Wayland's Smithy is a Neolithic chambered long barrow. The site was once believed to be the home of Wayland, the Saxon god of metalworking, hence the name. Excavations have revealed that 14 people were buried in an earlier structure on the site. Between 3460 and 3400 BC a second, much larger barrow was constructed on top, which is what you can explore today. The site is managed by English Heritage.

The Chilterns Cycling Guide

July 8, 2020

Mountain biking

Just off the trail is Waylands Smithy, a Neolthic burial ground. Cool place to stop and have a rest/snack before carrying on.

Sharon

February 8, 2023

Hiking

Wayland's Smithy is an atmospheric historic site about a mile's walk along the Ridgeway from the Uffington White Horse. A Neolithic chambered long barrow, it was once believed to have been the home of Wayland, the Saxon god of metal working.

Human remains found on the site indicate that 14 people were interred in an earlier burial structure between 3590 and 3550 BC. Between 3460 and 3400 BC a second far larger barrow was constructed on top. It is the ruins of this that can be explored by visitors to the site today.

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Best Hikes to Wayland's Smithy Long Barrow

4.9

(16)

183

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1. Uffington White Horse & Wayland's Smithy loop — North Wessex Downs

6.24km

01:41

80m

Moderate hike. Great for any fitness level. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.

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Moderate

4.8

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2. White Horse Hill to Ashdown House loop — North Wessex Downs

13.9km

03:49

210m

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.

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Moderate

4.9

(23)

hikers

3. Uffington White Horse – Uffington Castle Hillfort loop from Uffington

15.1km

04:06

200m

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Moderate

Details

Informations

Elevation 250 m

Open during reasonable daylight hours

Free entry

Contacts

Ashbury, Oxfordshire

www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/waylands-smithy/

Weather

Today

Tuesday 27 January

10°C

4°C

98 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 32.0 km/h

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Location: Ashbury, Vale Of White Horse, Oxfordshire, South East England, England, United Kingdom

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Wayland's Smithy Long Barrow

1. Uffington White Horse & Wayland's Smithy loop — North Wessex Downs

2. White Horse Hill to Ashdown House loop — North Wessex Downs

3. Uffington White Horse – Uffington Castle Hillfort loop from Uffington

Other Popular Places to Check Out

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