Bratton Camp and White Horse
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The original Iron Age hillfort defences were built at Bratton Camp over 2000 years ago. These earthworks protected a settlement containing round houses, granaries, stores and workshops. The design and construction showed the effectiveness of the hillfort to its enemies. The site was excavated in the 18th century. However, three thousand years earlier a Neolithic long barrow existed on this hill, and later excavations in the 19th century uncovered human skeletons and cremations. Today, this extensive chalk grassland supports herb and grass species that provide a habitat for a diverse range of insects, including the rare Adonis Blue butterfly and the scarce forester moth. The White Horse is visible from afar and is a famous local landscape. Local records suggest that the horse was originally cut in the late 1600s, probably to commemorate the supposed Battle of Ethandun, thought to have taken place at Bratton Camp in AD 878. Read more about the history of Bratton Camp and White Horse. Before You Go Parking: There is a large free car park adjacent to the hillfort. Access: There are steep slopes and uneven ground so strong footwear is recommended. Group Visits: The access roads are narrow and not suitable for coaches. Facilities: Nearby Westbury has shops, toilets and places to eat and drink. Dogs: Sheep graze regularly on this site and may not always be visible, so please keep your dog on a lead. Plan a Great Day Out Bratton Camp is a great spot for a picnic, and the perfect place for flying a kite. There is plenty of space for children to play and run around, and there are fantastic views over the surrounding Wiltshire countryside. Continue your exploration of England's Neolithic and Bronze Age past at Stonehenge, which is a 30 minute drive away from Bratton Camp. Explore the ancient landscape that surrounds the stones and visit the world-class visitor centre. Towards Bath you'll find the fascinating remains of Farleigh Hungerford Castle. Explore the ruins of the castle and its chapel, take the audio tour and pick up a souvenir in the well-stocked gift shop. Opening Times 30 April 2017 - 24 March 2018 Open any reasonable time during daylight hours 25 March 2018 onwards Opening times will be available nearer the time | |||||||||||||||||||||||