Explore Wiltshire
Your Itinerary Planner
Welcome to the Itinerary Planner. Use this tool to build your own journey or choose from an exciting range of specially selected tours.
Malmesbury
As England's oldest borough, with a history dating back over 1,000 years, Malmesbury is rightly called the 'Queen of Hilltop Towns'.
Set on a hill, circled by the River Avon, the skyline is dominated by the imposing Norman Abbey.
St Aldhelm found a monastery in the 7th century which became a place of pilgrimage and learning and in the 10th century Athelstan, first King of all England, made Malmesbury his capital.
In 1010 Monk Eilmer made wings and 'flew' from the Abbey. He glided for 200 yards before landing and breaking his legs, blaming the lack of a tail for the short flight.
The town flourished in the 15th, 16th and 17th centuries as a weaving centre and became known for its fine silk and lace.
The historical sites of the town, the fine 15th century Market Cross, the Old Courtroom and Almshouses, narrow medieval streets, quaint alleyways and the riverwalk with amusing tales of the town's colourful past and personalities, can easily be discovered on foot.
Internationally renowned, Abbey House Gardens offer a romantic and unique oasis in the centre of town.
Many of the town's restaurants and shops serve succulent, locally produced produce in atmospheric surroundings. Unusual, independent retail outlets offer plenty of shopping opportunities.
A varied range of events are hosted by the town, from Farmer's Markets to the Summer Carnival in August, and frequent concerts in the wonderful surroundings of the Abbey.
Malmesbury is also keen to establish itself as the UK’s first philosophy town, and takes pride in the fact that down the centuries it has been home to philosophers, statesmen and creative thinkers. These include Thomas Hobbes, the political philosopher, who was born Malmesbury during the sixteenth century and was the original inspiration for Malmesbury’s Philosophy Festival, which is now established as a regular event in the town.
World Philosophy Day is on 17 November.
>>Browse accommodation in Malmesbury.
Tempting places to eat and drink range from tea shops and cafes to pubs and restaurants, while shopping is a pleasure, with everything from major discount outlets to unique, individual retailers.
There is an excellent year-round programme of arts and entertainment on offer, and enough festivals and sports and leisure opportunities to satisfy even the most active of visitors... not to mention our outstanding range of places to visit.
Highlights This Month
- Surviving the Stone Age 28/1/2012
- Winter Archaeology Walk 4/2/2012
- Half Term Family Fun Trail 11/2/2012
- Trowbridge Sporting Heroes and a History of the Olympics 11/2/2012
Highlights Next Month
