Things to do in the Chalke Valley & Wiltshire
Walks, pubs, dark skies, and plenty to see within easy reach of our glamping site
One of the best things about glamping at Chalke Valley Camping is what's on your doorstep. From walks along ancient drovers' roads to stargazing under some of the darkest skies in southern England, there's plenty to fill a long weekend in this part of Wiltshire.
Cranborne Chase AONB
A valley worth exploring
Our site is located near Bowerchalke, a pretty meandering village with a church, village hall, and cricket pitch with new pavilion. On the second Saturday of the month there is a market in the village hall, run by volunteers, which supplies home-made and home grown fare (cakes, bread and pastries, vegetables and salad, soups, conserves, locally produced meats, trout from the trout farm in the village, etc.) They do good coffee and breakfast too, and the Truckle Truck cheese van is parked outside.
The neighbouring village of Broadchalke has a good pub, an excellent shop stocking local produce and incorporating a cafe and post office. There are also watercress beds, where you can buy fresh watercress and free range eggs at any time of day.
There is a good selection of traditional pubs right down the valley and in the surrounding area. A beautiful walk over farmland and footpaths leads to the Horseshoe Inn, which specialises in traditional ales and hearty food.
Further afield
Day trips and adventures
Salisbury
A visit to Salisbury is a must with its magnificent cathedral and close, and its many shops, cafes and restaurants. A bus service operates from Bowerchalke to Salisbury.
The Jurassic Coast
The famous Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove, the seaside town of Weymouth, and miles of stunning Dorset coastline are all within an hour's drive.
Days out
Stonehenge, Longleat House and Wildlife Park, the seaside town of Weymouth, Cheddar Gorge and Wookey Hole caves, and attractions such as Bovington Tank Museum and Monkey World, all within an hour's drive.
Local events during the summer months include The Chalke Valley History Festival, and the Shaftesbury and Gillingham Show.
The Cranborne Chase is the UK's first designated International Dark Sky Reserve. On a clear night, the Milky Way is visible to the naked eye from the campsite. See tonight's stargazing forecast.
We are also proud that our site is one of the few truly off-grid glamping sites in the south west, perfect if you're looking for a digital-detox retreat or simply for comfortable camping.
Explore
What to See
Historic landmarks, stunning coastline, and beautiful gardens are all within easy reach.
Gold Hill
Located in the small town of Shaftesbury, it is often described as 'one of the most romantic sights in England'. Made famous from the much loved 1973 Hovis advert and its quintessential English view.
Stonehenge
A landmark that needs no introduction - Stonehenge is perhaps the world's most famous prehistoric monument. A sunrise visit without the crowds is definitely recommended.
Avebury
Avebury Henge and Stone Circle, a neolithic monument containing the largest stone circle in Europe is certainly worth a visit. The museum is also excellent, containing one of the most archaeologically significant prehistoric collections in Britain.
Stourhead and Gardens
Some of the most beautiful neo-classical gardens in Britain, a Palladian mansion, and numerous temples - a day trip to the Stourhead Estate is a must.
Longleat Safari Park
Opened in 1966 as the first drive through safari park outside Africa, Longleat is one of the most enjoyable family days out. A tour around the Elizabethan mansion, and getting lost in the largest hedge maze in Britain are also recommended.
Durdle Door
Durdle Door is probably the most famous stone arch anywhere in the world. It is also worth making the drive from Chalke Valley for a walk along the beautiful Dorset Jurassic coast. The King Charles III England Coast Path now runs along this stretch, making it easier than ever to explore.
Activities
What to Do
From countryside walks to stargazing under some of the darkest skies in England.
Walking & Cycling
The Cranborne Chase is criss-crossed with public footpaths and bridleways. The site is close to the Ox Drove, a historic drovers road that makes for excellent walking and cycling.
Stargazing
The Cranborne Chase is the UK's first designated International Dark Sky Reserve. On a clear night, the Milky Way is visible to the naked eye from the campsite.
Fishing
The River Ebble runs through the valley. Day permits for trout fishing can be arranged locally.
Food & Drink
Eat & Drink
Excellent pubs and restaurants within walking distance or a short drive.
The Horseshoe Inn
A thirty minute walk along footpaths from Chalke Valley, this excellent pub offers hearty lunches and traditional ales.
The Museum Inn
A short drive from Chalke Valley, this traditional pub is well known for its high quality of ingredients and cooking.
The Queen's Head
Under new management since 2023, the Queen's Head offers excellent food and drink. It's a 3 mile walk along country roads from Chalke Valley.
Ready to explore?
Book your glamping break in the Chalke Valley and discover everything Wiltshire has to offer.
Questions?
Get in touch and we will get back to you as quickly as possible.