Chippenham

Type: Town

Chippenham is the largest town in North Wiltshire. Swans glide along the River Avon as it winds gently through the beautiful park which provides a peaceful oasis amid the bustling market town.

Founded over 1000 years ago it was the Royal Hunting Lodge for Alfred the Great from where he pursued his fight against the invading Danes.

In the Middle Ages corn mills made way for the prosperous wool trade and famous cheese market. The town flourished on the stagecoach route between Bristol and London and with the coming of the Great Western Railway.

Around the Market Place are the ancient Buttercross, magnificent St Andrew's Church, St Mary Street and the 15th century Yelde Hall - the old Town Hall which features an interactive history of the building and access to the original Council Chamber. Proximity to the M4 and fast Intercity Rail Service to London makes the town a dynamic centre for business and gives easy travel for visitors.

Chippenham has a great selection of shops and restaurants, and is home to an internationally acclaimed Folk Festival.

West of Chippenham are the exquisite "picture postcard" villages of Castle Combe, National Trust Lacock and Biddestone, complete with village green and duck pond.

Colourful street markets are held on Friday and Saturday, with a Farmers Market on the second Tuesday of each month .

Road Directions

South off M4 Junction 17. On A350 and A4.

Public Transport Directions

Intercity rail services from London Paddington (70 minutes), Bath (10 minutes), Bristol (30 minutes)and South Wales (1 hour).
National Express coach service from London, Swansea and Northampton.

National Travel Line: 0870 6082608