Marlborough

About

**Please read our guidelines on visiting the Great West Way responsibly before you travel.**

 

Marlborough is situated in the picturesque rural north-east of Wiltshire.

Much of its great natural beauty is environmentally protected and it offers the discerning visitor a unique blend of modern attractions and facilities. Site of a twice-weekly market, the High Street is one of the widest in the UK and lined on both sides with characterful old buildings housing an array of high quality shops.

The town displays the confidence of wealth from times past, yet today remains vibrant and progressive with its own chic café culture and many independent shops.

The Merchant's House - one of the finest 17th century middle-class homes open to visitors in England - is also to be found on the High Street here and contains a wealth of period features, paintings and artefacts and on-going restoration.

Also on Marlborough’s High Street is St Peter’s Church, now a community centre with an arts gallery and café. At certain times visitors can do a tower tour for great views over the town.

Among Marlborough’s many claims to fame is the mysterious Merlin’s Mound which can be found within the grounds of Marlborough College and is the reputed burial place of the wizard Merlin. The Duchess of Cambridge also attended this famous college.

The annual International Jazz Festival takes place over one weekend every July at the venues around the town and is a popular event for local residents and visitors alike. The traditional Mop Fairs held in October always bring in the crowds. Another draw is the annual Marlborough Literature Festival, an increasingly important event with something interesting for all ages and the Marlborough College Summer School, which draws lots of people to the town. Another popular annual event is the Marlborough Open Studios, usually held over several weekends in July, where local artists open up their studios, both in Marlborough and the neighbouring areas.

Walkers will enjoy the nearby Savernake Forest, to the southeast of the town. Head here during late spring for the bluebells and in autumn for the fantastic colours. The North Wessex Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty encompasses much of the countryside around Marlborough and there are ample walking and cycling routes throughout this area. Marlborough is also located very close to the Avebury World Heritage Site.

For visitors with mobility problems, wheelchairs or powered scooters are available for hire Monday to Saturday from Shopmobility, based in the Mobility Store adjacent to George Lane car and coach park.  Enquire at 07410 017307.