Things to do in Melksham, Wiltshire

Discover the charm and beauty of Melksham, a picturesque town located in the heart of Wiltshire, England. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and breathtaking countryside, Melksham offers a unique and memorable experience for visitors. Explore the historic landmarks, immerse yourself in the local culture, and indulge in the delicious food and drink. Whether you're interested in history, nature, or simply relaxing in a tranquil setting, Melksham has something for everyone.

Things to do

Visit Lacock Abbey

Lacock Abbey is a stunning country house located near Melksham. It was founded in the 13th century as a nunnery and later converted into a family home. The abbey is known for its beautiful architecture, picturesque gardens, and rich history. Visitors can explore the abbey's rooms, including the medieval cloisters and the Great Hall. The abbey also houses a museum that showcases the history of photography, as it was once the home of William Henry Fox Talbot, a pioneer in the field. Don't forget to take a stroll in the abbey's gardens, which offer a peaceful and scenic retreat.

Discover the beauty of Bowood House and Gardens

Bowood House and Gardens is a magnificent stately home located near Melksham. The house dates back to the 18th century and is surrounded by stunning landscaped gardens. Visitors can explore the grand rooms of the house, which are filled with exquisite furniture, artwork, and historical artifacts. The gardens at Bowood are a true delight, with beautiful flower beds, manicured lawns, and peaceful lakes. There are also woodland walks and a picturesque lake where visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll. Don't miss the adventure playground and soft play area, which are perfect for families with children.

Take a walk along the Kennet and Avon Canal

The Kennet and Avon Canal is a scenic waterway that passes through Melksham. Taking a walk along the canal is a great way to enjoy the beautiful countryside and relax in nature. The canal stretches for 87 miles and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. You can stroll along the towpath, watch the narrowboats pass by, and even try your hand at operating the locks. There are also several charming pubs and cafes along the canal where you can stop for a refreshing drink or a delicious meal. Don't forget to bring your camera to capture the picturesque scenes along the way.

Explore the historic town of Bradford-on-Avon

Located just a short distance from Melksham, Bradford-on-Avon is a charming historic town that is well worth a visit. The town is known for its beautifully preserved medieval buildings, including the stunning Saxon Church of St. Laurence and the 14th-century Tithe Barn. Take a leisurely stroll along the town's picturesque streets, lined with quaint shops, cafes, and pubs. Don't miss the chance to visit the Bradford-on-Avon Museum, which provides fascinating insights into the town's history. If you're feeling adventurous, you can also hire a boat and explore the Kennet and Avon Canal that runs through the town.

Visit the picturesque village of Lacock

Lacock is a picturesque village located near Melksham. It is known for its well-preserved medieval buildings, charming streets, and beautiful countryside. Take a leisurely stroll through the village and admire the historic architecture, including the 14th-century Lacock Abbey. The village has been used as a filming location for several movies and TV shows, including Harry Potter and Downton Abbey, adding to its charm. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the Lacock Pottery, where you can see traditional pottery being made by skilled craftsmen. There are also several cozy pubs and tea rooms where you can relax and enjoy a traditional British meal.

Enjoy a day out at Longleat Safari Park

Longleat Safari Park is a fantastic family attraction located near Melksham. It is home to a wide variety of animals, including lions, tigers, giraffes, and monkeys. Visitors can drive through the safari park and observe the animals up close from the comfort of their own car. There are also several walk-through animal enclosures, where you can get even closer to the wildlife. In addition to the safari, Longleat offers other attractions such as the Adventure Park, which features rides and play areas for children, and the stunning Longleat House, which is open for tours. It's a fun-filled day out for the whole family.

Discover the beauty of Westwood Manor

Westwood Manor is a beautiful historic house located near Melksham. It dates back to the late 15th century and is known for its stunning architecture and well-preserved interiors. Visitors can explore the house and admire the intricate woodwork, original plaster ceilings, and beautiful tapestries. The gardens at Westwood Manor are also worth a visit, with their manicured lawns, colorful flower beds, and peaceful atmosphere. The manor is surrounded by picturesque countryside, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely walk or a picnic. Don't forget to check the opening times before your visit, as the manor is only open on certain days.

Visit the historic town of Devizes

Devizes is a historic market town located near Melksham. The town is known for its well-preserved medieval buildings, including the impressive Devizes Castle, which dates back to the 11th century. Take a walk along the town's charming streets and explore the local shops, cafes, and pubs. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the Wadworth Brewery, where you can take a guided tour and learn about the brewing process. Devizes is also home to the famous Caen Hill Locks, a flight of 29 locks on the Kennet and Avon Canal. You can take a leisurely walk along the towpath and admire this impressive feat of engineering.

Explore the beautiful countryside of the Cotswolds

The Cotswolds is a picturesque region located near Melksham, known for its rolling hills, charming villages, and beautiful countryside. Take a drive through the Cotswolds and admire the stunning landscapes, dotted with honey-colored stone cottages and historic churches. Stop by the village of Castle Combe, often referred to as the 'prettiest village in England', and explore its quaint streets and picturesque cottages. Don't miss the chance to visit the Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens, where you can see a wide variety of animals and enjoy the beautiful gardens. The Cotswolds is also a great place for outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and horse riding.

Visit the historic city of Bath

Bath is a historic city located within easy reach of Melksham. The city is famous for its Roman-built baths, which are among the best-preserved Roman remains in the world. Take a tour of the Roman Baths and learn about the city's ancient history. Don't miss the chance to visit the stunning Bath Abbey, with its beautiful stained glass windows and impressive architecture. Bath is also known for its Georgian architecture, particularly the Royal Crescent and the Circus. Take a leisurely stroll along the city's elegant streets and explore the local shops, cafes, and restaurants. Bath is also home to several museums and art galleries, including the famous Victoria Art Gallery.