway.
Yes, the area around the Alton Barnes White Horse can be very suitable for families. While some paths involve moderate inclines, there are also flatter sections and shorter routes that are enjoyable for children. The open spaces are great for exploring, and the sight of the White Horse itself is often a highlight. Families should choose routes appropriate for their children's age and fitness levels, and be prepared for varied terrain.
Yes, dogs are generally welcome on the public footpaths and bridleways around the Alton Barnes White Horse and within the Pewsey Downs Nature Reserve. However, it is crucial to keep dogs on a lead, especially due to the presence of livestock (sheep and cattle) grazing on the downs. Always ensure your dog is under control and clean up after them to help preserve the natural environment.
Beyond the White Horse itself, the surrounding area is rich in history and natural beauty. You can find ancient features such as a long barrow and several examples of cross dykes, which are prehistoric earthworks. The site is also part of the Pewsey Downs Nature Reserve, offering expansive views of the Pewsey Vale. Additionally, the famous Ridgeway and the Great Stones Way pass nearby, connecting to a wider network of historical paths and other ancient sites.
While there are no cafes or pubs directly at the White Horse viewpoint, the nearby villages offer options for refreshments. Alton Barnes and Alton Priors are small, but slightly further afield, villages in the Pewsey Vale like Pewsey itself provide a wider selection of pubs, cafes, and shops where you can find food and drink after your walk.
The duration of your walk can vary significantly depending on your starting point and chosen route. A direct walk from a nearby parking area to the White Horse and back might take 1 to 2 hours. If you choose to incorporate the White Horse into a longer circular route exploring Milk Hill, Walker's Hill, or connecting to the White Horse Trail, your walk could easily extend to 3-4 hours or more, covering several miles.
The Alton Barnes White Horse was commissioned in 1812 by local farmer Robert Pile. He initially hired an inn sign painter, John Thorne, to design and oversee the carving. However, Thorne absconded with an advance payment, leaving local resident John Harvey to complete the work. The horse is based on the Cherhill White Horse and has been regularly maintained, or 'scoured,' throughout its two-century history to keep its chalk bright and visible.