The 4 Most Amazing Peaks around Calne

The area around Calne features several popular elevated points, often referred to as peaks. Among the most visited are the iconic Cherhill White Horse, which is the second oldest white horse in Wiltshire, and Morgan's Hill, known for its commanding views. Another notable spot is Beacon Hill Summit, offering panoramic chalkland vistas.

The peaks around Calne are rich in history. Morgan's Hill is an ancient site with a Roman road skirting its northern perimeter and the 5th-century Wansdyke defining its southern border. Cherhill Down, home to the Cherhill White Horse, also features Oldbury, an ancient square camp believed to be an Iron Age hill fort, and the historic Lansdowne Monument.

Yes, the hills offer excellent opportunities for nature observation. Morgan's Hill is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) due to its diverse chalk grassland, supporting various orchids, wildflowers like cowslips and primroses, and numerous butterflies. You might also spot Scots pine, juniper, and yew trees.

The elevated points around Calne provide stunning panoramic views. From Morgan's Hill, you can enjoy incredible vistas over Cherhill Down and the plains of North Wiltshire. Cherhill White Horse offers breathtaking views over the picturesque countryside, and from its 840 ft (260 m) summit, fine views extending up to 25 miles can be enjoyed on a clear day. Beacon Hill Summit also provides stunning chalkland views.

The open spaces and well-defined paths on hills like Cherhill Down make them suitable for family walks. While some ascents can be steep, the rewards of the views and historical landmarks like the Cherhill White Horse and Lansdowne Monument can be engaging for all ages. Always check the specific trail difficulty for younger children.

Yes, many of the trails and open spaces on the downs, such as Cherhill Down, are popular with dog walkers. The wide-open areas provide plenty of room for dogs to enjoy. However, always ensure dogs are kept under control, especially near livestock or sensitive wildlife areas, and follow local signage regarding leash requirements.

Beyond hiking and walking, the area around Calne offers various outdoor activities. You can explore numerous cycling routes, including easy and moderate options like the 'Black Dog Halt Cycleway loop' or the 'Avebury Stone Circle loop'. For runners, there are trails such as the 'Black Dog Halt Cycleway loop' or routes around Bowood House. Find more details on these activities in the Road Cycling Routes around Calne, Cycling around Calne, and Running Trails around Calne guides.

While specific named hiking routes for individual peaks aren't detailed in the guide, the region offers many opportunities for walking. The steep sides of Morgan's Hill provide a good workout, and Cherhill Down is popular for ramblers. You can find various running and cycling routes that traverse these areas in the Running Trails around Calne guide, which can often be adapted for hiking.

The chalk downland peaks around Calne are beautiful year-round, but spring and summer are particularly rewarding for enjoying the abundant wildflowers and butterflies, especially on sites like Morgan's Hill. Clear days in any season will offer the best panoramic views. Be prepared for wind due to the elevation, especially on exposed locations like Tan Hill.

The Cherhill White Horse is notable for being the second oldest white horse in Wiltshire, cut into the chalk hillside in 1780. It's a distinctive landmark visible for many miles and is adjacent to the Lansdowne Monument. The horse is maintained by the local Parish Council and a restoration group, undergoing regular re-chalking to preserve its iconic outline.

Beyond the Cherhill White Horse, you can also find a great viewpoint for the Devizes White Horse. From the 591-feet (180 m) high summit of Etchilhampton Hill, you are afforded wonderful views over the patchwork landscape, including a clear sight of the Devizes White Horse.