Devizes Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, see, and taste in Devizes, along with practical tips for your visit, in this complete travel guide.


Introduction to Devizes

Located in the heart of Wiltshire, Devizes is a charming market town known for its rich history, picturesque countryside, and quintessential British charm. Visitors will find plenty of things to do in Devizes, such as exploring historic landmarks, hiking or biking along scenic routes, and soaking up the local culture. Here’s a comprehensive guide to Devizes to help you plan your next trip.

List of Places to Visit in Devizes

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Devizes is a town steeped in history, with plenty of museums and historical sites to explore. Must-visit attractions include:

  • Wiltshire Museum: This award-winning museum showcases the history of Wiltshire, featuring exhibits on archaeology, geology, and art.

  • Kennet & Avon Canal Museum: Learn about the history of the 18th-century canal and its role in the Industrial Revolution.

  • Devizes Castle, Museum and Heritage Centre: Discover the history of Devizes and visit the 12th-century castle ruins.

  • Market Cross: A 19th-century landmark in the town center, this former market cross is a symbol of Devizes’ history.

Natural Attractions of Devizes: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Nature lovers will find plenty of outdoor adventures and scenic views to explore in Devizes. Not-to-be-missed attractions include:

  • Caen Hill Locks: A set of 29 locks on the Kennet and Avon Canal, offering breathtaking views and a great spot for a picnic.

  • Roundway Down: Known for its stunning panoramic views and chalky grasslands, Roundway Down is a favorite among hikers and nature enthusiasts.

  • Devizes White Horse: This chalk figure of a horse is a part of the Wiltshire White Horse Trail, and offers beautiful views over the town.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Devizes

Devizes and the surrounding countryside offer fantastic opportunities for hiking and biking. Here are some of the best routes to explore:

  • The Wansdyke Path: A 64-mile trail that runs from Bath to Marlborough, passing through Devizes and offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

  • The Kennet and Avon Canal Path: A 94-mile trail that follows the canal from Reading to Bristol, passing through Devizes and offering picturesque canal-side views.

Best Things to Do in Devizes: Activities and Tours

There’s plenty of activities and tours on offer in Devizes:

  • Brewery tours: Visit the Wadworth Brewery and learn about the history of brewing in Devizes, while sampling some of the local craft beers.

  • Ghost Tours: Take a spooky ghost tour around the town and hear tales of Devizes’ haunted past.

Week-Long Itinerary for Devizes

Here’s a sample week-long itinerary for your visit to Devizes:

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore the town center, visit Market Cross, and take a brewery tour
Day 2 Visit Wiltshire Museum and Devizes Castle, Museum and Heritage Centre
Day 3 Hike Roundway Down and Caen Hill Locks
Day 4 Take a bike ride along Kennet and Avon Canal Path
Day 5 Visit the nearby town of Marlborough
Day 6 Take a ghost tour of Devizes
Day 7 Relax and enjoy the local food and drink scene

Food and Drink Scene of Devizes

Devizes offers plenty of options for food and drink, from cozy pubs to gourmet restaurants. Here’s what you should taste and try:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Wiltshire ham: A specialty of the region, this cooked ham is served with mustard and crusty bread.

  • Devizes Pie: A savory pie filled with lamb, potatoes, and carrots, and traditionally served with a side of mushy peas.

Local Beverages

  • Wadworth Beer: The local brewery produces some of the best beer in the region. The 6X is a popular choice, but don’t miss out on trying their seasonal brews.

Where to Stay in Devizes: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Devizes offers a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels. Some of the most comfortable options include:

  • The Peppermill: A charming boutique hotel with elegant rooms and a stylish restaurant.

  • The Black Swan: This 18th-century hotel offers cozy rooms, a welcoming pub, and a lovely garden.

What to Buy in Devizes: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Visitors to Devizes will find plenty of souvenirs and local products to bring home, such as:

  • Devizes Gin: Made using local botanicals, Devizes Gin is the perfect gift for gin lovers.

  • Wiltshire Honey: This locally sourced honey is made from wildflowers and has a unique, floral flavor.

Local Culture and Customs of Devizes

Devizes is known for its warm hospitality and traditional British culture. A few customs and traditions to note include:

  • Pubs: Devizes has a rich pub culture, and visiting a local pub is a great way to experience the town’s social scene.

Best Time to Visit Devizes

The best time to visit Devizes is during the spring and summer months, when the weather is mild and outdoor activities are in full swing. Autumn is also a great time to visit for the foliage.

Do’s and Don’ts of Devizes

Do:

  • Enjoy a pint of local beer: Wadworth Brewery produces some of the best beer in the region.

  • Explore the countryside: Devizes is surrounded by stunning countryside, so make sure to take a hike or bike ride to enjoy the views.

Don’t:

  • Forget to try the local specialties: Devizes has some delicious culinary specialties, such as Wiltshire ham and Devizes Pie.

Safety and Health

Safety in Devizes

Devizes is a safe town to visit, with a low crime rate. However, visitors should take standard precautions to ensure their safety, such as staying aware of their surroundings at night.

Health in Devizes

Devizes has good healthcare facilities, including a hospital and several pharmacies. Visitors from outside the UK should ensure they have appropriate travel insurance for their trip.

Getting to Devizes: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Devizes

The nearest airport to Devizes is Bristol Airport, located around an hour away by car.

Bus Stations Near Devizes

Devizes is well-connected by bus, with regular services running to nearby towns and cities.

Other Options

Visitors can also travel to Devizes by train, with the nearest train station located in nearby Pewsey.

How to Get Around in Devizes

Devizes is a small town and can easily be explored on foot. Visitors can also use local bus services or hire a bike to explore the surrounding countryside.

Where to Go Next from Devizes: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Devizes is located in the heart of Wiltshire, with plenty of nearby destinations to explore:

  • Salisbury: Home to the famous Salisbury Cathedral and Stonehenge, Salisbury is a historic city steeped in fascinating history.

  • Marlborough: Just a short drive from Devizes, Marlborough is a charming market town known for its antique shops and independent boutiques.

Conclusion

A visit to Devizes is a must for anyone interested in experiencing the best of quintessential English charm and natural beauty. From the town’s rich history to its picturesque countryside, there’s something for every type of traveler in Devizes.

Market Square Market Square Central flight of 16 of Caen Hill Locks Central flight of 16 of Caen Hill Locks