Amesbury

Website: Visit Wiltshire
Directions from A303: Signposted from the A303
For more information on Amesbury: Contact the Amesbury Information Point, The Library, Smithfield St, Amesbury, SP4 7AL. Tel: 01980 622833

Pictures courtesy of Visit Salisbury and copyright of Bryn Jones

Welcome to Amesbury, one of Wiltshire's most attractive towns, and 'the home of Stonehenge'! Before you head for the main attraction, why not pop into St Mary and St Melor Abbey Church (Church Street, Amesbury, Wiltshire SP4 7EU). It has Norman origins, and is an early example of a cruciform church (that is, built in a crucifix shape).

Historic: St Mary and St Melor Abbey Church

There has been an Abbey in this area for over 1,000 years, and a stunning classical mansion called Amesbury Abbey stands on the original site in 35 areas of parkland. It's now a private nursing home, and not a bad little pad to retire to. The estate is open to the public twice a year so that they can view the Chinese Summerhouse designed by Sir William Chambers, who also created the Pagoda at Kew. If you'd like to make an appointment to see the grounds, please call 01980 622 957