Hackpen White Horse: Wiltshire’s Square-Dimension Chalk Figure

Origins and Historical Significance

The Hackpen White Horse was carved in 1838, most likely by Henry Eatwell, the parish clerk of Broad Hinton, with assistance from a local pub landlord. It was created to commemorate the coronation of Queen Victoria, marking it as one of the more recent additions among Wiltshire’s famous white horse hill figures. Despite its relatively modern origin, the exact details of its creation remain somewhat uncertain, adding an air of mystery to this historic landmark.

Distinctive Design and Dimensions

What sets the Hackpen White Horse apart is its unique square shape, measuring exactly 90 feet wide by 90 feet high, making it England’s only square-dimension hill horse. Its design is somewhat spindly and less refined compared to other white horses, with a somewhat cartoonish or fox-like appearance. Over time, the figure has occasionally featured a large, doe-like eye, giving it a quirky character that contrasts with the more traditional equine hill figures.

Location and Surrounding Landscape

Situated on Hackpen Hill, part of the Marlborough Downs, the horse overlooks open fields that often feature crop circles during summer. The hill itself rises to about 600 feet and is traversed by the Ridgeway path, a historic trail. The horse is visible from several vantage points, including the nearby B4041 and A361 roads, and can be approached on foot from a car park atop the hill. The surrounding landscape is quintessentially English downland, with grazing real horses often seen in the fields near the figure, creating a charming juxtaposition of living and chalk horses.

Maintenance and Cultural Moments

The Hackpen White Horse is regularly scoured and maintained to keep its bright white appearance. Notably, it has been illuminated after cleaning events, a rare tradition among Wiltshire’s white horses. In 2009, the figure was temporarily transformed into a “red horse” for Comic Relief’s Red Nose Day by covering it with red fabric, showcasing its cultural relevance and community engagement.

Visitor Experience and Accessibility

Visitors can enjoy walking the Ridgeway path that passes near the horse, connecting to other historic sites like Barbury Castle and The Sanctuary. The site offers a peaceful rural atmosphere with scenic views, ideal for photography and nature appreciation. Parking is available at the hilltop, and the walk down to the horse is accessible by footpaths. The area is open year-round, making it a flexible destination for day trips or countryside exploration.

Local Significance and Community Connection

The Hackpen White Horse holds a special place in local identity, sometimes referred to as the Broad Hinton White Horse due to its proximity to the village. It is part of a network of chalk horses in Wiltshire, linked by the White Horse Trail, which celebrates the county’s rich heritage of hill figures. The nearby White Horse pub in Winterbourne Bassett even features an illustration inspired by the horse, reflecting its integration into local culture and tradition.