Fyfield Down NNR
Fyfield Down NNR has a unique combination of geomorphological, biological and archaeological features.
County: Wiltshire
Main habitats: Lowland Grassland
Area: 248 ha
Site map: Nature on the Map
Situated on a high plateau of chalk grassland, Fyfield Down displays the best collection of sarsen stones in Britain. Sarsen stones are large boulders of siliceous sandstone that were transported to the area through glacial action during the ice age. Ancient peoples used these stones for building purposes and today they support rare lichen and moss communities.
The site is internationally important for its archaeological interest and is part of a World Heritage Site.
Location and access
The reserve is 2 km north of the A4, 3 km north west of Marlborough. By car, the area is accessed via a minor road between Marlborough and the village of Broad Hinton. There is a car park on this road approximately 3 km to the south east of the village and another near Manton House 1.5 km north west of Marlborough.
The nearest train stations are Pewsey (10 km to the south) and Swindon (13 km to the north).
Local bus services are provided by the Wilts and Dorset bus company.
Three trails cross the Downs: the Wessex Ridgeway, the Ridgeway National Trail, and the White Horse Trail.
Facilities
The nearest toilet and refreshment facilities are in local towns and villages.
