Surrounded by rolling chalk hills, Marlborough is a charming town on the historic route linking London with Bath. Its prehistoric mound suggests the area was inhabited as early as 2,400 BC, with William the Conqueror later building a motte-and-bailey castle on the site. Today, Marlborough is renowned for its prestigious college where Nobel laureates, politicians and royals have been educated.
Things to do in Marlborough
Enjoy a stroll along the Marlborough High Street, which is lined with heritage-listed buildings constructed following the Great Fire of Marlborough. It is one of the widest high streets in the United Kingdom, with unique stores to explore and historic pubs where you can grab a drink. Several lanes lead from the Marlborough High Street to the banks of the River Kennet.
In the heart of Marlborough is the Merchant’s House, which was built by a silk merchant, Thomas Bayly, in 1653. Join a guided tour to ascend its impressive oak staircase and explore its spacious and elegant rooms, many of which are decorated with wall paintings. Costume-making, needlework and paint conservation demonstrations are held here throughout the year.
Sprawling south-east of Marlborough is the Savernake Forest, which encompasses 1,800 hectares of hilly downland dotted with ancient oak and beech trees. As you explore its walking trails, keep an eye out for the 1,000-year-old Duke’s Vaunt Oak and the King of Limbs, as well as the stately Cathedral Oak. Nearby is the Grade I-listed Tottenham House where Radiohead recorded “In Rainbows”.
Getting around Marlborough
Marlborough is around an hour’s drive from Bath and just under two hours from central London. Heathrow Airport is one hour away and has flights to destinations across the globe. Regular buses connect to Marlborough and the town is small enough to explore on foot.