| Location | Bratton, Wiltshire, UK |
| OS Grid Ref | ST898516 |
| Coordinates | Lat: 51.263464N Long: 2.147571W |
Tradition has it that the original white horse on this site was cut to commemorate King Alfred's defeat of Guthrun in 879. However, the earliest mention seems to be by the Reverend Wise in his 1742 book "Further Observations on the White Horse and other Antiquities in Berkshire".[1]
The present version of this hill figure was cut in 1778 by the steward of Lord Abingdon [2]. With concrete added to hold the edging stones in place during the early twentieth centure, the horse was finally totally covered in concrete in the 1950s and again in 1990s. In 2012 the horse was steam cleaned and repainted for the Queen's Diamond Jubilee [3].
I feel that the ambience at this well used site is wonderful. There often tend to be families enjoying the white horse and the field opposite the car park. It seems to be a good site for hang gliders and there's often the chance for an ice cream too!
[1] https://www.wiltshirewhitehorses.org.uk/westbury.html
[2] https://history.wiltshire.gov.uk/community/gettimeline.php?community=Wiltshire
[3] http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-wiltshire-17714006
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| The viewpoint. |
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| A typical scene for this well used site. |
Access is via the car park. There is a stile to get over and the ground can be uneven. Not suitable for pushchairs or wheelchairs. There is a bench close to the horse.
Additionally there is a viewpoint of the horse at the car park located on the B3098 between Westbury and Bratton (ST884516). If you turn to the left on the Street View, you will be able to see the car park.
Street View (View of the horse from the B3098 viewpoint car park)
Street View (View of access to the horse from the car park at the White Horse location)
See my Westbury White Horse page on Megalithic.com for lots of links and maps and nearby sites, click here.
That's wonderful! I can see why it would be a popular attraction for families because of the history, the uniqueness of it, and because it's such a visible landmark. Thanks for the street views. There are so many things in the U.K. that I want to see, so I'm going to have to go back for another visit.
ReplyDeleteOh yes, please do come back. There's so much to see in our little country. I'm glad you liked this.
DeleteLovely one!
ReplyDeleteI only ever see this by craning my neck as we drive swiftly through Westbury on our way south to Dorset most summers. I can't get the husband to stop and look properly.
So thanks for sharing a more close-up view and some information!
All the best :)
That's such a shame. It's worth popping up because there are wonderful views and a nice atmosphere. Maybe you should pack a picnic next time, so you have an excuse to have a quick stop up top! We're popping down to Dorset at the weekend - can't wait :)
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