Attractions and Places To See around Hankerton - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Hankerton include historical landmarks and natural features within a rural setting. This small Wiltshire village, mentioned in the Domesday Book, offers a glimpse into continuous human habitation since the Bronze Age. The parish is characterized by streams like Braydon Brook and Swill Brook, and surrounded by countryside with footpaths and bridleways. While Hankerton itself is dispersed, the surrounding region provides a variety of attractions for exploration.
Best attractions and places to see around…
Last updated: July 6, 2026
Malmesbury Market Cross and Abbey
Highlight • Religious Site
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Fosse Way Roman Road
Highlight (Segment) • Historical Site
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NCN Route 45: South Cerney to Cricklade
Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway
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Valley Byway Through The Cotswolds
Highlight • Forest
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Steps Lane Bridleway
Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway
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Tips from the Community
Mostly Flat Path Comprising of Combination Of Gravel, Tarmac,
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The woods bit is always great, but the second bit around the fields can get muddy in winter and overgrown in summer. Spring is your best bet.
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The bridleway is called Steps Lane and runs through the Gatcombe Estate. The steep bit of the climb at the bottom is mainly tarmac and then 50m of steep rough stuff then fairly flat. The track going up leads towards Minchinhampton Common which has some excellent riding.
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Ancient Roman Road, The Fosse Way is an excellent single track path with road sections, I rode this route on the day of Storm Eunice in Feb 2022, it was gnarly but afforded a lot of shelter from the crazy winds we we're heading directly into, the trees however were a constant worry, but it seemed most of the falls had already happened earlier in the morning or perhaps the previous night. This rout is amazing and apart from a short stint on the road you can cycle from the Cirencester YHA to the Bath YHA along the Fosse. Beautiful track, good scenery, and an interesting history. The Salutation Inn is the only stopping place for food and drink, so I'd suggest a stop there if you need it, nice pub by all accounts.
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Good going in the dry, not bad in the wet, experienced this track the day before storm Eunice hit in March 2022, wet and winder but surface we fantastic. Part of an old disused railway that is slowly being brought back into use, some sections of the cycle path were closed due to works being carried out on restoring the old line so be aware if you plan to use this route. https://swindon-cricklade-railway.org
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Nice off-road route from Minch to Avening avoiding the main road. Suitable for mountain bikes and gravel bikes. (Photo is from https://www.geograph.org.uk/photo/2914946 CC licensed)
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"Malmesbury (/ˈmɑː(l)mzbəri/) is a town and civil parish in Wiltshire, England. As a market town it became prominent in the Middle Ages as a centre for learning focused on and around Malmesbury Abbey, the bulk of which forms a rare survival of the dissolution of the monasteries. Once the site of an Iron Age fort, in the early medieval period it became the site of a monastery famed for its learning and one of Alfred the Great's fortified burhs for defence against the Vikings. Æthelstan, the first king of all England, was buried in Malmesbury Abbey when he died in 939." Cit. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Malmesbury
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical landmarks can I explore within Hankerton village itself?
Within Hankerton, you can visit the Church of the Holy Cross, a Grade II* listed parish church with sections dating back to the late 12th century. Another significant historical building is Cloatley Manor Farmhouse, which has a 15th-century core. The village also has a former Strict Baptist Chapel, built in 1837, which is now a private residence. Hankerton's history stretches back to the Bronze Age and it was mentioned in the Domesday Book of 1086.
Are there significant historical sites beyond Hankerton village?
Yes, just a short distance from Hankerton, you can explore the historic market town of Malmesbury. Its main attraction is Malmesbury Market Cross and Abbey, a prominent medieval center for learning. Another notable historical site is the Fosse Way Roman Road, an ancient route offering a unique cycling experience with a dramatic ford crossing.
What kind of outdoor activities are available around Hankerton?
The area around Hankerton is excellent for various outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for gravel biking, mountain biking, and running. For example, there are several gravel biking routes, including loops that incorporate the Fosse Way. Mountain bikers can explore MTB trails like the Tetbury Loop, and runners have options for running trails around Minety and Crudwell.
Are there specific cycling routes recommended near Hankerton?
Absolutely. Cyclists can enjoy the Fosse Way Roman Road, a great gravel track suitable for various bikes, with sections forming a route from Kemble to Bath. Another option is Steps Lane Bridleway, an intermediate off-road route from Minch to Avening, ideal for mountain and gravel bikes. The NCN Route 45: South Cerney to Cricklade also offers a lovely, leafy, and level ride along an old railway line.
Where can I find walking trails with scenic views around Hankerton?
Hankerton is surrounded by scenic countryside with rolling hills and fields, offering numerous footpaths and bridleways. The Braydon Brook and Swill Brook flow through the parish, and the nearby River Avon provides picturesque settings for walks. These areas are perfect for exploring the natural environment and enjoying tranquil views.
Are there any natural areas of ecological importance nearby?
Yes, within the Hankerton parish, Cloatley Manor Farm Meadows is recognized as a biological Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), highlighting its ecological significance and natural beauty.
Are there family-friendly attractions or activities around Hankerton?
The nearby town of Malmesbury, with its Market Cross and Abbey, is considered family-friendly. It offers a charming environment with independent shops and cafes that families can enjoy. The surrounding countryside also provides ample opportunities for family walks and exploring nature on footpaths and bridleways.
What is the best time of year to visit Hankerton for outdoor activities?
The best time to visit Hankerton for outdoor activities is generally during the spring, summer, and early autumn months. These seasons offer milder weather, making walking, cycling, and exploring the countryside more enjoyable. Some trails, particularly in wooded sections, can become very muddy and challenging to navigate in winter.
Are there places to eat or drink near the attractions?
Yes, particularly in the nearby market town of Malmesbury. Visitors to Malmesbury Market Cross and Abbey will find a wide choice of independent shops, cafes, and bakeries. Specific recommendations include The Summer Café and The Birdcage, offering various dining options.
How can I explore the countryside around Hankerton?
The countryside around Hankerton is crisscrossed with numerous public footpaths and bridleways. These routes allow you to explore the rolling hills, fields, and riverbanks of the Braydon Brook, Swill Brook, and River Avon. It's an ideal way to experience the rural English landscape.
What are the terrain and difficulty levels of trails around Hankerton?
Trails around Hankerton vary. The Fosse Way Roman Road is primarily a gravel track, manageable on road bikes with wider tires, though it includes stream crossings. Steps Lane Bridleway is an intermediate off-road route suitable for mountain and gravel bikes, with some challenging ascents if ridden in reverse. Many local footpaths are generally easy to moderate, traversing fields and rural lanes.
Are there dog-friendly walking options in the area?
Yes, the numerous footpaths and bridleways throughout the Hankerton countryside are generally dog-friendly, offering plenty of space for walks. Always ensure dogs are kept under control, especially near livestock, and follow local signage regarding leash requirements.
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