Attractions and Places To See around Welford - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Welford include historical landmarks, expansive natural landscapes, and significant cultural sites. This rural area, situated in the valley of the River Lambourn, offers a blend of ancient trackways and notable monuments. Visitors can explore sites with historical significance and enjoy wide-ranging views across the countryside. The region provides diverse points of interest for those seeking both cultural insights and outdoor exploration.
Best attractions and places to see around Welford
- The most popular attractions is Combe Gibbet, a man-made monument that stands on Gallows Down. This historical site was erected in 1676 and offers expansive views across the surrounding landscape.
- Another must-see spot is The Ridgeway, an ancient trackway described as Britain's oldest road. This long-distance route provides incredible views and is suitable for mountain biking and gravel biking.
- Visitors also love Lord Wantage Monument, a historical site and viewpoint. This memorial obelisk is situated high on the Ridgeway and affords views of the vale.
- Welford is known for historical sites, viewpoints, and trails. The area offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient monuments to scenic routes.
- The attractions around Welford are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 140 upvotes and 30 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 4, 2026
The Ridgeway
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Combe Gibbet
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St Michael and All Angels Church, Lambourn
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The first written record of a church at Lambourn is from 1032, in a charter of Cnut, but it seems highly likely there was a Saxon church here several centuries earlier. Charters in 934 and 955 mention Lambourn, and Alfred the Great mentions a royal manor at Lambourn in his will. Though circumstantial, these documents suggest that an important Saxon church, perhaps a minster, stood here at least as early as the 9th century (a minster acted as a ‘mother’ church for a region, and may have had resident priests who traveled out from their base to preach and minister to their far-flung flocks). The circular shape of the churchyard suggests that the site may have been in use in Roman times, or even earlier.
The current church of St Michael and All Angels was begun in the 12th century, with major rebuilding in the 13t, 15th, and 19th centuries. The core of the building dates to about 1180, and is constructed on a cruciform plan. To the 12th century core was added a pair of transepts in the 13th century, several 14th century chantry chapels, and the chancel and upper portion of the tower were rebuilt in the 16th century."
Cit. lambourn.org/st-michael-and-all-angels
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Lord Wantage Monument
Highlight • Historical Site
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Greenham Common Control Tower
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Tips from the Community
White horse hill heading east downhill on the ridgeway very rutted
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Replacements and Legacy: The original gibbet from 1676 eventually deteriorated. The current gibbet is actually the seventh to stand on the site. Previous versions were replaced due to rotting, being struck by lightning, vandalism, or being blown down by strong winds. The current replica was erected in 1992. While the gibbet was only ever used for the display of George Bromham and Dorothy Newman, its grim history has made it a local landmark and a popular spot for walkers, hang-gliders, and paragliders, offering expansive views across Berkshire, Hampshire, and Wiltshire. The story of the murders even inspired a 1948 silent film called "The Black Legend," made by a young John Schlesinger.
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The Gibbet's Purpose: After their execution, their bodies were brought back to Inkpen and prepared for public display. A large, double gibbet was hastily erected on the long barrow. The bodies of George and Dorothy, bound in chains, were then displayed on either side of the gibbet on March 6, 1676, as a stark and gruesome warning to the local community to deter similar crimes. The location was chosen due to its prominence and being on the border of the two parishes, as there was a dispute over which parish should bear the cost of the gibbet.
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The Murders and Gibbeting: The Crime: George Bromham, a married farm labourer from Combe, and Dorothy Newman, a widow from Inkpen, were having an illicit affair. To be together, they murdered George's wife, Martha Bromham, and their son, Robert. Accounts vary, but it's believed they waylaid Martha and Robert and beat them to death with staves near where the gibbet now stands. One dramatic, though likely far-fetched, version suggests George killed his wife by thrusting her head into a hornet's nest. The Witness: The crime was reportedly witnessed by a villager known as "Mad Thomas," who alerted the authorities. Trial and Execution: George Bromham and Dorothy Newman were tried at Winchester Assizes. They were found guilty and hanged in Winchester on March 3, 1676.
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sections can be very tough going in winter and spring due to mud and chalky surfaces; expect some hike-a-bike;
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Greenham Common Control Tower is a museum and visitor centre. The control tower has major historical significance, playing an important role in both the Cold War and WW2 era. Visitors can explore the rich history of this building whilst taking in panoramic views at the observation desk. There is a café on site too where you can grab a hot drink or bite to eat.
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Take your time and take in the history and enjoy the scenery.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical landmarks can I explore around Welford?
The Welford area is rich in history. You can visit Combe Gibbet, a macabre monument with a fascinating, albeit dark, history and expansive views. Another significant site is the Lord Wantage Monument, an obelisk commemorating a distinguished soldier, offering stunning views from its position on the Ridgeway. Additionally, St Michael and All Angels Church, Lambourn, is a historical religious building dating back to Saxon times.
Are there any notable natural features or viewpoints in the Welford area?
Yes, the region offers several natural features and excellent viewpoints. Combe Gibbet and the Lord Wantage Monument both provide expansive views across Berkshire, Hampshire, and Wiltshire. The area is also known for the spectacular snowdrop displays in late January and February at Welford Park, which features five acres of beech woodland carpeted with snowdrops.
What outdoor activities, like cycling or hiking, are available near Welford's attractions?
Welford is an excellent base for outdoor activities. The ancient trackway, The Ridgeway, is perfect for mountain biking and gravel biking, offering incredible views. You can find numerous MTB trails, gravel biking routes, and road cycling routes around Welford, catering to various difficulty levels.
Are there family-friendly attractions or activities in Welford?
Yes, the Greenham Common Control Tower is a family-friendly museum and visitor center. It offers insights into its historical significance from the Cold War and WW2 eras, with panoramic views from its observation deck. There's also a café on-site, making it a comfortable stop for families.
When is the best time to visit Welford for outdoor activities or specific sights?
For outdoor activities like walking and cycling on The Ridgeway, spring to autumn generally offers the most pleasant weather. If you're interested in seeing the famous snowdrop displays at Welford Park, the best time to visit is in late January and February when the grounds are carpeted with them.
What kind of trails are available for walking or cycling around Welford?
The Welford area offers a variety of trails. The Ridgeway is an ancient trackway suitable for both walking and cycling, particularly mountain and gravel biking, providing incredible views. You can find numerous routes for MTB, gravel biking, and road cycling, ranging from easy to difficult.
What is the significance of the Greenham Common Control Tower?
The Greenham Common Control Tower is a Grade II listed building with major historical significance, playing an important role during both the Cold War and WW2 eras. It now serves as a museum and visitor center, allowing visitors to explore its rich history and enjoy panoramic views from its observation deck.
Can I find places to eat or drink near the attractions in Welford?
Yes, the Greenham Common Control Tower has a volunteer-run café on-site, offering hot drinks and snacks. For more options, the nearby villages often have pubs and cafes. For example, the village of Welford-on-Avon (Warwickshire) has The Bell Inn, and the wider region has various establishments.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the attractions around Welford?
Visitors frequently praise the incredible views from sites like Combe Gibbet and Lord Wantage Monument. The historical significance of places like The Ridgeway and the Greenham Common Control Tower is also highly appreciated, along with the diverse opportunities for cycling and walking.
Is there parking available at Welford's main attractions?
Yes, for attractions like the Greenham Common Control Tower, there are dedicated car park facilities. For other sites like Combe Gibbet and Lord Wantage Monument along The Ridgeway, parking is typically available in nearby lay-bys or designated car parks for walkers and cyclists.
Are there any long-distance routes that pass through Welford?
Yes, The Ridgeway, described as Britain's oldest road, is a prominent ancient trackway that runs from Ivinghoe Beacon to Avebury and passes through the Welford area. This route is popular for long-distance walking and cycling.
Most popular attractions around Welford
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