Top 9 Natural Monuments around Stanton Fitzwarren
Best natural monuments around Stanton Fitzwarren encompass a landscape rich in natural beauty and historical significance. The area features diverse habitats, including ancient woodlands, open spaces, and bodies of water, supporting a variety of wildlife. These natural sites offer numerous footpaths for exploration and provide opportunities to observe local flora and fauna. The region combines natural attractions with points of historical interest, making it a varied destination for outdoor activities.
Best natural monuments around Stanton Fitzwarren
- The most popular natural…
Last updated: June 30, 2026
Coate Water Lake and Diving Platform
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Badbury Clump Bluebell Woods
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Liddington Castle Hillfort
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Cheese Wharf Wild Swimming Spot
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Jubilee Sundial and Obelisk
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Fashioned of Portland stone and green slate by Fergus Wessel of Stone Workshop and mounted …
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Tips from the Community
A walk around the lake is always pleasant. Can be quite muddy at the top end in the winter/ when wet.
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Badbury Hill is home to the Iron Age Badbury Camp, a circular hill fort partially leveled in the 19th century. It’s thought to be a possible site of the Battle of Mons Badonicus. The hill also has a WWII firing range on its west side. Today, Badbury Clump, a nine-acre wooded area, is known for its bluebells in May and is a popular spot for walkers and dog owners. It’s now managed by the National Trust.
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Fashioned of Portland stone and green slate by Fergus Wessel of Stone Workshop and mounted atop a hexagonal pyramid, the 16.4-foot-tall obelisk features one gold-plated bronze pointer on each side. Wavy incised and gilded lines mark the hours and quarter hours, and encircling the obelisk are engraved hieroglyphics that spell, among other things, Queen, Elizabeth, and Eternity—the sundial being Lord Faringdon’s tribute to the British monarch’s 50 years on the throne. Additional smaller obelisks stand around the central example, giving the effect of a mini Valley of the Kings in the middle of bucolic Oxfordshire. Source: architecturaldigest.com
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Willow, ash and birch can all be found in the park's woodlands, with oak trees on higher ground. A fantastic park with nature trails, bird hides and family activities, this is a lovely place to walk through or simply visit. There are also good facilities, a cafe and BBQ hire.
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Taking its name from the place where delicious cheese were once loaded onto boats for shipping to London, Cheese Wharf is now a brilliant wild swimming spot on the River Thames near Buscot. It's owned by the National Trust and there are a couple of parking spaces nearby.
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Liddington Castle is a hillfort that dates to the late Bronze Age or early Iron Age. Historians believe the site was first occupied in the 7th century BC, making it one of the earliest hill forts in the UK. Standing at 909 feet (277 m), the summit is the highest point in the Borough of Swindon and affords terrific views.
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Large and very beautiful landscape park in the southwest of Swindon
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Obelisk/Sundial created by Sir Mark Lennox-Boyd to commemorate the Diamond Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II. Fashioned of Portland stone and green slate by Fergus Wessel of Stone Workshop and mounted atop a hexagonal pyramid, the 16.4-foot-tall obelisk features one gold-plated bronze pointer on each side. Wavy incised and gilded lines mark the hours and quarter hours, and encircling the obelisk are engraved hieroglyphics that spell, among other things, Queen, Elizabeth, and Eternity—the sundial being Lord Faringdon’s tribute to the British monarch’s 50 years on the throne. Additional smaller obelisks stand around the central example, giving the effect of a mini Valley of the Kings in the middle of bucolic Oxfordshire. https://www.architecturaldigest.com/story/sir-mark-lennox-boyd-sundials
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural features can I expect to see around Stanton Fitzwarren?
The area around Stanton Fitzwarren is rich in natural beauty, featuring diverse habitats such as ancient woodlands, open green spaces, lakes, ponds, and streams. You can explore places like Coate Water Lake and Diving Platform with its woodlands of willow, ash, and birch, or the enchanting Badbury Clump Bluebell Woods, known for its vibrant bluebells in May.
Are there historical sites among the natural monuments in Stanton Fitzwarren?
Yes, several natural monuments in the area also hold significant historical value. For instance, Badbury Clump Bluebell Woods is home to the Iron Age Badbury Camp hill fort. Additionally, Liddington Castle Hillfort, dating back to the late Bronze Age or early Iron Age, offers both historical insights and extensive views as the highest point in the Borough of Swindon.
What are some family-friendly natural monuments in the area?
For families, Coate Water Lake and Diving Platform is an excellent choice. It offers nature trails, bird hides, and facilities including a cafe and BBQ hire. Badbury Clump Bluebell Woods is also popular with families, especially in May when the bluebells are in bloom.
Can I go wild swimming near Stanton Fitzwarren?
Yes, you can find a wild swimming spot at Cheese Wharf Wild Swimming Spot on the River Thames near Buscot. This National Trust-owned location offers a refreshing experience, with parking available nearby.
What kind of wildlife can I observe in the natural monuments around Stanton Fitzwarren?
Stanton Country Park, a prominent natural reserve, supports a rich variety of wildlife. You might spot birds of prey, owls, bats, and larger mammals like roe deer, foxes, and badgers. Over 900 species of fungi have also been recorded, and the woodlands are vibrant with wildflowers, attracting butterflies and bees.
Are there walking trails suitable for beginners or easy walks?
Many of the natural monuments offer well-marked trails suitable for various fitness levels. Stanton Country Park, for example, has numerous footpaths for easy walking and exploring. Coate Water Lake and Diving Platform also features nature trails that are generally accessible.
What outdoor activities can I do near these natural monuments?
Beyond exploring the natural monuments themselves, the region offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for road cycling, mountain biking, and running. For more details on specific trails, check out the guides for Road Cycling Routes around Stanton Fitzwarren, MTB Trails around Stanton Fitzwarren, and Running Trails around Stanton Fitzwarren.
Is parking available at the natural monuments?
Yes, for many locations, parking is available. Stanton Country Park offers free parking. For Cheese Wharf Wild Swimming Spot, there are a couple of parking spaces nearby. It's always advisable to check specific location details for parking availability.
Are dogs allowed in the natural monuments?
Many natural areas around Stanton Fitzwarren are dog-friendly. Stanton Country Park welcomes dog walkers. When visiting, please ensure dogs are kept under control, especially in areas with wildlife or livestock, and always clean up after your pet.
When is the best time to visit to see bluebells?
The best time to visit to witness the bluebells in full bloom is typically in May. Badbury Clump Bluebell Woods is particularly renowned for its spectacular display during this month.
Are there cafes or facilities near the natural monuments?
Yes, some natural monuments offer facilities. Coate Water Lake and Diving Platform has a cafe and other facilities. Stanton Country Park also provides toilets, baby changing areas, and cycle racks, making visits more comfortable.
What makes the natural monuments around Stanton Fitzwarren popular with visitors?
Visitors appreciate the diverse offerings, from tranquil lakeside views at Coate Water Lake to the historical significance and panoramic views from Liddington Castle Hillfort. The opportunity to explore ancient woodlands and observe local wildlife, combined with well-maintained trails and facilities, contributes to their popularity.
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