Explore
Wiltshire is a county steeped in history that is very much alive in the present. Below is a small selection of the many local attractions that are within a stone’s throw of The Bruce.
Walking
The Bruce Arms offers direct access to miles upon miles of maintained walkways in the beautiful surround countryside. You don’t even need to cross a road to start your walk!
You’ll find some suggestions for walks in the Pewsey Vale at the links below…
Cycling
The Vale of Pewsey, centred on the village of Pewsey, has some fantastic cycling. From quiet country lanes to challenging hill climbs. The network of bridlepaths is also great for those who want to go off-road, as are the canal tow paths for those who want a gentler off-road experience.
We are situated directly on Cycle Route 4, halfway between Bristol and Reading, which makes The Bruce the perfect stopping off point for weary legs!
Fly Fishing
Manningford Trout Fishery is only a five mile drive from The Bruce Arms. They have two lakes for Rainbow Trout ‘catch and keep’, and a small river for Brown Trout ‘catch and release’.
Shooting
Widdington Shoot at Upavon is a clay pigeon venue open to anyone – you don’t need to be a member. They offer game, clay, archery and tuition. Only seven miles from The Bruce Arms.
Canals
The Kennet and Avon canal is roughly one mile north of The Bruce Arms and a very pleasant walk to it starts at the track that runs past the pub. A great place to walk or cycle.
Other Things To Do
Stonehenge
Only 17 miles from the pub, Stonehenge is a must see. Estimated at 3100 BC, it’s one of Wiltshire’s treasures and an internationally renowned archaeological site which should be on everyone’s ‘things to see before you die’ list.
Avebury
Avebury henge and stone circles are one of the greatest marvels of prehistoric Britain. Built roughly between 2850 BC and 2200 BC, the henge survives as a huge circular bank and ditch, encircling part of Avebury village and the largest stone circle in Britain. And only 16 miles north west of The Bruce. Free entry, loads of parking and stones you can get up close and personal with.
Silbury Hill
Very close to Avebury you’ll find Silbury Hill. The largest man-made mound in Europe, mysterious Silbury Hill compares in height and volume to the roughly contemporary Egyptian pyramids and was probably completed in around 2400 BC. Though clearly important in itself, its purpose and significance remain unknown.
Old Sarum & Salisbury Cathedral
Only 23 miles from The Bruce Arms. Old Sarum was originally thought to have been an Iron age settlement, Old Sarum has over the years been used by the Romans, Saxons and Normans. This is the site of the original Salisbury Cathedral before work began on the new Cathedral in the 13th century.
A visit to Old Sarum can be combined with a visit to Salisbury (it sits right on the outskirt of Salisbury), one of Wiltshire’s must-visit cities.
Longleat Safari Park
The world famous Safari Park offers an amazing day out for all the family. At just over 30 miles from The Bruce Arms, Longleat should definitely be on your list of ‘things to do’.
Crop Circles
Wiltshire is famed for its crop circles and the Pewsey Vale is crop circle central! Find out more at the link below…
Crofton Beam Engines
Visit the oldest working steam engines in the world, still performing the job they were built to do, pumping water back to the top of the canal. There are two beam engines, one of which is an original 200-year-old Boulton & Watt. These are magnificent pieces of industrial archaeology, appealing to both families and steam enthusiasts. Working history at its finest.
Wiltshire White Horses
Walk the famous Wessex White Horses. Click the link below for an excellent guide…