Things To Do
in Amesbury
Amesbury is a historic town located in Wiltshire, England, known for its rich heritage dating back to ancient times. The town is famous for being near Stonehenge, a mysterious and iconic prehistoric monument. Amesbury offers a mix of traditional English charm with modern amenities, making it a pleasant place to visit or live.
With its picturesque countryside, historical sites, and friendly community, Amesbury is a delightful destination for those interested in exploring British history and culture.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $40 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the historic Amesbury Abbey. Enjoy a stroll through the beautiful gardens and learn about the local history.
Head to the Stonehenge Visitor Centre to delve into the mysteries of this iconic site. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at the café and explore the exhibition.
Dine at a local pub and savor traditional British cuisine. Wind down with a walk along the River Avon.
Begin your adventure with an early morning visit to Stonehenge before it gets busy. Take your time to appreciate the ancient monument and surrounding landscape.
Visit the nearby village of Milford for lunch and explore its quaint shops. Afterward, take a scenic walk along the riverbanks.
Return to Amesbury for dinner at a cozy restaurant. Share stories of the day over dessert.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical heritage, including proximity to Stonehenge and Salisbury.
- Beautiful countryside and scenic views, ideal for outdoor activities.
- Strong community spirit with local events and markets.
- Good transport links to nearby cities like Salisbury and Bath.
- Affordable housing compared to larger cities.
- Limited job opportunities compared to urban centers.
- Relatively small town with fewer amenities and entertainment options.
- Public transport may not be as frequent or convenient as in larger cities.
- Some areas may be prone to flooding due to proximity to rivers.
- Potential for slower pace of life which may not suit everyone.
Best Activities in Amesbury
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the historic streets of Amesbury on foot, visiting landmarks such as the iconic St. Mary and St. Melor Church and the scenic Old Sarum.
Visit the world-famous Stonehenge, located just a short distance from Amesbury, and take in the prehistoric monument's majesty.
Enjoy cycling along the scenic routes around Amesbury, including the picturesque paths through the surrounding countryside.
Stroll along the River Avon, enjoying the natural beauty and wildlife that the area has to offer.
Relax and unwind in one of Amesbury's local parks, such as the Amesbury Park or along the banks of the River Avon, perfect for family picnics and outdoor games.
Engage in bird watching and spot various species in the natural reserves around Amesbury, including the nearby Salisbury Plain.
Participate in a modern treasure hunt with geocaching in and around Amesbury, as you discover hidden caches in the beautiful surroundings.
Tours
Uncover the best of Amesbury with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Amesbury
Visit one of these nice places.
An iconic prehistoric monument located just outside Amesbury, offering breathtaking views and unique photo opportunities, especially during sunrise and sunset.
A picturesque historic building with lovely gardens, providing a charming backdrop for photos and peaceful views of the surrounding landscape.
The scenic banks of the River Avon are perfect for capturing tranquil water views and reflections, especially in the early morning.
An ancient timber circle near Amesbury that offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, ideal for photography enthusiasts.
These beautifully maintained gardens provide vibrant floral displays and green spaces, perfect for colorful and lively photographs.
A historic hilltop site offering impressive views over Salisbury and the surrounding area, as well as fascinating archaeological sites for photography.
A charming bridge over the River Avon that provides a picturesque setting for photos, especially during sunset.
The vast, open landscapes of Salisbury Plain offer stunning views of the natural environment, perfect for capturing the beauty of rural England.
Food in Amesbury
Amesbury Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A savory loaf made with Wiltshire bacon and cheese, typically served as a delicious appetizer or snack. It can be found at local bakeries and cafes like The George Hotel Bakery.
Must-Try!
Slow-roasted lamb sourced from the nearby Salisbury Plain, offering a tender and flavorful dining experience. Visit The Bell Inn for an authentic taste of this local specialty.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Amesbury better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This market showcases a diverse selection of fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, baked goods, and street food offerings. You can sample delectable dishes like gourmet burgers and wood-fired pizzas.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Amesbury, it's customary to greet people with a warm smile and a polite 'hello.' A firm handshake is also common when meeting someone for the first time. It's important to maintain eye contact while greeting, as it shows confidence and respect.
The British value orderly queueing. Always wait your turn in lines, whether at shops, public transport, or events. Jumping ahead in a queue is considered very rude and disrespectful. If someone does this, it's typically met with disapproving looks from others.
Politeness is a key aspect of social interactions in Amesbury. Use 'please' and 'thank you' frequently, as they are essential in showing appreciation and respect. Additionally, saying 'sorry' even for minor inconveniences is an ingrained part of British culture, and helps to maintain harmonious social interactions.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Amesbury with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Amesbury
Ensure a smooth experience
In Amesbury, as in the rest of the United Kingdom, tipping is generally considered a voluntary gesture to reward excellent service. It is common to leave a 10-15% tip in restaurants if service is not included in the bill. In pubs, it is customary to round up the bill or leave small change. Tipping taxi drivers is also common, typically rounding up to the nearest pound or adding a small percentage.
Payment methods in Amesbury reflect modern UK practices, with cash still being accepted but card payments being more prevalent. Most establishments accept credit and debit cards, and contactless payments are increasingly common. Mobile payment options such as Apple Pay or Google Pay are also widely accepted. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller shops or rural areas where card facilities may not be available.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Amesbury.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (March to May) is a lovely time to visit Amesbury as the weather begins to warm up and flowers start to bloom. Expect mild temperatures and vibrant greenery, making it perfect for outdoor activities and exploring local attractions like Stonehenge.
Summer (June to August) can be warm and sunny, with temperatures reaching up to the mid-20s Celsius. This is a popular time for tourists, so expect more crowds at major sights. Festivals and events are common during this season, offering a lively atmosphere.
Autumn (September to November) brings cooler temperatures and stunning fall foliage. This is a quieter time to visit, with fewer tourists. Expect to see harvest festivals and enjoy local produce as the region showcases its seasonal bounty.
Winter (December to February) can be cold and occasionally snowy. While many attractions might be less crowded, some may have reduced hours. The festive season can bring lovely decorations and events, making for a different kind of charm.
Amesbury at Night
Hiking in Amesbury
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic hill offering beautiful views of the surrounding countryside, perfect for a short hike.
A vast area of natural beauty with numerous trails to explore, ideal for hiking enthusiasts.
A large area of open grassland with several marked walking paths, great for hiking and enjoying nature.
Offers walking routes around the iconic Stonehenge site, with breathtaking views and historical significance.
Features trails through fields and woodlands, providing a tranquil hiking experience.
Aiports
How to reach Amesbury by plane.
Located approximately 30 miles from Amesbury, Bournemouth Airport offers both domestic and international flights.
Located about 40 miles from Amesbury, Southampton Airport serves a variety of destinations across Europe.
Bristol Airport is situated roughly 60 miles from Amesbury and is one of the major airports serving the South West of England.
Approximately 80 miles from Amesbury, Heathrow is one of the world's busiest international airports.
Located around 90 miles from Amesbury, Gatwick operates a significant number of international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Amesbury, representing the majority of the population.
Includes individuals from other European countries and minority groups from white ethnic backgrounds.
Includes people of Indian, Pakistani, Bangladeshi, Chinese, and other Asian origins.
Encompasses a variety of ethnic minorities, including Black, Mixed, and other groups.
Individuals identifying with more than one ethnic group.
Covers those not classified in the main ethnic categories.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A widely popular team sport played between two teams of eleven players, known for its competitive spirit and community involvement in Amesbury.
A physically demanding team sport that has a strong following in Amesbury, with local clubs and events fostering community ties.
A traditional bat-and-ball game that enjoys popularity during the summer months, often played in local parks and clubs.
A popular individual sport with various local running clubs and events, encouraging fitness and community participation.
A favorite recreational activity in and around Amesbury, with numerous cycling routes and local competitions.
Enjoyed recreationally and competitively, tennis clubs in Amesbury offer facilities and coaching for players of all ages.
A popular sport and leisure activity in Amesbury, with local pools and swimming clubs providing training and competition opportunities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Amesbury.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Amesbury's dining scene is accommodating to vegetarians and vegans, with many restaurants offering dedicated plant-based menus and creative dishes that celebrate local produce.
Visitors with gluten intolerances can enjoy a range of gluten-free options at various eateries, including cafes that provide gluten-free cakes, pastries, and savories.