Westbury City Guide

About Westbury – History and Culture

Westbury, nestled in the western edge of Wiltshire, England, is a historic market town that traces its roots to the Saxon era. Its name, derived from 'Westburg' (western fortification), hints at its early strategic importance. The town grew around the medieval wool trade, and by the 16th century Westbury was a thriving centre for cloth manufacture. The legacy of this prosperity is visible in the fine timber-framed and stone buildings that still line the High Street.

The most iconic symbol of Westbury is the Westbury White Horse, a massive chalk carving on the Bratton Downs. Cut in 1778, it replaced an earlier 17th-century horse, and it is a Scheduled Ancient Monument. The horse overlooks the town and has become a symbol of local identity. In modern times, Westbury has evolved into a commuter settlement for Bath and Bristol, while retaining its market-town charm with a strong sense of community.

Culture in Westbury is a blend of rural tradition and contemporary living. The town hosts annual events like the Westbury Street Fair and the Wiltshire Music Centre concerts. The local museum, Leighton House, preserves the town's history, and the nearby villages offer a glimpse of quintessential English countryside. Westbury's culture is also shaped by its proximity to prehistoric sites like Stonehenge and Avebury, making it a gateway to millennia of heritage.

• Westbury White Horse – the most famous hill figure in England, visible for miles.
• Leighton House Museum – Victorian townhouse with period rooms and local exhibits.
• Allington Manor – medieval moated manor house with beautiful gardens.
• St Mary's Church – 14th-century parish church with a 1775 cupola.
• Westbury Market Square – bustling market every Thursday and Saturday.
• Bratton Castle – Iron Age hillfort adjacent to the White Horse.
• Westbury Railway Station – Grade II listed Victorian building.
• The Lace Factory – converted textile mill now housing shops and eateries.

Did You Know? – Facts about Westbury

Westbury is a town of surprising records and intriguing facts. While small, it punches above its weight in historical significance. For instance, the White Horse is not just a local icon but a national treasure, appearing on postage stamps and tourist brochures. The town's street plan still follows its medieval layout, with narrow lanes and a central market cross.

The town is also known for its diversity of wildlife on the surrounding downs, including rare butterflies and orchids. Westbury has been a filming location for several British TV series, including 'Poldark' and 'Doctor Who' (for nearby landscapes). The local community is active in preserving heritage, with groups like the Westbury Heritage Society.

• The Westbury White Horse is the oldest of several white horses in Wiltshire.
• Westbury was once a major railway junction with lines to Bristol, Bath, and Salisbury.
• The town's former brewery, Westbury Brewery, closed in 1960 but its building remains.
• Westbury hosted the National Gliding Championships in the 1970s.
• Bratton Camp hillfort has been inhabited since the Iron Age (800 BC).
• Westbury has a twinning association with Feyzin, France.
• The town's library is located in a former Methodist chapel.
• Westbury's annual Street Fair is one of the oldest in the region, granted by charter in 1252.
• The Bitham Lake is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).
• Westbury's population increased by 10% between 2011 and 2021.
• The town has a free newspaper, 'The Westbury Times'.
• Westbury was part of the ancient Selwood Forest, now largely cleared.
• The local football team, Westbury United, plays at the Meadow Lane ground.

Geography and Climate of Westbury

Westbury lies in the western part of Wiltshire, on the edge of the Salisbury Plain and the Cranborne Chase AONB. The town is situated in a valley surrounded by chalk downs, with the White Horse prominently marking the escarpment. The Bristol Avon River flows through the town, and the area is characterized by rolling hills, woodlands, and agricultural land.

The climate is temperate maritime, similar to much of southern England. Summers are warm but rarely hot, with average highs of 22°C in July. Winters are cool and damp, with January averages around 4°C. Rainfall is moderate, around 800mm annually, with no distinct dry season. The town is not coastal but benefits from fresh air and occasional sea breezes from the Bristol Channel.

• Westbury is 20 miles southeast of Bristol and 12 miles west of Trowbridge.
• The highest point nearby is the Westbury White Horse hill at 230m.
• Bitham Lake is a 30-acre wetland nature reserve.
• Westbury has several distinct neighborhoods: the historic centre, Leigh Park, and Dilton Marsh.
• The surrounding area is known for dairy farming and arable crops.
• Average sunshine hours are 1,600 per year.
• Westbury is not prone to extreme weather, but occasional flooding occurs near the river.

Things to Do in Westbury

Westbury offers a mix of outdoor adventure, historical exploration, and local food experiences. From walking the White Horse to visiting ancient hillforts, there's plenty to keep visitors and residents engaged. The town is also a gateway to wider Wiltshire attractions.

Food & Dining

Westbury's dining scene reflects its rural setting, with traditional pubs serving classic British fare alongside a few contemporary eateries. The High Street features family-run cafes, fish and chip shops, and Indian restaurants. For a special meal, try The George Inn for gastropub dishes or The Old Ham Tree for afternoon tea.

Local specialities include Wiltshire ham, sausages, and cheeses from local farms. Farmers' markets and the weekly general market offer fresh produce. Westbury is also close to the Gordons Farm Shop for local meats and dairy.

• The George Hotel – historic coaching inn with modern British menu.
• Nazma's Indian Cuisine – popular for curries and tandoori.
• Westbury Fish Bar – award-winning fish and chips.
• The Orchard Café – light lunches and cakes in a garden setting.
• Dilton Marsh's Bell Inn – traditional pub with real ales.
• Eddison's Café – full English breakfast and coffee.
• Westbury Pizza & Kebab – late-night takeaway.

Festivals & Events

Westbury's event calendar is rooted in tradition but includes modern celebrations. The Westbury Street Fair (July) is a major event with stalls, rides, and live music. The Wiltshire Music Centre hosts concerts year-round. The Christmas lights switch-on and carol services draw large crowds.

Other events include the Westbury Food & Drink Festival (September), the White Horse Challenge cycling sportive, and the Westbury Craft Fair. The nearby Bratton Camp is used for outdoor theatre and re-enactments.

• Westbury Street Fair – first Saturday in July.
• Westbury Food Festival – third weekend in September.
• White Horse Challenge – charity bike ride in May.
• Westbury Christmas Market – early December.
• Wiltshire Music Centre concerts – classical, jazz, folk.
• Bratton Camp open-air performances – summer.
• Westbury Craft Fair – spring and autumn.
• Westbury Town Council's annual civic service.

Cultural Attractions

Leighton House Museum is the town's primary cultural attraction, housed in a restored Victorian merchant's house. It features period rooms, local history exhibits, and archives. The Westbury Heritage Centre (at the old fire station) offers family history resources.

Nearby, the American Museum & Gardens in Bath (30 minutes) and the Jane Austen Centre in Bath are day-trip options. In Westbury itself, the Allington Manor gardens and the St Mary's Church architecture are worth exploring.

• Leighton House Museum – open Wed to Sat, free entry.
• Allington Manor – house and garden tours by appointment.
• St Mary's Church – 14th-century architecture and memorials.
• Westbury Heritage Centre – local genealogy help.
• The Market Cross – medieval stone structure.
• Westbury Library – hosts temporary art exhibitions.

Outdoor Activities

The Westbury White Horse and Bratton Country Park are the prime outdoor destinations. Walk the White Horse Trail (5-mile loop) for panoramic views. Bitham Lake Nature Reserve is excellent for birdwatching and gentle walks. For cycling, the Wylye Valley and Salisbury Plain offer challenging routes.

Horse riding is popular on the downs, and there are several riding schools near Westbury. Golfers can enjoy the Westbury Golf Club (9-hole course). Fishing is available at local lakes and the River Avon.

• White Horse Trail – circular walk with signposted routes.
• Bitham Lake – bird hides and boardwalks.
• Bratton Camp hillfort – history and views.
• Westbury Golf Club – par 68, 9 links.
• Westbury Leisure Centre – swimming pool and gym.
• Cycle route 24 – connects to Salisbury.
• Horse riding at Manor Farm Stables.
• Fishing at Bitham Lake (permit required).
• Cricket at Westbury Cricket Club – summer matches.

Economy and Key Industries

Westbury's economy has evolved from its wool and cloth roots to a diverse mix of services, retail, and light manufacturing. The town serves as a commuter base for major cities Bath and Bristol, with many residents working in professional services, education, and healthcare. The retail sector is anchored by the High Street and a small Morrisons supermarket.

Key industries include engineering (with several precision engineering firms), logistics (due to good road and rail links), and agriculture. The nearby military establishments (former RAF Lyneham now part of MOD) provide some employment. Tourism also contributes, centered on the White Horse and heritage attractions.

The town has seen recent investment in new housing developments, which has boosted the construction sector. However, Westbury is working to retain local businesses and encourage entrepreneurship through the Westbury Chamber of Commerce.

• Major employers include Wincanton logistics, Westbury Engineering, and the NHS Wiltshire.
• Westbury Industrial Estate hosts several warehousing and distribution companies.
• The town has a high proportion of self-employed residents (around 15%).
• Agriculture contributes with dairy, sheep, and crop farming.
• Tourism is growing, with visitor numbers increasing 12% from 2019.
• The Westbury White Horse attracts over 100,000 visits annually.
• Retail units have a vacancy rate of about 8% (below national average).
• The town is home to a branch of Lloyds Bank, Nationwide, and HSBC.
• Westbury's average workplace wage is £28,500 (lower than regional average).

Where to Live in Westbury

Westbury offers a range of residential areas, from the historic town centre with period cottages to modern housing estates on the outskirts. The most sought-after streets are those around the market square and in the conservation area, featuring Georgian and Victorian terraces. Family-friendly neighborhoods include Leigh Park and Bratton Road, with larger detached homes.

The village of Dilton Marsh, just west of Westbury, is popular for its rural feel and good schools. The eastern side of town, near the railway station, is convenient for commuters. For those seeking countryside living, the hamlets of Bratton, Edington, and Cottles offer peace but require a car.

Beyond the town, the Wiltshire countryside is dotted with charming villages like West Ashton and Hawkeridge. House prices in Westbury are lower than the UK average but have risen in recent years due to demand from Bath and Bristol workers.

• Historic Centre – cobbled streets, listed buildings, small flats and cottages.
• Leigh Park – 1930s semi-detached homes, close to schools and parks.
• Dilton Marsh – quiet village with village green, primary school, and pub.
• Bratton – hilltop village near the White Horse, commuter-friendly.
• Westbury Fields – modern estate (2000s) with mostly 3-4 bed detached homes.
• Hawkeridge – rural hamlet with farming community.
• Westbury Leigh – older part of town, mix of old and new.
• Edington – historic village with priory church, larger homes.
• Average house price in Westbury (2024): £320,000 for a semi-detached.
• Rental average: £950 pcm for a 2-bed house.

Formalities and Visas in Westbury

As Westbury is part of the United Kingdom, all UK immigration rules apply. For non-UK nationals, entry clearance may be required depending on nationality. The UK points-based immigration system covers work, study, and family visas. Westbury itself does not have a distinct immigration office; applications are processed through UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) online.

For EU nationals, the EU Settlement Scheme closed in 2021, but those with pre-settled or settled status can continue living and working. New arrivals from the EU now need a visa under the points-based system, such as the Skilled Worker visa. Non-EU nationals typically need a visa unless from visa-exempt countries for short stays.

Local resources include the Westbury Citizens Advice Bureau for immigration guidance, and solicitors specializing in immigration law. It's advisable to start visa applications well in advance. The nearest visa application centre is in London (premium service) or via a partner centre in Bristol.

• Skilled Worker visa – minimum salary £26,200 for most roles.
• Health and Care Worker visa – reduced fees and priority.
• Global Talent visa – for researchers and leaders in arts, sciences.
• Student visa – for full-time courses at UK universities; need Confirmation of Acceptance (CAS).
• Family visa – for partners, children, and dependent relatives.
• Youth Mobility Scheme – for under-30s from certain countries (e.g., Australia, Canada).
• Visitor visa – up to 6 months, no work allowed.
• Home Office English language requirement for most visa routes.
• Biometric residence permit (BRP) collection from post office in Trowbridge.
• Indefinite Leave to Remain – usually after 5 years on certain visas.
• Westbury is a designated area for the 'Global Talent' network.
• No local visa premiums; applications are online.

Working in Westbury

The job market in Westbury is limited compared to larger cities, but opportunities exist in retail, education, healthcare, and manufacturing. Many residents commute to Bath (25 mins train), Bristol (40 mins), or Swindon (45 mins). Local employment is supported by the Westbury Industrial Estate and several business parks.

Key sectors include: engineering (e.g., Westbury Precision Engineering), logistics (Wincanton, DHL), and public service (Westbury Town Council, local schools). The National Health Service (NHS) operates clinics and community services, providing nursing and admin roles. There is a growing freelance/remote work culture due to good broadband (average 80 Mbps).

Professional culture in Westbury is generally relaxed, with a strong emphasis on work-life balance. Business attire is typically smart-casual in most sectors. The town has a Chamber of Commerce that runs networking events. For job seekers, the nearest Jobcentre Plus is in Trowbridge (6 miles).

• Average salary in Westbury: £28,000 (2024 estimate).
• Top local employers: Westbury Engineering, Wincanton, Wiltshire Council, NHS Wiltshire.
• Commuting to Bath/Bristol is common; rail season ticket to Bristol costs £3,500/year.
• Remote work is feasible; co-working space at Westbury Enterprise Hub.
• Typical working hours: 9am-5pm, Monday to Friday.
• Paid holiday: 28 days statutory (including bank holidays).
• Self-employment is popular among tradespeople and creatives.
• Job agencies active: Hays, REED, and local Wiltshire Staff.
• Volunteering opportunities at local charities and museums.

Studying in Westbury

Westbury has a good range of schools for all ages, from primary to secondary. The main secondary school is Westbury Academy (formerly Westbury Secondary School), which has a good Ofsted rating. There are also several primary schools: Westbury Church of England Primary, Dilton Marsh Primary, and Bitham Brook Primary.

For further education, students often travel to Wiltshire College in Trowbridge (offers A-levels, vocational courses) or to Bath College and City of Bristol College. Higher education usually means a commute to the University of Bath, University of Bristol, or University of the West of England (UWE). Westbury itself has no university, but the nearby University of Bath is a top-ranked institution (30 minutes by train).

Student life for those living in Westbury involves commuting or renting in Bath/Bristol. However, Westbury is a relatively affordable base for students attending universities in the region, with good train links. For adult learners, there are community education classes at the Westbury Arts Centre and local evening classes.

• Westbury Academy – secondary school (age 11-18), good sixth form.
• Westbury Church of England Primary – rated 'Good' by Ofsted.
• Dilton Marsh Primary – small village school with strong community.
• Bitham Brook Primary – larger primary with before/after school clubs.
• Wiltshire College Trowbridge – offers over 200 courses.
• University of Bath – 30 mins train, world ranking #166 (QS).
• University of Bristol – 40 mins train, Russell Group.
• UWE Bristol – 50 mins via car or train+bus.
• Student accommodation in Westbury is limited; private rentals shared.
• Average student rent: £550 pcm for a room in shared house.
• Student discounts at local shops with NUS card.
• Bus passes for students are available at reduced rates.

Finance and Banks in Westbury

Westbury has branches of the major high-street banks: Lloyds, Barclays, HSBC, and Nationwide Building Society. Most are located on the High Street or Market Place. Opening a bank account as a newcomer requires proof of identity, address, and sometimes a visa or residence permit. Digital banking is widely adopted, with apps from all major banks.

For day-to-day transactions, contactless payments are accepted everywhere. ATMs are plentiful, though some charge fees (check operators). For international transfers, services like Wise and Revolut are popular. The local post office also offers basic banking services, including cash withdrawals and deposits.

Taxation in the UK is handled by HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC). Most employees have tax deducted via PAYE. Self-employed individuals must file a tax return. Westbury has a local HMRC office in Trowbridge, but most queries are handled online. National Insurance contributions are required for state benefits.

• Lloyds Bank – full service, open Mon-Sat.
• Barclays Bank – with cash machine and counter service.
• HSBC – limited hours, but online banking available.
• Nationwide Building Society – savings and mortgages.
• Post Office – basic banking including cash and bill payment.
• ATM locations: outside Lloyds, Barclays, and at Morrisons.
• Digital banks used: Monzo, Starling, Revolut.
• Income tax: 20% on earnings up to £50,270; 40% thereafter.
• VAT: 20% on most goods and services (included in prices).
• Council tax: band D average £1,800 per year in Westbury.
• ISA allowance: £20,000 per year tax-free savings.

Health Care in Westbury

Healthcare in Westbury is provided by the National Health Service (NHS) Wiltshire Clinical Commissioning Group. The town has two GP practices: Westbury Group Practice and The Stourbridge Medical Centre. Both offer appointments, online booking, and minor surgery. For emergencies, the nearest A&E is at Royal United Hospital Bath (30 mins) or Great Western Hospital Swindon (45 mins).

Dental care is available at Westbury Dental Practice and several private clinics. Waiting times for NHS dental appointments can be long, so many residents opt for private care. Pharmacies in Westbury include Boots, LloydsPharmacy, and a local independent chemist. For mental health support, the NHS provides counseling through Wiltshire Health and Care.

• Westbury Group Practice – over 15,000 patients, offers online consultations.
• Stourbridge Medical Centre – smaller practice, friendly staff.
• Westbury Dental Practice – NHS and private patients.
• Boots Pharmacy – opening hours Mon-Sat, closed Sun.
• LloydsPharmacy – in Morrisons, open long hours.
• Royal United Hospital Bath – A&E, maternity, and specialist services.
• Great Western Hospital Swindon – alternative A&E with helipad.
• NHS 111 – for non-emergency medical advice.
• Private healthcare: Spire Bath Clinic (30 mins) and BMI Healthcare.
• Health visitors and school nurses available through Wiltshire Council.
• Ambulance service: South Western Ambulance Service, response times variable.

Accommodation in Westbury

Westbury offers a diverse range of housing from period cottages to modern estates. The town's property market has seen steady growth, partly due to its connectivity. For renters, there are apartments above shops, terraced houses, and new-builds on estates like Westbury Fields. Buying a home is more common; average prices are around £320,000.

Short-term rentals and holiday lets are available for temporary stays. The town has a few guesthouses and B&Bs, such as The Old Rectory and The Plough Inn. For long-term rentals, expect to pay £750-1000 pcm for a 2-bed house. The housing market is competitive, so early introduction to local estate agents is advisable.

• Greenfield Park – modern 2-4 bed houses built 2019, popular with families.
• Historic town centre – Georgian terraces and converted barns.
• Leigh Park area – 1930s semi-detached, large gardens.
• Dilton Marsh – village houses, some with scenic views.
• Rental costs: 1-bed flat £600 pcm, 3-bed house £1100 pcm.
• Property purchase timeline: typically 3-4 months from offer to completion.
• Estate agents: Allen & Harris, Connells, and local Parker's.

Planning Your Move to Westbury

Relocating to Westbury involves several practical steps. First, arrange housing – either rent short-term or finalize a purchase. Next, register with a GP and dentist upon arrival. Set up utilities: electricity, water, gas (if applicable), broadband, and council tax. The local council is Wiltshire Council, covering waste collection and other services.

For those moving from abroad, ensure you have the right visa, a UK bank account, and National Insurance number (can be applied for after arrival). Westbury has good transport links, so a car is not essential if living near the station. However, many areas require a car for errands.

• Notify schools, employers, and update address with government agencies.
• Utility providers: British Gas, EDF, Octopus Energy (switch for best rates).
• Broadband: Virgin Media (cable), BT, Sky, fibre options available.
• Council tax: band A to H; check before moving.
• TV licence required for live TV viewing (pay annually or monthly).
• Driving: exchange foreign license within 12 months (if from recognized countries).
• Register to vote at local council offices.
• Pet travel: pets need microchip, rabies vaccination, and pet passport (for EU).
• Moving documents: birth certificate, marriage certificate (if applicable).
• International shipping: use a removal company with UK agents.

Leisure in Westbury

Despite its modest size, Westbury has a vibrant leisure scene. The town boasts a leisure centre (Westbury Leisure Centre) with a swimming pool, gym, and classes. For sports, there are football, rugby, and cricket clubs. The Westbury Bowls Club and Tennis Club are active.

For nightlife, there are several pubs such as The George, The Greyhound, and The White Horse. Some offer live music, especially at weekends. The town also has a cinema (The Palace Cinema) showing current films. Shopping is mainly on the High Street with independent boutiques, charity shops, and a Morrisons supermarket. For a broader experience, Bath and Bristol are a short trip away.

• Westbury Leisure Centre – £30 monthly membership.
• Westbury & District Bowls Club – social membership open.
• Westbury Rugby Club – senior and junior teams.
• Westbury Tennis Club – floodlit courts.
• The Palace Cinema – two screens, standard and 3D.
• Pubs with live music: The George (weekly), The Three Horseshoes.
• Morrisons supermarket – open 7am-10pm.
• Bath: 20 min train for shopping at SouthGate and Pulteney Bridge.
• Bristol: 40 min train for nightlife, restaurants, and theatres.

Transportation Options in Westbury

Westbury is well-connected by road and rail. The railway station (Westbury (Wilts)) lies on the Wessex Main Line, with direct trains to London Paddington (80 min), Bath Spa (25 min), Bristol Temple Meads (40 min), and Southampton Central. There are also services to Cardiff, Exeter, and Swindon. The station has step-free access and a car park.

Road access is via the A350, connecting to the M4 (J17) 12 miles north for London and South Wales, and the A36 for the south coast. National Express coaches serve the town with stops at the Market Place. Local bus services (operated by First and Faresaver) link Westbury to Trowbridge, Warminster, and Frome. The town is also on National Cycle Route 24.

• Westbury railway station – ticket office, waiting room, free Wi-Fi.
• London Paddington: 1hr 20min, off-peak return around £60.
• Bristol Temple Meads: 40 min, £20 return.
• National Express: to London Victoria (3hrs) via Bath.
• Buses: X47 to Trowbridge, D1 to Salisbury.
• Taxi firms: Westbury Cars, White Horse Taxis.
• Car parks: High Street (pay and display), Leigh Park free.
• Cycle hire: no formal scheme, but local bike shops offer rentals.

Everyday Life in Westbury

Life in Westbury is typical of a small English market town. The pace is relaxed, with a strong sense of community. The High Street bustles on market days (Thursday and Saturday) and most shops close by 5:30pm. Supermarkets stay open later. Residents often chat in the street, and local news is shared via community Facebook groups.

Safety is generally good; crime rates are low, though some rural thefts occur. The town has a police station (limited opening hours) and Neighbourhood Watch schemes. Services like recycling, libraries, and leisure centres are of a reasonable standard. The town is notably friendly to families and retirees.

• Weekly bin collection: general waste one week, recycling the next.
• Westbury Library – free borrowing, computer access, events.
• Post offices: main branch on High Street (open 9am-5pm Mon-Sat).
• Postcode for town centre: BA13 3DZ.
• Crime rate per 1,000 residents: 55 (property crime) vs national average 70.
• Churches: St Mary's (C of E), Methodist, Catholic (Holy Trinity).
• Community events: coffee mornings, craft fairs, school fetes.

Cost of Living in Westbury

Westbury offers a lower cost of living compared to Bath, Bristol, and London. Housing is the biggest expense, but rental and purchase prices are below the UK average. Utilities, food, and transport are moderate. Council tax is high in band D (around £1,800) but lower for smaller homes.

A single person can live comfortably on £25,000 after tax, while a family of four might need £40,000+. Eating out is affordable; a pub meal costs about £12-15. Public transport is reasonably priced if using railcards.

• Coffee: £3.00 (latte).
• Meal for two at pub: £40-60.
• Monthly energy bill (3-bed): £150-200.
• Monthly groceries: £400 for family of four.
• Public transport (local bus) single: £2.50.
• Rail season ticket to Bristol: £218 per month (with railcard).
• Gym membership: £30/month.
• Rent 2-bed: £950-1100 pcm.
• Childcare: full-time nursery £1,000 per month.

Places to Visit in Westbury

Westbury's star attraction is the Westbury White Horse, which can be viewed up close from the footpaths or admired from the B3098. Near the horse is Bratton Camp, an Iron Age hillfort with earthworks. The countryside around Westbury is crisscrossed with walking routes, including the Imber Range Perimeter Path and the White Horse Trail.

The town itself has Leighton House Museum, the historic Allington Manor, and St Mary's Church. For families, the Bitham Lake Nature Reserve provides gentle nature walks and wildlife watching. Just outside town are the remains of the medieval Westbury Castle (mound only) and the beautiful village of Bratton.

Day trips from Westbury can include Stonehenge (25 miles east), Longleat Safari Park (15 miles south), and the Roman city of Bath (12 miles north). The Georgian city of Bath offers the Roman Baths, Bath Abbey, and the Royal Crescent, plus shopping and dining. The Wiltshire countryside also offers the ancient White Horse at Uffington and Avebury stone circle.

For those interested in military history, the nearby towns of Tidworth and Warminster have army museums. The Kennet & Avon Canal passes through nearby Devizes, offering canal boat trips and towpath walks.

• Westbury White Horse – free access, panoramic views, parking at Bratton Camp.

• Geography & Location

  Region

  South West

  Local Reach

  High Growth

  Timezone

  UTC/Local

  Fascinating Local Facts

  - Westbury is famous for its 55-metre-long hill figure, the Westbury White Horse.
  - The White Horse was cut into the chalk hillside in 1778, though an earlier version existed in the 1600s.
  - Westbury has a population of around 16,000 (2021 census).
  - The town's name comes from Old English 'Westburg' meaning 'western fortification'.
  - Westbury was a major centre for the wool and cloth trade in the 16th century.
  - The Grade I listed Westbury Manor dates back to the 15th century.
  - The town's railway station opened in 1848, linking it to London Paddington.
  - Westbury is home to the oldest working water-powered corn mill in Wiltshire, Allington Manor Mill.
  - The Bitham Nature Reserve offers a glimpse of ancient woodland and wild orchids.
  - Westbury's annual Street Fair dates back to the 13th century.
  - The Leighton House Museum features local history and Victorian artefacts.
  - Westbury is part of the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) Cranborne Chase.
  - The town has a strong military connection with the nearby RAF Lyneham (now closed).
  - Westbury's historic market square is lined with 17th and 18th-century buildings.
  - The town is a gateway to the White Horse Country Park and walking trails.