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The Coombes, Hinton Parva
Rare wildflowers and a myriad of butterflies
Bodyhorse Hill, Hinton Parva, Wiltshire, SN4 0DH
Opening times for 2 May 2024
Asset Opening time Coombes, Hinton Parva Dawn - Dusk MTWTFSS29301234567891011121314151617181920212223242526272829303112OpenPartially openClosedGravel car park. Bridleway along the valley side. Valley bottom is level but with tussocky grass making the ground uneven.
By road
Just north of the M4, come off at junction 15, onto A419, Hinton Parva is about 2 miles east, via Wanborough.
On foot
A bridleway runs from the north of the property, by Hinton Parva Village Hall, along the eastern edge to the Ridgeway and Foxhill
By train
Swindon train station is just over 6 miles from Hinton Parva
By bus
Thamesdown Transport, service number 47 runs from Swindon to Hinton Parva Village, walk south from City Corner to Bodyhorse Hill, the entrance is next to the Village Hall
By bicycle
The Ridgeway is a traffic free cycle route. Lanes from the Ridgeway will take you north west to Hinton Parva, where the property can be accessed via the Village Hall car park
Bodyhorse Hill, Hinton Parva, Wiltshire, SN4 0DH
Highlights
Dry Valley
A steep-sided chalk dry valley, supporting many species of butterflies and wildflowers, a tranquil place for a walk.
Strip lynchets
These are still visible on the sides of the coombes and date back to the medieval period to allow agriculture on the steep banks.
Butterlies
Many butterflies can be seen flitting between the wildflowers including Marsh Fritillaries between May and July.
Birds
Keep an eye out for birds swooping such as Red Kites, buzzards and those feeding on berries during autumn and winter.
Top trails
Trail
The Coombes Hinton Parva trail
Enjoy a long walk following parts of the Ridgeway National Trail and taking in the undulating scenery and chalk grassland wildlife of the Coombes.
Places to stay
Old Slaughter House
A charming cottage that’s perfect for a simple country break.
Lock Cottage
A charming and cosy Thames-side cottage with a pretty garden close to the Thames Path.
Fishlock's Cottage
A simple cottage for two, in the heart of Avebury’s prehistoric ramparts and stone circles.
About The Coombes, Hinton Parva
A steep-sided dry stream valley on the edge of the Marlborough Downs near Swindon. Valued as flower-rich unimproved chalk grassland and traditional hay meadow. On entering the site visitors will glimpse a small spring fed stream bordered by hedgerow and old willow pollards. The stream separates the main valley from a colourful hay meadow.
The site supports 23 butterfly species, and several uncommon plants which suggest the grassland has a long history of traditional management.
Support us
Volunteer with us
Search for live volunteering opportunities, or register your interest with The Coombes.