Discover the Mystique of Wayland's Smithy
Explore the ancient mystique of Wayland's Smithy, a captivating Neolithic long barrow nestled in the scenic hills of Ashbury, England.
Nestled in the picturesque countryside near Ashbury, Wayland's Smithy is a captivating historical landmark and hiking area that offers tourists a glimpse into ancient Britain. This Neolithic long barrow is steeped in myth and history, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring the region.
A brief summary to Wayland's Smithy
- Ashbury, SN6 8NX, GB
- +443703331181
- Visit website
- 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 early in the morning or late afternoon to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and beautiful lighting for photography.
- Wear comfortable shoes for hiking as the trails can be uneven and may include some steep sections.
- Take the time to read the informative plaques around the site to fully appreciate its historical significance.
- Consider bringing a picnic to enjoy in the surrounding fields, allowing you to soak in the tranquil environment.
- Check local weather conditions before your visit, as pathways can become muddy after rain.
Getting There
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Bus
From central Oxford, head to the Oxford Bus Station located on George Street. Look for the bus services to Swindon or Ashbury. You can take the Stagecoach bus number 66, which will take you towards Ashbury. Make sure to check the bus schedule for the latest times. After approximately 30 minutes, get off at the Ashbury Village stop. From there, Wayland's Smithy is about a 20-minute walk. Head north on the main road through the village, and follow the signs for the hiking trail leading to Wayland's Smithy.
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Train and Walk
From Oxford train station, take a train to Swindon. The train journey usually takes about 30 minutes. Once you arrive at Swindon, exit the station and catch a bus to Ashbury. Bus services like the X5 can take you to Ashbury. Upon reaching Ashbury, follow the signs to Wayland's Smithy which is approximately a 20-minute walk from the village center, heading towards the hiking trail.
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Walking
If you're up for a long hike, you can start walking from central Oxford. Head towards the Botley Road and follow it out of the city. After about 2.5 miles, you will reach the outskirts. From there, continue to follow the signs for the scenic countryside leading towards Ashbury village. This will take you approximately 1.5 to 2 hours depending on your pace. Once you reach Ashbury, follow the trail signs to Wayland's Smithy.
Discover more about Wayland's Smithy
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