The North Wessex Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is all about chalk – more specifically, the magnificent sweeps of chalk downlands north of Salisbury. These gently rolling hills and undulating farmland, studded with picturesque villages, are mesmerizing. The AONB runs from Goring Gap to the east and incorporates the chalky uplands of the Marlborough, Berkshire and North Hampshire Downs, running west to the White Horse Vale. This is the third largest AONB, covering 668 square miles and running across parts of Oxfordshire, Wiltshire, Hampshire and Berkshire.
Chalk streams are a prized feature here, with England accounting for 85% of the world’s total. The filtering effect of chalk ensures clear waters and a perfect habitat for water voles. Chalk grassland – traditionally popular for sheep farming – is less extensive today, and there are wooded plateaux, vales and river valleys to complete the rural idyll. Sarsen stones form the great stone circle, and the famous avenue at Avebury and Fyfield Down is a big attraction for visitors.
Top North Wessex Downs AONB Camping Options
Postern Hill Camping in the Forest site is in the ancient Savernake Forest, surrounded by a network of tracks and paths. Completely immersed in the woodlands with lush, flat green pitches, Postern Hill is a special place for anyone. It is rich in everything ecological from grand and ancient trees to a rich array of flora and fauna. The forest surrounding the site has been awarded with Site of Special Scientific Interest status due to the diversity of wildlife and plants found within the land. Hugged by the tree-lined boundaries yet spread spaciously through the site are some of the most beautiful pitches in Wiltshire. Each spot feels like it has been taken straight out of a secret garden, whether carved into the bushes or overlooked by the site’s many ancient oak trees, and all provide more than a glimpse of serenity. Please note that there are no showers at this site. The site has 170 grass pitches (some seasonal) and most have 10 amp electric hook-up point.
Blackland Lakes was established in 1984 and is situated in beautiful countryside close to the Marlborough Downs. The 15 acres comprise 7 small, tree-lined paddocks and 3 small lakes: 2 for coarse fishing and 1 as a nature reserve for wildfowl. There are 180 pitches for caravans and tents, 130 with electricity and 15 hardstanding ‘super pitches’ with all main services. Modern, log cabin style buildings house the reception, small shop and the usual sanitary facilities. Sam's Bar on site offers alcoholic drinks as well as pizzas. Fishing is understandably popular here, and the lakes are well stocked with carp, roach, tench, perch and others.
Devizes Camping & Caravanning Club site is a lovely peaceful and secluded retreat in the heart of Wiltshire. It is adjacent to the Kennet and Avon Canal (opened in 1810) and the towpath now provides a traffic-free route passing the Caen Hill flight of 29 locks into Devizes (4 miles) so ideal for walkers and cyclists. In the other direction the towpath runs towards Melksham (also 4 miles). Centrally located for visiting many places of interest such as Stonehenge and Avebury. The site occupies a level field with gravel roads and centrally located facilities. There are a total of 115 pitches, 82 hardstanding and 33 grass pitches, 105 with 16A electricity, 1 fully serviced pitch. There are also 3 ready camp tents to rent.
