Morgan's Hill Nature Reserve: Wiltshire's Chalkland Sanctuary
Discover Morgan's Hill, a tranquil chalk grassland reserve rich in rare orchids, butterflies, historic earthworks, and sweeping Wiltshire vistas.
Morgan's Hill, located between Devizes and Calne in Wiltshire, is a 12.6-hectare Site of Special Scientific Interest renowned for its rich chalk grassland, rare orchids, butterflies, and sweeping views of the surrounding countryside. This nature reserve features historic landmarks like the Wansdyke earthwork and a Roman road, alongside diverse wildlife habitats nurtured by conservation grazing. Visitors can enjoy seasonal wildflowers, butterfly species, and panoramic vistas in a tranquil rural setting.
A brief summary to Morgan's Hill
- Devizes, Bishops Cannings, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
-
Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 3 out of 5
- Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4 pm
- Friday 10 am-4 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4 pm
- Sunday 10 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Visit in spring or summer to see the wildflowers and butterflies at their peak.
- Bring binoculars for birdwatching; kestrels and skylarks are commonly spotted.
- Wear sturdy footwear as some paths can be uneven, though wheelchair access is possible with care.
- Explore the nearby historic sites like the Cherhill White Horse and West Kennet Long Barrow for a full Wiltshire experience.
- Respect the grazing animals and conservation efforts by staying on marked paths.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Information Boards
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
Getting There
-
Bus
Take the bus from Devizes to Bishops Cannings, which runs approximately every 1-2 hours. From Bishops Cannings, a 20-minute walk on rural lanes leads to Morgan’s Hill. Bus fares range from £3 to £5 one way.
-
Car
Driving from Devizes or Calne takes about 15-20 minutes. Limited parking is available near the reserve entrance on a small lane; arriving early is recommended to secure a spot. There are no parking fees.
-
Taxi
Local taxi services from Devizes or Calne to Morgan’s Hill typically take 15 minutes and cost between £10 and £15. Taxi availability may vary, so booking in advance is advised.
-
Walking
For walkers, there are rural footpaths from Bishops Cannings and Calne, with walks taking 45 minutes to an hour. Terrain is mostly grassy and uneven, suitable for those comfortable with countryside walking.
Morgan's Hill location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Mild Temperatures
-
Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Morgan's Hill
Ecological Richness of Chalk Grassland
Morgan's Hill is a vibrant nature reserve celebrated for its exceptional chalk grassland ecosystem. This habitat supports a diverse array of wildflowers including early purple orchids, round-headed rampion, cowslips, primroses, violets, wild thyme, horseshoe vetch, common rock rose, and marsh helleborine. These floral communities bloom predominantly from spring through summer, creating a colorful tapestry that attracts numerous butterfly species such as Adonis, chalkhill, common and small blues, as well as the rare marsh fritillary. The reserve also hosts a variety of moths, including the distinctive Mother Shipton, and birds like kestrels, buzzards, yellow hammers, and skylarks.Historical and Cultural Landscape Features
The reserve is steeped in history, bordered to the south by the ancient Wansdyke earthwork, a defensive linear bank and ditch dating back to the early medieval period. A Roman road traces along its northern edge, highlighting the area's long-standing significance as a transit route. The hill’s name is linked to a local 18th-century figure, John Morgan, who was executed there in 1720. Additionally, the presence of native conifer species such as Scots pine, juniper, and yew, possibly planted as way-markers for drovers, adds to the cultural heritage embedded in the landscape.Conservation Efforts and Habitat Management
Managed by the Wiltshire Wildlife Trust, Morgan's Hill is actively conserved to maintain its chalk grassland habitat. The Trust employs grazing with Dexter cattle and Herdwick sheep to control scrub encroachment and promote biodiversity. Invasive species like tor-grass are removed to restore bare chalk patches, allowing a wider variety of plants and invertebrates to flourish. These efforts help sustain the delicate balance of this Site of Special Scientific Interest and support endangered species such as the marsh fritillary butterfly.Panoramic Views and Surrounding Scenery
The hill offers expansive views across Cherhill Down and the northern Wiltshire plains, providing a scenic backdrop that enhances the visitor experience. The open landscape and elevated position make it a favored spot for nature lovers and photographers seeking to capture the quintessential English countryside. Nearby historic and natural attractions, including the Cherhill White Horse, West Kennet Long Barrow, and Avebury, complement the reserve’s appeal.Modern Communication Heritage
Morgan's Hill also holds significance in the history of British communications. In 1913, a Marconi Imperial Wireless Chain receiving station was established on its south-east slopes, later becoming Britain's first long-range maritime communications station in 1920. The site continues to host modern radio communication masts used by police, mobile networks, and emergency services, blending technological heritage with natural conservation.Visitor Experience and Accessibility
Open daily from 10 am to 4 pm on most days, Morgan's Hill provides a peaceful retreat with accessible paths suitable for bumpy wheelchair rides or buggies. The reserve’s secluded location offers a quiet environment to enjoy wildlife observation and seasonal changes. Visitors are encouraged to explore respectfully, appreciating the delicate ecosystems and historical context that define this unique Wiltshire landmark.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Monks Mill
27.2 km
Discover Monks Mill, a rare medieval watermill ruin nestled in Bath’s picturesque Parade Gardens, echoing centuries of monastic industry and wool trade heritage.
The EASTGATE
27.2 km
Explore The EASTGATE, a captivating historical landmark in Bath, showcasing stunning Georgian architecture and rich cultural heritage.
Old Theatre Royal
27.3 km
Discover the historic Old Theatre Royal in Bath, a cultural hub blending stunning architecture and vibrant events for an unforgettable experience.
Sally Lunn’s Historic Eating House & Museum
27.3 km
Experience the rich history and delectable flavors at Sally Lunn’s Historic Eating House & Museum in Bath, where tradition meets taste.
Victoria Art Gallery
27.3 km
Explore the Victoria Art Gallery in Bath, where diverse art collections and serene ambiance come together for an unforgettable cultural experience.
Bath Guildhall Market
27.3 km
Explore Bath’s oldest indoor market with over 800 years of history, vibrant stalls, and charming cafes beneath a stunning domed roof.
Parte de la muralla medieval de la ciudad de Bath
27.3 km
Explore a rare surviving fragment of Bath’s medieval city wall, a gateway to the city’s rich Roman and medieval heritage.
Bath Abbey
27.3 km
Experience the awe-inspiring beauty and rich history of Bath Abbey, a stunning Gothic masterpiece in the heart of Bath, England.
Elton House
27.3 km
Discover the charm of Elton House, a self-catering accommodation in Bath perfect for experiencing the city's rich heritage and vibrant culture.
Marshal Wade's House
27.3 km
Discover the elegance and history of Marshal Wade's House in Bath, a stunning Georgian architectural gem that tells the stories of the past.
Bath Ghost Tours
27.4 km
Explore the haunted history of Bath with Bath Ghost Tours, where chilling tales and eerie encounters bring the city's past to life.
Museum of Bath Architecture
27.4 km
Explore Bath’s architectural evolution from medieval roots to Georgian grandeur in a compact, richly detailed museum setting.
Best of Bath Walking Tours
27.4 km
Explore Bath's rich heritage and stunning sights with the Best of Bath Walking Tours, where history and beauty come alive on every step.
Bath's Historic Venues
27.4 km
Explore Bath's Historic Venues, where elegance meets history in the heart of the city. Perfect for weddings, conferences, and unforgettable events.
The Roman Baths
27.4 km
Explore the ancient marvel of The Roman Baths in Bath, England, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that reveals the grandeur of Roman life through its well-preserved baths and captivating history.
Unmissable attractions to see
Oldbury Castle Hillfort
3.3 km
Explore Oldbury Castle Hillfort, an ancient Iron Age stronghold with breathtaking views and rich prehistoric heritage on Wiltshire’s Cherhill Downs.
Cherhill White Horse
3.5 km
Historic chalk hill figure carved in 1780, offering stunning views and a unique glimpse into Wiltshire’s heritage.
Bowood House & Gardens
5.7 km
Historic Bowood House & Gardens: Timeless heritage, stunning Capability Brown parkland, and family adventure in Wiltshire’s countryside.
Kennet and Avon Canal
5.8 km
Historic 57-mile canal linking London to Bristol with iconic locks, aqueducts, and scenic towpaths through England’s picturesque countryside.
Wiltshire Museum
6.3 km
Discover 500,000 years of Wiltshire’s history through award-winning galleries and stunning Bronze Age treasures in the heart of Devizes.
Bowood Woodland Gardens
6.7 km
A seasonal floral haven in Wiltshire showcasing spectacular bluebells, magnolias, azaleas, and rhododendrons across 30 serene woodland acres.
Windmill Hill, Avebury
7.5 km
Explore Windmill Hill, a vast Neolithic causewayed enclosure with panoramic views and deep prehistoric significance within Avebury's ancient landscape.
Silbury Hill
7.7 km
Explore Silbury Hill, Europe's largest prehistoric chalk mound, a monumental mystery towering over the Wiltshire landscape since 2400 BC.
National Trust - Avebury Manor
8.0 km
Explore a historic 16th-century manor and stunning gardens nestled within the world’s largest Neolithic stone circle in Wiltshire.
West Kennet Long Barrow
8.1 km
Explore one of Britain’s largest Neolithic tombs, a monumental burial site offering ancient history and stunning Wiltshire views.
National Trust Museum
8.1 km
Explore Britain’s prehistoric heritage through the remarkable artefacts and stories at the Alexander Keiller Museum in Avebury’s ancient heartland.
Avebury
8.3 km
Explore Avebury, the world’s largest Neolithic stone circle, a monumental prehistoric landscape of mystery, ritual, and enduring heritage.
The Alton Barnes White Horse
9.0 km
An iconic chalk hill figure on Wiltshire’s highest point, blending history, legend, and stunning panoramic views across the Pewsey Vale.
The Sanctuary
9.4 km
Explore the ancient timber circles and earthworks of The Sanctuary, a mystical Neolithic site within the Avebury World Heritage landscape.
Lacock Abbey
10.7 km
Discover Lacock Abbey: centuries of history, stunning architecture, and magical Harry Potter film scenes in Wiltshire’s enchanting countryside.
Essential places to dine
Sign of the Angel
10.9 km
Step into history at Sign of the Angel, a 15th-century coaching inn in Lacock offering cozy charm, excellent food, and timeless English hospitality.
The Silks
17.2 km
Historic Victorian pub in Wiltshire serving seasonal British fare by MasterChef Champion Thomas Frake, blending heritage with community spirit.
Bybrook
20.9 km
Michelin-starred modern British fine dining in a historic Cotswold manor with fresh, seasonal produce from its own kitchen garden.
Grey's Brasserie
23.6 km
Sophisticated yet relaxed dining at Whatley Manor, featuring globally inspired small plates and traditional Sunday roasts in a stunning Cotswolds setting.
Bathampton Mill Bath
24.9 km
Historic riverside gastropub blending traditional British charm with scenic views and modern dining near Bath.
Bathwick Boatman Riverside
26.6 km
Charming riverside dining in Bath’s historic boathouse, serving fresh seasonal dishes with warm, family-run hospitality.
The Restaurant at The Bird
26.8 km
Stylish, sustainable dining in Bathwick with modern British dishes, festive charm, and stunning views of Bath Abbey.
Opa Bath
27.1 km
Experience authentic Greek meze and vibrant nightlife in atmospheric vaulted cellars by Bath’s River Avon.
La Perla
27.1 km
Discover authentic Spanish tapas and vibrant flavors in the cozy, atmospheric arches beneath Bath’s historic streets.
Ponte Vecchio
27.1 km
Bath’s finest Italian restaurant in a converted riverside boathouse, with stunning views of Pulteney Bridge and the weir.
The Elder Restaurant
27.1 km
Experience refined modern British cuisine with a focus on seasonal wild game in Bath’s elegant Georgian setting.
Sotto Sotto
27.2 km
Discover authentic Italian cuisine in a romantic vaulted cellar setting beneath Bath’s historic streets.
The Herd Steak Restaurant
27.2 km
A cozy, family-run steakhouse in Bath famed for locally sourced, dry-aged beef and impeccable service in a unique basement setting.
Antica Bath Restaurant
27.2 km
Savor authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the charming Bathwick neighborhood at Antica Bath Restaurant.
Chez Dominique
27.2 km
Intimate modern French bistro in Bath offering seasonal Anglo-French cuisine with expertly crafted dishes and warm, attentive service.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Gift Box
4.6 km
Discover unique gifts and stylish fashion accessories in a charming Calne boutique with a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
National Trust shop
8.1 km
Discover unique gifts and local artisan treasures in a historic stables building at the heart of Avebury’s ancient village.
The Henge Shop
8.2 km
Explore Celtic and Pagan treasures, spiritual guidance, and artisan crafts in the heart of Avebury Stone Circle.
Avebury Community Shop
8.2 km
Explore the Avebury Community Shop for unique local products, artisan goods, and a taste of Marlborough's vibrant culture.
Elements of Avebury
8.3 km
Discover authentic local artistry and spiritual treasures in the heart of Avebury’s ancient stone circle.
National Trust Gift Shop
10.8 km
Discover unique, eco-friendly gifts and local artisan treasures in a historic Lacock High Street setting.
O L I V
10.8 km
Discover artisan candles, homewares, and unique gifts at O L I V, a charming boutique nestled in historic Lacock village.
Quintessentially English
10.9 km
A charming Wiltshire gift shop in Lacock, specializing in handmade soaps, candles, and artisanal beauty products with a distinctly English character.
CoCo Chemistry Chocolates
10.9 km
Handcrafted luxury chocolates in the historic village of Lacock, blending tradition, quality, and charm for a truly sweet experience.
Emery Gate Shopping Centre
12.0 km
Chippenham’s only covered shopping centre offering national brands, local shops, cafes, and ample parking in a convenient central location.
Natural Treats Wiltshire - Raw Dog Food Store
12.5 km
Premium raw dog food and natural treats in Melksham, serving conscious pet owners with expert nutrition guidance.
Willow Uk Ltd
15.5 km
Discover timeless gifts, antiques, and design inspiration at Willow UK Ltd, Corsham’s boutique blending art and heritage.
Previous Homewares
15.5 km
Discover quirky gifts, vintage treasures, and beautiful homewares at Corsham’s beloved boutique, Previous Homewares.
The India Shop
16.4 km
Discover vibrant fair trade treasures and authentic Indian craftsmanship in the heart of Marlborough’s charming market town.
White Stuff Marlborough
16.5 km
Discover timeless, sustainable fashion and accessories at White Stuff Marlborough on the historic High Street.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Ivy Inn
2.5 km
A traditional Wiltshire pub offering cozy charm, fresh food, real ales, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Heddington.
The White Horse Inn
5.2 km
Traditional Wiltshire pub and guesthouse offering homemade food, local ales, cosy rooms, and a warm countryside welcome in Compton Bassett.
The George Inn
6.0 km
A classic village pub in Sandy Lane offering hearty home-cooked meals, cozy rooms, and warm local hospitality.
Waggon & Horses
6.9 km
Historic 17th-century gastropub with cosy charm, scenic garden views of Silbury Hill, and a celebrated menu featuring local and gluten-free delights.
Westbrook Inn
6.9 km
Charming countryside pub near Chippenham offering extensive vegan options, hearty meals, and a warm, relaxed atmosphere.
Red Lion
8.3 km
A charming traditional pub in Avebury offering hearty food, local stories, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere near the ancient stone circles.
The Three Crowns
11.5 km
A lively, traditional pub in Chippenham known for real ales, live music, and a welcoming community spirit.
The Flying Monk
11.9 km
A friendly and lively pub in Chippenham’s Market Place, renowned for craft ales, community events, and warm hospitality.
The Cellar by Wine Monkey
12.0 km
A boutique wine bar and shop in Chippenham offering expertly curated wines, small plates, and a cozy, stylish atmosphere for wine lovers.
Old Road Tavern
12.3 km
A traditional Chippenham pub with quality ales, lively music, and a welcoming garden, cherished by locals and visitors alike.
The Wellesley Arms
14.0 km
Historic coaching inn turned gastropub offering hearty British fare and cozy village charm in Sutton Benger near Chippenham.
Melt Bars - Mobile Event & Cocktail Bars
16.5 km
Bespoke handcrafted mobile bars and expert cocktail service tailored for events across the UK from Chippenham’s premier specialists.
The Fox & Hounds
17.6 km
Quirky garden bar and lively pub in Wroughton offering hearty British fare, live music, and memorable community events.
The Somerford Arms
18.1 km
A family-run village pub in Little Somerford offering exceptional food, warm hospitality, and a charming countryside atmosphere.
The Quarrymans Arms, Box Hill
19.0 km
Charming countryside pub and boutique inn on Box Hill with stunning views, hearty local fare, and cozy rooms near Corsham and Bath.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
E11evn's Nightclub
12.2 km
A lively late-night hotspot in Chippenham offering weekend clubbing with a spirited local vibe and energetic dance floors.
Venue Five-0 Night Club
16.1 km
Energetic weekend nights and diverse music await at Venue Five-0 Night Club, Royal Wootton Bassett’s lively nightlife hotspot.
The Tub
25.1 km
A vibrant student nightclub on University of Bath campus, perfect for dancing, socializing, and late-night fun in a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
Labyrinth Bar & Nightclub
27.2 km
Experience Bath’s vibrant nightlife at Labyrinth Bar & Nightclub with four unique rooms, eclectic music, and a lively social atmosphere.
Second Bridge
27.2 km
A lively nightclub in Bath offering cocktails, shisha, and a buzzing beer garden for vibrant nightlife experiences.
Lomah
27.3 km
Experience Bath’s industrial-chic nightlife at Lomah, a stylish underground club with hip hop beats and a laidback vibe for 21+ guests.
Zero / Zero
27.4 km
Experience Bath’s vibrant nightlife at Zero / Zero, a cozy nightclub and cocktail lounge with a lively atmosphere and late-night beats.
Sub 13
27.5 km
Bath’s award-winning cocktail bar and nightclub offering masterclasses, vibrant nightlife, and a heated terrace in a stylish three-floor venue.
Komedia
27.5 km
Bath’s vibrant community-owned venue offering comedy, live music, cabaret, and more in a beautifully restored historic cinema.
ReVA Nightclub
34.7 km
Cirencester’s largest nightclub offering electrifying music, stylish cocktails, and a vibrant atmosphere for unforgettable nights.
Capones
40.9 km
Historic nightclub in Dursley with legendary ties to Al Capone, offering vibrant weekend nightlife and pulsating music.
Trio Nightclub
41.6 km
Experience Stroud’s vibrant nightlife at Trio Nightclub, where music, dancing, and energetic vibes light up weekend nights.
Dare to Club
42.4 km
Experience Bristol’s vibrant, inclusive nightlife at Dare to Club, where diverse music and welcoming vibes create unforgettable nights.
Motion
42.5 km
Bristol’s iconic warehouse nightclub, Motion, pulses with underground beats and community spirit, celebrating decades of electronic music culture.
The Loco Klub
43.0 km
An atmospheric subterranean arts venue in Brunel’s Temple Meads arches, where tunnels, brick vaults and intimate soundscapes host club nights, theatre and live music.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Panoramas
- Iconic Views
- Sunrise Spots
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Nature Escape
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
