Where quiet forest gives way to one of the finest views in Wiltshire
A short, rewarding walk through Longleat Forest that ends with one of Wiltshire’s best views. Simple to follow and great for families, dogs and anyone who likes a touch of sculpture with their scenery.
Practicalities
01. Start
Coppice car park
Park in Nockatt Coppice roadside car park and cross carefully to the start of the walk. A wide stone path leads ahead through a stand of silver birch. The path splits almost immediately. Follow the main track as it curves gently to the right.
02.
Forest approach
The path meanders through lawns dotted with ornamental planting and tall specimen trees. Rhododendrons, evergreens and pockets of undergrowth create plenty of hiding places for children to explore. It is the sort of woodland that feels curated without being fussy.
03.
Among the pines
Before long the scenery shifts into a dense pine forest. It has a slightly storybook quality to it and may remind parents of the Gruffalo. The track stays wide, level and easy to follow.
04.
Heavens Gate
Leaving the trees, you pass through a double wooden fence and enter open ground at the top of Prospect Hill. Here you find nine large standing stones and a ring shaped gateway sculpture made from thirteen smaller stones.
One stone weighs nineteen tonnes and the whole installation was commissioned by Lord Bath and created by Warminster artist Paul Norris. In the right light the metals embedded in the stones catch the sun and appear to glow.
Longleat spreads out below in one wide panorama.
Benches line the ridge. From here you get sweeping views across the Longleat Estate including Longleat House itself. On quiet days you may hear the distant sounds of the safari animals. Sealions featured during our last visit.
05. Finish
Return via the woods
When you are ready to head back, turn left and pass through a different wooden gate beside the stone circle sculpture. This path leads you back into the forest on a different route. Follow the track through the trees until it rejoins the silver birch entrance near the car park.
Near by
Rye Bakery in Frome
Eighteen minutes drive away in Frome, The Station is a converted warehouse filled with food producers, makers and small retailers. Rye Bakery’s outpost here serves excellent sourdough, pastries and pizzas. The cardamom bun and the chai latte are especially good. It is an easy and satisfying stop after the walk.
