Things to do in and around Wilton

Wilton is a delightful village in the parish of Grafton. It is home to Wilton Windmill, the only working windmill in Wessex, and Wilton Water, which is a reservoir for the Kennet & Avon Canal. Close by is Crofton Beam Engines, the original pumping station for the Kennet & Avon Canal, taking water from Wilton Water and topping up the canal, which loses water through the lock system.

The route of the Roman road between Cirencester and Winchester runs from the canal to the A338, known as Middle Road. On Middle Road, you will find the vehicle entrance for The Cattle Shed and beyond that, the new wetland that has been created to reduce flooding in the village.

There are lots of walking routes in and around Wilton, many taking in the Kennet & Avon Canal and you can find all of the walks here.

At the heart of this little village is The Swan Inn which is a lovely, friendly country pub, serving delicious food and local beers and ciders. And you can visit the emus in the walled field opposite Manor Farm – they are very inquisitive and fun to watch!

Just outside Wilton village in Dark Lane is Wild Camping Wiltshire – a 3-acre area of private woodland and field where you can stay completely off-grid.

If you are feeling creative, then make sure you book a pottery throwing session with Julia Bowes at her studio in Wilton.