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Situated in south-west Wiltshire, the historic market town of Westbury has the unique distinction of resting at the foot of the spectacular ancient escarpment carving known as the Westbury White Horse, the oldest and largest in the whole of Britain. First-time visitors to Westbury with an adventurous, outdoorsman's mindset will jump at the opportunity to explore the open, unspoilt Wiltshire countryside. So make the trip to Westbury in southwest Wiltshire this holiday season and see the majesty of the White Horse for yourself.
Westbury History
Human settlement of the area today known as Westbury originated as early as the Iron Age, according to extensive archaeological surveys of the county. The Romans occupied Westbury for a period of time as well, but during the reign of the Saxon king Alfred the Great, Westbury was chosen as the site of the escarpment carving, commissioned in honour of the king's victory over the Danes.
Several such monuments were carved into hills throughout the region, but Westbury is the site of the largest and oldest of these ancient landmarks that remain to this very day. As a market town, Westbury thrived in the 13th century when the town was granted its first market charter, and Westbury continued to prosper throughout the following centuries well beyond the medieval period. Today, Westbury has managed to regain the town's natural pastoral appeal to first-time visitors, a testament to the town's rural heritage.
Westbury Countryside
Westbury still puts on a regular market days throughout the year, especially during the peak travel months of the spring and the summer. The historic high street contains the usual lot of artisan shops adjacent to other well-known retailers, but aside from days out in the market, the main attraction in Westbury is the natural beauty of the town's surrounds.
Easily viewed from the north of town, the Westbury White Horse rests on the slopes of an escarpment in the Salisbury Plain. Above the White Horse, first-time visitors will discover the ruins of an ancient Iron Age fortification named Bratton Camp. Also, west of town centre, Brokerswood County Park is well suited for family-friendly time with plenty of activities to fill out the day.
Westbury Travel
Westbury is well served by the railway, which makes travel by train ideal for first-time visitors. The town is rather pedestrian-friendly, and many railway lines pass through town such as the Wessex Main Line, the London Waterloo to Bristol Line and the Heart of Wessex Line, as well.
For motoring directions to Westbury, follow the M4 west away from greater London to the number 17 junction and travel south along the A350. Westbury proper lies a short distance south of Trowbridge amongst the downland.
Westbury Places to Stay
Once in Westbury proper, you will find several accommodations from which to choose scattered throughout town centre. In parts of town further afield, you will find several highly-rated bed and breakfasts, and first-time travellers interested in camping will find a choice caravanning site near Brokerswood west of town, as well.
Accommodation in Westbury
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