Lockeridge Dene and Piggledene: Ancient Sarsen Stone Valleys of Wiltshire
Explore ancient sarsen stone valleys nestled in tranquil Wiltshire countryside, rich with natural beauty and prehistoric heritage.
Lockeridge Dene and Piggledene are two sheltered valleys near Marlborough, Wiltshire, featuring remarkable 'boulder streams' of ancient sarsen stones. These 30-million-year-old sandstone boulders, once used in iconic monuments like Stonehenge and Avebury, lie scattered across grasslands rich in rare lichens, mosses, and wildflowers. The peaceful natural setting, dotted with hawthorns, oak and ash trees, offers a unique glimpse into prehistoric geology and local heritage.
A brief summary to National Trust - Lockeridge Dene and Piggledene
- Lockeridge Ln, Marlborough, Lockeridge, SN8 4EQ, GB
- +441672539167
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 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
- Wear sturdy footwear as paths are natural and uneven, with some grazing cattle in summer.
- Parking is limited near Lockeridge Dene; consider parking in Lockeridge village for easier access.
- Visit in winter for unobstructed views of the stones and peaceful walking conditions.
- Bring a camera to capture the moss-covered stones framed by ancient trees and rural landscapes.
- Respect the delicate ecology by staying on paths and following Leave-No-Trace principles.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Car
Driving from Marlborough, the journey to Lockeridge Dene takes approximately 10-15 minutes. Parking is available in the village of Lockeridge, about 500 meters from the site entrance. Note that parking near Piggledene is limited, so plan accordingly. There is no parking directly at Piggledene, requiring a short walk from nearby streets.
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Bus
Local bus services connect Marlborough to Lockeridge village with a travel time of around 20-30 minutes depending on the route. Bus stops are located within walking distance of Lockeridge Dene. Service frequency may be limited on weekends and public holidays, so check schedules in advance.
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Walking
For those staying in Marlborough or nearby villages, walking to Lockeridge Dene is possible via rural footpaths and quiet lanes. Expect a 45-60 minute walk over uneven terrain with some gentle slopes. The route offers scenic views but is not suitable for wheelchairs or pushchairs.
National Trust - Lockeridge Dene and Piggledene location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Windy Conditions
Discover more about National Trust - Lockeridge Dene and Piggledene
Ancient Geological Marvels of Wiltshire
Lockeridge Dene and Piggledene are distinguished by their extensive 'boulder streams'—natural arrangements of sarsen stones deposited during the Ice Age over 30 million years ago. These large sandstone blocks were shaped and scattered by glacial movements and have since become a defining feature of the Marlborough Downs landscape. The sarsens here are the same type of stones historically used to construct Stonehenge and Avebury, linking these valleys to some of Britain's most famous prehistoric sites.Tranquil Valleys Rich in Biodiversity
The two valleys provide a sanctuary for rare lichens, mosses, and wildflowers, including orchids and meadow saxifrage that thrive between the stones. Windblown hawthorns, majestic oaks, and ash trees dot the valley floors, enhancing the serene atmosphere. Seasonal changes bring diverse experiences: cattle graze in summer, while winter unveils open fields and former riverbeds lined with tall grasses. This natural setting supports a variety of insects and butterflies, contributing to the ecological richness.Historical and Cultural Significance
The National Trust acquired these sites over a century ago to preserve one of the last unspoiled boulder fields in the region, protecting both natural heritage and archaeological interest. The stones have witnessed millennia of human presence, with the landscape evoking a sense of timelessness and mystery. The nearby thatched cottages and misty hillsides frame the stones, offering visitors a glimpse into the rural heritage of Wiltshire.Visitor Experience and Exploration
Visitors can explore the gentle valleys on foot, wandering among moss-covered stones and ancient trees. The terrain is natural and uneven, with grazing cattle in summer adding to the pastoral charm. While parking is limited near Lockeridge Dene, the village offers safe parking areas. Piggledene lies adjacent to the busy A4 road, requiring a short walk from nearby parking. The sites are peaceful and contemplative, ideal for those interested in geology, history, and nature.Conservation and Access
Lockeridge Dene and Piggledene are managed to maintain their ecological and historical integrity. The National Trust encourages visitors to respect the delicate habitats and follow Leave-No-Trace principles. Access is open year-round, with no formal opening hours, allowing visitors to experience the sites in all seasons. The valleys are best suited to walkers comfortable with natural terrain; they are not wheelchair or pushchair accessible.Setting Within Wiltshire’s Sacred Landscape
Situated near world-renowned Neolithic and Bronze Age monuments, these valleys form part of a larger sacred landscape in South West England. The presence of sarsen stones here connects Lockeridge Dene and Piggledene to the wider prehistoric narrative of the region, offering a quieter, less-visited complement to the famous stone circles. Their natural beauty and ancient origins provide a unique window into the geological and cultural history of Wiltshire.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Lord Wantage Monument
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Highgrove Gardens
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Cirencester Park
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hotcotswolds.uk
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Things To Do In The Cotswolds
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Rodmarton Long Barrow
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Abbey Grounds Park
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Sham Castle
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Bath Skyline
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Sydney Gardens
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Barnsley Park
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Bath Pavilion
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Henrietta Park
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Arlington Row
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Unmissable attractions to see
West Woods
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The Devil's Den
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Explore the enigmatic Neolithic dolmen of The Devil's Den, a quiet ancient monument nestled among Wiltshire's sarsen stones and rolling chalk downs.
The Sanctuary
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West Kennet Long Barrow
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Silbury Hill
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Explore Silbury Hill, Europe's largest prehistoric chalk mound, a monumental mystery towering over the Wiltshire landscape since 2400 BC.
Avebury
5.2 km
Explore Avebury, the world’s largest Neolithic stone circle, a monumental prehistoric landscape of mystery, ritual, and enduring heritage.
National Trust Museum
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National Trust - Avebury Manor
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The Alton Barnes White Horse
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Windmill Hill, Avebury
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Hackpen White Horse
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Barbury Castle Country Park
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Pewsey White Horse
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Oldbury Castle Hillfort
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Cherhill White Horse
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Essential places to dine
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Sign of the Angel
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The Woodspeen Restaurant
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The Old Boathouse
30.5 km
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Damson Restaurant
31.2 km
An intimate, sustainably driven dining experience in a beautifully transformed historic pub in Winterbourne, Newbury.
Restaurant 56
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Elegant British fine dining in a historic 17th-century coaching inn set within tranquil gardens on the edge of the Cotswolds.
Grey's Brasserie
31.8 km
Sophisticated yet relaxed dining at Whatley Manor, featuring globally inspired small plates and traditional Sunday roasts in a stunning Cotswolds setting.
Bybrook
32.1 km
Michelin-starred modern British fine dining in a historic Cotswold manor with fresh, seasonal produce from its own kitchen garden.
GOAT ON THE ROOF
32.3 km
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Bunk Inn Pub & Dining
34.7 km
A charming Berkshire country pub blending Mediterranean-inspired dining with classic British hospitality in the heart of Curridge.
The Ox Barn
36.3 km
Experience modern British countryside cuisine in a beautifully restored 19th-century oxen house nestled in the tranquil Cotswold village of Southrop.
MBB BRASSERIE
36.6 km
Stylish modern British brasserie in Cirencester’s historic Corn Hall, serving classic and contemporary dishes in a vibrant open kitchen setting.
Bella Luna
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Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality at Bella Luna, Thatcham’s vibrant Italian restaurant on High Street.
Bathampton Mill Bath
37.1 km
Historic riverside gastropub blending traditional British charm with scenic views and modern dining near Bath.
The Garden Restaurant
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Refined modern British dining with scenic walled garden views in the heart of historic Stratton House Hotel, Cirencester.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The India Shop
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White Stuff Marlborough
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Curate
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Elements of Avebury
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Avebury Community Shop
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The Henge Shop
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National Trust shop
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The Gift Box
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The Wiltshire Gift Co
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Rowans Closet Arcadia
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Something Different Gift Shop
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Primark
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The Parade
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O L I V
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Red Lion
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Waggon & Horses
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The White Horse Inn
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The Fox & Hounds
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The Bell
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The Ivy Inn
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The Hop Inn
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The Tuppenny
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Swindon’s cozy craft beer haven with quirky charm, live music, and a vibrant social scene for all beer lovers and culture seekers.
Eighteen Bar & Lounge
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The Vault
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1101 Cocktail Bar
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Longs Bar
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The George Inn
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Westbrook Inn
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The Three Crowns
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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E11evn's Nightclub
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ReVA Nightclub
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The Tub
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Labyrinth Bar & Nightclub
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Second Bridge
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Lomah
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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
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Sub 13
39.8 km
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Komedia
39.8 km
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Trio Nightclub
47.8 km
Experience Stroud’s vibrant nightlife at Trio Nightclub, where music, dancing, and energetic vibes light up weekend nights.
Capones
49.6 km
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Kiss Bar
52.9 km
An intimate late-night club in Oxford known for its vibrant atmosphere and close-knit party scene until its recent closure.
ATIK Oxford
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Oxford Leisure Ltd
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunrise Spots
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Protected Area
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Photowalk
- Myth & Legends
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
- Pet Friendly
