Malmesbury Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, eat, stay, and more in Malmesbury with our travel guide.


Introduction to Malmesbury

Malmesbury is a picturesque market town located in the county of Wiltshire, in West Country, England. Known for its rich history, charming river walks, and ancient abbey ruins, Malmesbury has something to offer for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or a family-friendly adventure, this town won’t disappoint. So let’s dive in and explore Malmesbury’s top attractions, activities, and more!

List of Places to Visit in Malmesbury

Here’s a list of the best places to visit in Malmesbury, split into two categories:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Malmesbury Abbey
  • Athelstan Museum
  • Westport Lake
  • Abbey House Gardens
  • Garden Cafe

Natural Attractions of Malmesbury: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • River Avon Trail
  • Malmesbury Market Cross
  • Folly Tower and Viewpoint
  • The Old Bell Hotel
  • Malmesbury Town Hall

Hiking/Biking Routes of Malmesbury

If you’re a fan of hiking or biking, Malmesbury has plenty of scenic routes for you to explore. The most popular ones include:

  • The Wiltshire Cycleway
  • The Thames Path
  • The Cotswold Way
  • The Macmillan Way

Best Things to Do in Malmesbury: Activities and Tours

The following are some of the top things to do in Malmesbury:

  • Take a guided tour of Malmesbury Abbey
  • Explore the Athelstan Museum
  • Visit Westport Lake and enjoy a scenic boat ride
  • Stroll through Abbey House Gardens
  • Attend a local market

Week-Long Itinerary for Malmesbury

If you’re planning to spend a week in Malmesbury and the surrounding area, here’s a suggested itinerary that covers most of the top attractions:

Day Activity
1 Visit Malmesbury Abbey and Athelstan Museum
2 Explore River Avon Trail or Cotswold Way
3 Take a scenic boat ride at Westport Lake
4 Visit Abbey House Gardens and The Old Bell Hotel
5 Take a guided tour of Malmesbury Town Hall
6 Take a day trip to nearby Bath
7 Attend a local market and take a hike in the surrounding hills

Food and Drink Scene of Malmesbury

Malmesbury is known for its excellent food and drink. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Wiltshire bacon
  • Bath chaps
  • Wiltshire Lardy Cake
  • Flatbread made in wood-fired ovens

Local Beverages

  • Local cider
  • Saxon Mead
  • Wadworth Brewery beer

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

Malmesbury has a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and tastes. Here are our top picks:

  • The Old Bell Hotel
  • The Kings Arms Hotel
  • The Kings Head Hotel
  • Malmesbury Youth Hostel
  • The Rose and Crown

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

When it comes to souvenirs and local products, here are some things you might want to bring back home:

  • Malmesbury pottery
  • Honey from local apiaries
  • Wiltshire liqueurs
  • Locally sourced cheeses and meats

Local Culture and Customs of Malmesbury

Malmesbury has a long and fascinating history, and the town’s culture and customs reflect this. From traditional street markets to the many medieval buildings, the town boasts a rich heritage. The locals are proud of their town and are happy to share their knowledge and stories with visitors.

Best Time to Visit Malmesbury

The best time to visit Malmesbury is in the summer months, from June through August. This is the time when the town comes alive with local events and markets. The weather is also most favorable during this time of year.

Do’s and Don’ts of Malmesbury

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Malmesbury:

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions
  • Explore the outdoor attractions
  • Visit the local markets

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the natural environment
  • Disrespect local customs or beliefs
  • Leave valuables unattended in public areas

Safety and Health

Malmesbury is a safe and healthy town to visit. However, it’s always best to take precautions when traveling. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

Safety in Malmesbury

  • Carry a mobile phone with you at all times
  • Take care when walking or cycling on unfamiliar routes
  • Be aware of traffic when crossing roads

Health in Malmesbury

  • Bring along any necessary medication
  • Drink bottled water if you’re sensitive to local water sources

Getting to Malmesbury: Transportation Options and Logistics

Malmesbury is easily accessible from nearby cities. Here are some transportation options to consider:

Airports Near Malmesbury

  • Bristol Airport
  • Heathrow Airport
  • Birmingham Airport

Bus Stations Near Malmesbury

  • Malmesbury Bus Station
  • Swindon Bus Station

Other Options

  • Uber or taxi services
  • Car rentals

How to Get Around in Malmesbury

Walking or cycling is the best way to get around Malmesbury. The town is quite compact, and most attractions are easily accessible on foot.

Where to Go Next from Malmesbury: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to explore more of the surrounding area, here are some nearby destinations worth visiting:

  • Bath
  • Gloucester
  • Cirencester
  • Bristol

Conclusion

Malmesbury is a wonderful destination for anyone looking for a peaceful break. Whether you’re a history buff, outdoor enthusiast, or just looking for a change of scenery, Malmesbury has something for everyone. Here in this comprehensive guide, we’ve covered everything you need to know to make the most of your visit!

Malmesbury abbey survived the test of time rather well, with only parts of it ruined. Malmesbury abbey survived the test of time rather well, with only parts of it ruined. M4 M4 A350 A350