94% (2K) • 1,340 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds in North Wessex Downs AONB
Woodlands Camping
1. Woodlands Camping
97%
(104)
Ropley, England · 10 units · Tents, Motorhomes
A back-to-basics campsite in the South Downs National Park
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from
£27
/ night
Radcot Leisure on Thames
2. Radcot Leisure on Thames
89%
(305)
Oxfordshire, England · 50 units · Tents, Glamping
A Thames’ island campsite in the Oxfordshire countryside – with a lovely pub just over the bridge
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from
£30
/ night
Stockbridge View Campsite
3. Stockbridge View Campsite
93%
(89)
Stockbridge, England · 62 units · Tents, Motorhomes
A simple campsite in the Test Valley, just a 15-minute walk from Stockbridge
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from
£20
/ night
Stowford Manor Farm Campsite
4. Stowford Manor Farm Campsite
87%
(39)
Trowbridge, England · 51 units
We are a family run farm situated in the beautiful Frome valley. The farm has a range of interests from the traditional Jersey milking cows to a community of workshops used by local craftsmen. The cafe serves cream teas from Easter to the end of September and pizzas are sold in evenings during the summer months.
Ours is a small family run camp site with the River Frome on one side, next to the medieval buildings of Stowford Farm. The river is suitable for fishing, boating, swimming and paddling. Historic Bradford-on-Avon is only a 5 minute drive and the City of Bath 15 minutes. For those who enjoy more rural pleasures, 200 metres from the campsite Farleigh Hungerford boasts the only river swimming club in the country, and you can become an instant member for a very small fee.
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from
£110
/ night
Teddy's Farm
5. Teddy's Farm
99%
(154)
Boldre, England · 95 units · Tents, Glamping
Family-friendly pop-up camping in the heart of the New Forest.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from
£12
/ night
Wild Camping in the Cotswolds
6. Wild Camping in the Cotswolds
100%
(57)
Aldsworth, England · 2 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Nearly wild camping with acres of space hired on an exclusive basis
Pets
Campfires
from
£40
/ night
Small Trees Campsite
7. Small Trees Campsite
97%
(38)
West Wellow, England · 33 units · Tents, Motorhomes
A small, campfire-friendly and dog-friendly campsite with approachable hosts
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from
£12
/ night
Hollington Park Glamping
8. Hollington Park Glamping
95%
(11)
Woolton Hill, England · 6 units
Pod and bell tent glamping in woodland on the edge of the North Wessex Downs
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from
£105
/ night
The T Barn
9. The T Barn
99%
(90)
Cirencester, England · 17 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Bell tents and shepherd’s huts with hot tubs on a picturesque Cotswolds farm near Cirencester
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from
£29
/ night
Park Farm Campsite
10. Park Farm Campsite
98%
(24)
Malmesbury, England · 3 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Off-grid pitches on an organic farm – with a sauna on site
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from
£20
/ night
Cotswolds Camping
11. Cotswolds Camping
87%
(176)
Charlbury, England · 56 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Simple camping surrounded by all the delicious Oxfordshire and Cotswolds village food offerings
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from
£30
/ night
Penn Meadow Farm
12. Penn Meadow Farm
91%
(233)
Beaconsfield, England · 50 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Penn Meadow Farm is a beautiful 145 acre, family farm, nestled perfectly into the Chiltern Hills area of outstanding natural beauty. We’re just a 5 minute walk across our grassy fields to the oldest free-house pub in England (The Royal Standard of England)
Say hello to our resident alpacas, sheep, pigs, pigmy goats, flock of 250 sheep and of course our lovely boarder collies.
We aim to be a very relaxed spot to be able to rest for a few nights and maybe enjoying a nice camp fire in the evening.
The site includes;
Showers and Toilet block with toilet paper stocked.
Open family pitches for you to choose where you want to set up
Running drinking water
Shared open kitchen
Fires allowed
BBQ's allowed
To ensure everyone’s enjoyment and safety, please follow these rules:
Supervise children: Always supervise your children and ensure they do not wander off alone.
Clean up after yourself: Dispose of all waste properly in the designated bins and leave no trace behind. Wash any items you use and return them to where you found them.
Respect other campers: Be courteous to fellow campers and respect their privacy and space.
Pets: If you bring pets, ensure they are well-behaved, kept on a leash or have impeccable recall, and cleaned up after. Do not allow your pet to enter another camper's space.
Quiet time: Maintain quiet hours between 11pm and 7am. All music must stop by 10pm, and noise should be minimal after 11pm.
Campfires: Penn Meadow Farm allows fires; please use existing scorched areas if possible rather than creating new ones. Never leave any fires unattended and ensure they are completely extinguished when finished. Wipe your feet prior to entering the Bell tents to remove any coal that may have become attached.
Cars/vehicles: Cars and vehicles can be on the field but should move minimally and always under 5mph. Car stereos should not be used for music entertainment.
Drugs and Alcohol: Drug use is prohibited, and violators will be asked to leave. Consume alcohol responsibly, and do not drive or move your vehicle after consuming alcohol.
We do not typically book Large non-family groups unless they are seeking a calm and peaceful stay. These groups must have authorization prior to the visit.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from
£25
/ night
Old Litten
13. Old Litten
99%
(60)
Petersfield, England · 1 unit
Nestled atop a serene hill, this idyllic field offers a perfect escape for campers. Blanketed in lush, green grass, the field stretches out under a vast, clear sky, providing panoramic views of the South Downs National Park. Wildflowers in vibrant hues dot the landscape. As the sun goes down, the sky transforms into a canvas of twinkling stars, untouched by city lights. This remote haven, far from the hustle and bustle, is a sanctuary for those seeking tranquility and a deep connection with nature.
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from
£40
/ night
Beautiful hideaway, panoramic views
14. Beautiful hideaway, panoramic views
100%
(33)
Rake, England · 1 unit
The Shepherd's Hut at Coombe Farm Glamping is only an hour or so from London and within easy reach of Goodwood, Cowdray and the south coast; yet once you're here, you'll feel as if you've stepped through the back of the wardrobe and into the ancient woodland that surrounds, unimpeded views towards the South Downs and barely another soul around. The hut stands alone in the field, so you will exclusively enjoy the tranquility the land has to offer.
The Hut is equipped with fresh linen and towels, made extra cozy and warm with a beautiful flame and clean burning bio ethanol burner which creates a relaxed ambience, providing amazing heat for the chillier season stay.
The wash area is compact with everything you will need for alfresco catering and dining, including a great camp compressor fridge. We also provide equipment to cook on the ample fire pit for an authentic camp experience. We have a revitalizing, hot and spacious shower, all run from our off grid system. We also provide luxury toiletries.
Our loo is composting, extremely clean and freshly set up for every new guest and in keeping with our off grid, low-fi ethos.
Our family farm, Durleigh Marsh Farm is in Rogate, 5 min drive from Rake or about an hours walk through the woodland south from the hut. The popular Tea room offers a great breakfast and lunch menu. Booking is advisable.
Between the nearby traditional market towns of Petersfield and Haslemere you will discover a diverse choice of places to shop, dine and drink.
The site is encompassed by beautiful walks and trails taking you further into the heart of the South Downs.
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from
£108
/ night
Spring Hill Wild Camping
15. Spring Hill Wild Camping
97%
(86)
Andover, England · 15 units
Spring Hill Wild Camping is a camping site set in the beautiful Hampshire village of St Mary Bourne. Within easy walking distance of the two local pubs, the well stocked village shop and a pick-your-own fruit farm with cafe and play areas.
The campsite aims to be a low impact, environmentally friendly site, providing only the basic necessities for camping; well maintained toilets and clean water.
If you are looking for hot showers and a pool, this is not the campsite for you. If you are looking for beautiful views, countryside walks and open fires Spring Hill Wild Camping is the campsite for you.
Campfires
Potable water
from
£10
/ night
Huckleberry Farm
16. Huckleberry Farm
81%
(16)
Bletchingdon, England · 6 units · Tents, Glamping
A back-to-basics campsite that’s well placed for visiting Oxford and the Cotswolds
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from
£30
/ night
Cotswolds Camping at Holycombe
17. Cotswolds Camping at Holycombe
95%
(148)
Warwickshire, England · 14 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Think Countryfile meets Time Team. Camping in six-acres of unspoiled Cotswold countryside, built in the grounds of a Norman castle.
Campfires
Showers
Potable water
from
£14
/ night
Tom's Field (New Forest)
18. Tom's Field (New Forest)
99%
(44)
Fordingbridge, England · 40 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Small, family-run camping in the New Forest National Park, brought about by popular demand
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from
£35
/ night
Cotswolds Glamping
19. Cotswolds Glamping
100%
(6)
Chipping Norton, England · 4 units
Fun, laid-back, glamping that's ideal for groups, with silent discos and wood-fired hot tubs.
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from
£96
/ night
Wingbury Farm Glamping
20. Wingbury Farm Glamping
98%
(26)
Aylesbury, England · 3 units
Modern pod glamping with hot tubs in a quiet Buckinghamshire meadow
Showers
Campfires
Hot Tub
from
£160
/ night
94% (2K) • 1,340 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds in North Wessex Downs AONB
Woodlands Camping
1. Woodlands Camping
97%
(104)
Ropley, England · 10 units · Tents, Motorhomes
A back-to-basics campsite in the South Downs National Park
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from
£27
/ night
Radcot Leisure on Thames
2. Radcot Leisure on Thames
89%
(305)
Oxfordshire, England · 50 units · Tents, Glamping
A Thames’ island campsite in the Oxfordshire countryside – with a lovely pub just over the bridge
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from
£30
/ night
Stockbridge View Campsite
3. Stockbridge View Campsite
93%
(89)
Stockbridge, England · 62 units · Tents, Motorhomes
A simple campsite in the Test Valley, just a 15-minute walk from Stockbridge
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from
£20
/ night
Stowford Manor Farm Campsite
4. Stowford Manor Farm Campsite
87%
(39)
Trowbridge, England · 51 units
We are a family run farm situated in the beautiful Frome valley. The farm has a range of interests from the traditional Jersey milking cows to a community of workshops used by local craftsmen. The cafe serves cream teas from Easter to the end of September and pizzas are sold in evenings during the summer months.
Ours is a small family run camp site with the River Frome on one side, next to the medieval buildings of Stowford Farm. The river is suitable for fishing, boating, swimming and paddling. Historic Bradford-on-Avon is only a 5 minute drive and the City of Bath 15 minutes. For those who enjoy more rural pleasures, 200 metres from the campsite Farleigh Hungerford boasts the only river swimming club in the country, and you can become an instant member for a very small fee.
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from
£110
/ night
Teddy's Farm
5. Teddy's Farm
99%
(154)
Boldre, England · 95 units · Tents, Glamping
Family-friendly pop-up camping in the heart of the New Forest.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from
£12
/ night
Wild Camping in the Cotswolds
6. Wild Camping in the Cotswolds
100%
(57)
Aldsworth, England · 2 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Nearly wild camping with acres of space hired on an exclusive basis
Pets
Campfires
from
£40
/ night
Small Trees Campsite
7. Small Trees Campsite
97%
(38)
West Wellow, England · 33 units · Tents, Motorhomes
A small, campfire-friendly and dog-friendly campsite with approachable hosts
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from
£12
/ night
Hollington Park Glamping
8. Hollington Park Glamping
95%
(11)
Woolton Hill, England · 6 units
Pod and bell tent glamping in woodland on the edge of the North Wessex Downs
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from
£105
/ night
The T Barn
9. The T Barn
99%
(90)
Cirencester, England · 17 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Bell tents and shepherd’s huts with hot tubs on a picturesque Cotswolds farm near Cirencester
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from
£29
/ night
Park Farm Campsite
10. Park Farm Campsite
98%
(24)
Malmesbury, England · 3 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Off-grid pitches on an organic farm – with a sauna on site
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from
£20
/ night
Cotswolds Camping
11. Cotswolds Camping
87%
(176)
Charlbury, England · 56 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Simple camping surrounded by all the delicious Oxfordshire and Cotswolds village food offerings
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from
£30
/ night
Penn Meadow Farm
12. Penn Meadow Farm
91%
(233)
Beaconsfield, England · 50 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Penn Meadow Farm is a beautiful 145 acre, family farm, nestled perfectly into the Chiltern Hills area of outstanding natural beauty. We’re just a 5 minute walk across our grassy fields to the oldest free-house pub in England (The Royal Standard of England)
Say hello to our resident alpacas, sheep, pigs, pigmy goats, flock of 250 sheep and of course our lovely boarder collies.
We aim to be a very relaxed spot to be able to rest for a few nights and maybe enjoying a nice camp fire in the evening.
The site includes;
Showers and Toilet block with toilet paper stocked.
Open family pitches for you to choose where you want to set up
Running drinking water
Shared open kitchen
Fires allowed
BBQ's allowed
To ensure everyone’s enjoyment and safety, please follow these rules:
Supervise children: Always supervise your children and ensure they do not wander off alone.
Clean up after yourself: Dispose of all waste properly in the designated bins and leave no trace behind. Wash any items you use and return them to where you found them.
Respect other campers: Be courteous to fellow campers and respect their privacy and space.
Pets: If you bring pets, ensure they are well-behaved, kept on a leash or have impeccable recall, and cleaned up after. Do not allow your pet to enter another camper's space.
Quiet time: Maintain quiet hours between 11pm and 7am. All music must stop by 10pm, and noise should be minimal after 11pm.
Campfires: Penn Meadow Farm allows fires; please use existing scorched areas if possible rather than creating new ones. Never leave any fires unattended and ensure they are completely extinguished when finished. Wipe your feet prior to entering the Bell tents to remove any coal that may have become attached.
Cars/vehicles: Cars and vehicles can be on the field but should move minimally and always under 5mph. Car stereos should not be used for music entertainment.
Drugs and Alcohol: Drug use is prohibited, and violators will be asked to leave. Consume alcohol responsibly, and do not drive or move your vehicle after consuming alcohol.
We do not typically book Large non-family groups unless they are seeking a calm and peaceful stay. These groups must have authorization prior to the visit.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from
£25
/ night
Old Litten
13. Old Litten
99%
(60)
Petersfield, England · 1 unit
Nestled atop a serene hill, this idyllic field offers a perfect escape for campers. Blanketed in lush, green grass, the field stretches out under a vast, clear sky, providing panoramic views of the South Downs National Park. Wildflowers in vibrant hues dot the landscape. As the sun goes down, the sky transforms into a canvas of twinkling stars, untouched by city lights. This remote haven, far from the hustle and bustle, is a sanctuary for those seeking tranquility and a deep connection with nature.
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from
£40
/ night
Beautiful hideaway, panoramic views
14. Beautiful hideaway, panoramic views
100%
(33)
Rake, England · 1 unit
The Shepherd's Hut at Coombe Farm Glamping is only an hour or so from London and within easy reach of Goodwood, Cowdray and the south coast; yet once you're here, you'll feel as if you've stepped through the back of the wardrobe and into the ancient woodland that surrounds, unimpeded views towards the South Downs and barely another soul around. The hut stands alone in the field, so you will exclusively enjoy the tranquility the land has to offer.
The Hut is equipped with fresh linen and towels, made extra cozy and warm with a beautiful flame and clean burning bio ethanol burner which creates a relaxed ambience, providing amazing heat for the chillier season stay.
The wash area is compact with everything you will need for alfresco catering and dining, including a great camp compressor fridge. We also provide equipment to cook on the ample fire pit for an authentic camp experience. We have a revitalizing, hot and spacious shower, all run from our off grid system. We also provide luxury toiletries.
Our loo is composting, extremely clean and freshly set up for every new guest and in keeping with our off grid, low-fi ethos.
Our family farm, Durleigh Marsh Farm is in Rogate, 5 min drive from Rake or about an hours walk through the woodland south from the hut. The popular Tea room offers a great breakfast and lunch menu. Booking is advisable.
Between the nearby traditional market towns of Petersfield and Haslemere you will discover a diverse choice of places to shop, dine and drink.
The site is encompassed by beautiful walks and trails taking you further into the heart of the South Downs.
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from
£108
/ night
Spring Hill Wild Camping
15. Spring Hill Wild Camping
97%
(86)
Andover, England · 15 units
Spring Hill Wild Camping is a camping site set in the beautiful Hampshire village of St Mary Bourne. Within easy walking distance of the two local pubs, the well stocked village shop and a pick-your-own fruit farm with cafe and play areas.
The campsite aims to be a low impact, environmentally friendly site, providing only the basic necessities for camping; well maintained toilets and clean water.
If you are looking for hot showers and a pool, this is not the campsite for you. If you are looking for beautiful views, countryside walks and open fires Spring Hill Wild Camping is the campsite for you.
Campfires
Potable water
from
£10
/ night
Huckleberry Farm
16. Huckleberry Farm
81%
(16)
Bletchingdon, England · 6 units · Tents, Glamping
A back-to-basics campsite that’s well placed for visiting Oxford and the Cotswolds
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from
£30
/ night
Cotswolds Camping at Holycombe
17. Cotswolds Camping at Holycombe
95%
(148)
Warwickshire, England · 14 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Think Countryfile meets Time Team. Camping in six-acres of unspoiled Cotswold countryside, built in the grounds of a Norman castle.
Campfires
Showers
Potable water
from
£14
/ night
Tom's Field (New Forest)
18. Tom's Field (New Forest)
99%
(44)
Fordingbridge, England · 40 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Small, family-run camping in the New Forest National Park, brought about by popular demand
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from
£35
/ night
Cotswolds Glamping
19. Cotswolds Glamping
100%
(6)
Chipping Norton, England · 4 units
Fun, laid-back, glamping that's ideal for groups, with silent discos and wood-fired hot tubs.
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from
£96
/ night
Wingbury Farm Glamping
20. Wingbury Farm Glamping
98%
(26)
Aylesbury, England · 3 units
Modern pod glamping with hot tubs in a quiet Buckinghamshire meadow
Showers
Campfires
Hot Tub
from
£160
/ night
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
c
charley
December 2025
With pets
wow don't know where to start Sammy was so amazing it felt like home. gorgeous pwople. made us feel very welcome outstanding. wish didn't have to leave. hot tub was so amazing even in the cold Xmas nights. gorgeous. Sammy and Joanna have got everything to a t. just out standing and his brother was so great too.
See more
A
Andrea
November 2025
Tent
Easy to get on the pitches by ourselves and had the whole site for us, not surprising as it’s late November! Very quiet and loved it! We will be back again for the 3rd time
See more
A
Alex
November 2025
2 nights at Beautiful hideaway, panoramic views
We had a great stay! Would highly recommend.
Everything you need is there and the hut is so cosy and the beds super comfy. The views around are beautiful and it feels very secluded. Amazing walks straight from the hut! Thank you
See more
H
Hugh
November 2025
5 m Class B
Had a lovely stay at Peter and Celia’s farm. Despite the weather not being on my side the views were beautiful over rolling hills and woods.
Both Celia and Peter were very welcoming and helpful. I’d definitely stay again if I’m in the area
See more
S
Siubhan
November 2025
Tent
Amazing views over the hills with red kites, gorgeous horses in the next door field and really friendly sheep dogs. Gorgeous shower block which make you feel like you’re in a boutique hotel! 200m walk to fantastic pub with great food and fires. Can’t wait to go back
See more
C
Chris
November 2025
6 m Class B
With pets
Very nice and clean facilities! Lovely location. Highly Recommended
See more
O
Oscar
October 2025
Tent
Group trip
Charlotte’s land was a brilliant spot perfectly located with a beautiful view. Had everything we needed for our one night stay and we had a great time thanks to it.
See more
K
Katie
October 2025
Tent
I honestly couldn’t recommend this place enough it’s so gorgeous and secluded. The pitch areas are very well spaced out. Jay is also extremely lovely and helpful! The amenities are well maintained and easy to find all over the area. I will absolutely be returning again.
See more
I
Ian
October 2025
Tent
With pets
What an incredible find!
Lovely views, lovely people nearby and the host was so friendly and welcoming.
We will absolutely be back!
See more
H
Harry
October 2025
Tent
A great camp and we would definitely stay here again!
See more
G
Geert
October 2025
Tent
A truly beautiful place to stay – so charming and full of character. And then there’s Charlotte, the hostess: such a warm and welcoming person, with a genuine passion that shines through in her wonderful camper spot. The surrounding region is perfect for both walking and gravel riding. For food and drinks, head to the pub just around the corner (“The Pub with No Name” aka The White Horse). It’s incredibly authentic and serves excellent cuisine.
See more
Abbie
October 2025
5 m car
With pets
What an amazing place! Thanks so much for having us. Cant tell you how relaxing it was having space for our dog to run about off lead, she LOVED it. Views are incredible too!
See more
C
Caro
October 2025
Tent
Site was great, bare minimum and eco-friendly which we loved. Unfortunately weather got the best of us and we left a day early since it was only our first time camping.
Saw lots of Pheasants and heard them running outside our tent in the morning which was wonderful, host was great and incredibly helpful too.
See more
A
Andrew
October 2025
Tent
Excellent spot. Big field with individual plots, most had benches. Excellent pub a short walk down the hill.
See more
T
Ty
October 2025
Tent
Great views, simple back to basic's camping. Friendly host, would highly recommend
See more
R
Richard
October 2025
2 nights at Beautiful hideaway, panoramic views
Off grid, basic and rustic shepards hut. Very relaxing, and comfortable,
Excellent communication from Alice on finding the feild and lots of good information about the local area.
Really enjoyed my time here.
See more
V
Victoria
October 2025
5 m Class B
What an amazing spot in nature! This was an incredible getaway, such a quiet and natural space with birds, surrounded by trees and the very nearby woodlands which are covered in mushrooms, more than we could count! It was so peaceful, we loved the natural space and eco-friendly touches. We definitely want to return again! It was magical!
See more
A
Abi
October 2025
5 m car
Really great site. Managed really well. Amazing spot in the woods and plenty of space between yourself and other campers.
Firepits are provided and you can buy wood for fires if you need.
There are some great walks nearby and plenty of stargazing!
Would really recommend this site. Had a really wonderful weekend here.
(There is a closing time of 7pm which is to be aware of and not being able to enter after that point so just something to be aware if traffic or travelling far after work.)
The toilets, eco and flushing, were really good. Didn't use the showers so cant say!
See more
F
Fatima
October 2025
Weekend Trip to Huckleberry Farm
Our getaway to Huckleberry Farm was a gift for my husband’s birthday. Everything from start to finish was really organised and fun. Met all of our expectations. Charlotte and everyone on site were really helpful and sweet. We enjoyed horse riding and seeing the guinea pigs. We stayed in the shepherd’s hut, a clean and well maintained space that felt like home for the night. All in all a wonderful experience. Completely recommend! Thank you Charlotte and everyone at Huckleberry Farm for having Ali & I. Looking back to visiting again sometime soon!
See more
K
Katie
October 2025
Tent
The space is really beautiful and the views are great. It has very basic amenities but it’s the kind of place I like. Being next door to the animals was also a great and entertaining bonus. It’s a short walk to the local village entirely down forest paths if you wish, with a fantastic pub.
It’s a particularly nice place to stay out of season when the autumn colours settle in.
See more
Camping in North Wessex Downs AONB guide
Where to go
Wiltshire
Most of the North Wessex Downs lie within Wiltshire, where you can hike, cycle, or horseback ride across open chalklands. Visit the UNESCO-listed Avebury stone circle, explore the Great West Way heritage trail, or marvel at the Wiltshire White Horses, giant chalk drawings etched onto the hillsides. To the south, the world-famous Stonehenge is an easy detour, and there are more hiking opportunities in the surrounding Salisbury Plains.
Hampshire
Downton Abbey fans won’t want to miss a visit to Highclere Castle—the real-life Downton Abbey—in the southeast corner of North Wessex Downs. Explore the surrounding farmlands by bike, stop off at pretty Hampshire villages, or stay at quiet country campgrounds. To the south, the cathedral city of Winchester and the New Forest National Park are less than an hour’s drive.
Berkshire
Newbury and Reading are the gateways to the eastern downlands, where the hillside towns are dotted with thatched-roof cottages and traditional pubs. Take a leisurely boat cruise along the Kent & Avon Canal, stop to browse the markets in Hungerford, or hike the 20-mile Lambourn Valley Way.
Oxfordshire
The northern borders of the North Wessex Downs spill over into Oxfordshire, where highlights include the market town of Wantage and the Uffington White Horse. Continue north to visit the university city of Oxford or take a road trip along the winding country lanes of the Cotswolds, another AONB.