Cherhill White Horse: Wiltshire's Historic Chalk Figure
An iconic 18th-century chalk hill figure near Calne, blending rich history, striking landscape, and community heritage in Wiltshire.
The Cherhill White Horse, carved into the chalk hillside near Calne in Wiltshire, England, is the third oldest white horse hill figure in Britain. Created in 1780 by Dr Christopher Alsop, this iconic landmark measures approximately 165 by 220 feet and is maintained by volunteers. It offers spectacular views over the surrounding countryside and sits near other historic sites like Oldbury Castle and the Lansdowne Monument.
A brief summary to Cherhill White Horse
- Calne, SN11 8XY, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit from the A4 road lay-by for excellent distant views before hiking up the footpath to the horse.
- Wear sturdy footwear for the steep chalk hillside paths leading up to the horse.
- Keep dogs on a lead when walking near grazing livestock around the site.
- Combine your visit with a walk along the White Horse Trail to see other Wiltshire white horses.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Car
Driving from Calne town center takes approximately 10-15 minutes via the A4. Parking is available at a lay-by on the westbound carriageway near the footpath to Cherhill Down. Note parking is limited and can fill during peak times.
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Bus
Local bus services connect Calne with nearby towns; from Calne, a 3.5-mile walk or taxi ride is required to reach Cherhill White Horse. Bus frequency varies, so check current timetables.
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Walking
For hiking enthusiasts, a scenic 3.5-mile walk from Calne to the site follows rural footpaths and the White Horse Trail. The terrain includes steep chalk slopes and uneven ground, suitable for experienced walkers.
Cherhill White Horse location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Cherhill White Horse
A Storied Chalk Giant on Cherhill Down
The Cherhill White Horse is a striking hill figure carved into the chalk of Cherhill Down, just east of Calne in Wiltshire. Created in 1780 by Dr Christopher Alsop, a local physician known as the “mad doctor,” the horse measures about 165 feet by 220 feet. Alsop reportedly directed the carving from a distance using a megaphone, guiding volunteers who stripped the turf to expose the white chalk beneath. This figure is the third oldest white horse in Britain, following the Uffington and Westbury horses, and it may have been inspired by the recently remodeled Westbury White Horse nearby.Historical and Cultural Significance
The Cherhill White Horse is more than a local landmark; it is a symbol of Wiltshire’s rich heritage. The figure represents a tradition of chalk hill carvings in southern England, some dating back thousands of years. Over the centuries, the horse has been maintained and restored by dedicated local groups, including a major restoration in 2002 that involved re-cutting the outline and resurfacing with fresh chalk. Historically, the horse even featured a gleaming glass eye made from upturned bottles, which reflected sunlight and made it visible from afar. Today, the eye is made of stone and concrete after the original bottles were lost.Surrounding Landscape and Nearby Monuments
The horse sits on a steep slope beneath Oldbury Castle, an Iron Age hillfort, and close to the Lansdowne Monument, a 38-meter obelisk erected in 1845 to honor Sir William Petty. The site offers expansive views of the rolling Wiltshire countryside, making it a popular spot for walkers and nature enthusiasts. The chalk grassland habitat around the horse supports rare plants and wildlife, adding ecological value to its cultural importance.Visitor Experience and Preservation
Visitors can view the horse from the A4 road or approach it via footpaths leading up Cherhill Down, though walking directly on the horse is prohibited to protect the monument. The site is managed by the National Trust and maintained by volunteers who periodically re-chalk and weed the figure. The horse is also part of the 94-mile White Horse Trail, which connects all eight remaining Wiltshire white horses, offering a unique long-distance walking experience.Local Lore and Anecdotes
The Cherhill White Horse has inspired other chalk horses in the region, such as the Alton Barnes White Horse. Anecdotes include children sliding down the steep chalk slope on trays in the mid-20th century and the horse’s appearance in popular culture, including a 1988 music video. The nearby hillside is also known for occasional crop circles, adding a layer of mystery to the site.Conservation and Community Importance
Maintaining the Cherhill White Horse requires ongoing effort to combat natural erosion and vegetation growth. Local groups and schools contribute to its upkeep, reflecting the community’s commitment to preserving this historic landmark. The horse remains a beloved symbol of Wiltshire’s landscape and history, attracting visitors who appreciate its blend of natural beauty, heritage, and cultural resonance.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Windmill Hill, Avebury
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Silbury Hill
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The Old Boathouse
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Bathampton Mill Bath
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Bathwick Boatman Riverside
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The Restaurant at The Bird
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Opa Bath
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Ponte Vecchio
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La Perla
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The Herd Steak Restaurant
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The Elder Restaurant
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Hudson Steakhouse
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Sotto Sotto
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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The Henge Shop
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Avebury Community Shop
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Requires Hike
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
