Built on the site of an Iron Age fort, Malmesbury lies on the River Avon in the English county of Wiltshire. It’s famed for its abbey, which managed to survive the dissolution of the monasteries and is now a Scheduled Ancient Monument. At the time of the Domesday Book’s writing in 1086, Malmesbury was one of the most important towns in England due to its significance as a religious centre.
Things to do in Malmesbury
In the heart of Malmesbury is the Athelstan Museum, which explores the history of England’s oldest borough. Its wide-ranging collection includes industrial artefacts and antique coins from a Saxon mint, as well as paintings, engravings and old photographs. A highlight is the “Market Cross” drawing by Tom Girton, a contemporary of the Romantic painter, William Turner.
The real-life Market Cross dominates the north end of Malmesbury’s High Street, with this Grade I-listed monument dating back to the 15th century. Designed in an octagonal shape and intricately carved, it is believed to have been constructed using limestone salvaged from the Malmesbury Abbey. Records indicate that it was built to keep market folks dry on rainy days.
Don’t miss the Malmesbury Abbey, which is one of the oldest religious sites in England, with a history dating back to the 7th century. It was here that England’s first organ was built by Aldhelm, an aboot who went on to become the first saint of Essex. Marvel at its freestanding bell tower and 12th-century portal, which is superbly carved with figures depicting angels and apostles.
Getting around Malmesbury
Malmesbury is around 40 minutes’ drive from the centre of Bristol and an hour from Bristol Airport, which has flights to destinations across Europe. Regular buses connect to Malmesbury and the town centre is small enough to explore on foot.