The Surrounding Area
Malmesbury Town
Just three miles from Whatley Manor this ancient town with its quaint high street has a lot to offer. It is one of England’s oldest boroughs and home to the historic Malmesbury Abbey, parts of which can be traced back to 676AD when a monastery was first established on the site by Aldhelm, but the present building dates from the 12th century and there is also the Malmesbury Abbey gardens to visit.
The Cotswold Town of Tetbury
Six miles from Whatley Manor is the town of Tetbury considered one of the most beautiful parts of the Cotswolds with a town steeped in history that dates back to a pre-historic time. Through the Middle Ages Tetbury’s market grew in reputation as the centre for the best Cotswold wool and yarn with visitors traveling from as far as London and Bath to buy its valuable commodity. Today, Tetbury has historic buildings, an abundance of elegant antique shops and boutiques, cafes, restaurants and a delicatessen.
Westonbirt Arboretum
Three miles from Whatley Manor is the national Westonbirt Arboretum, a wonderful oasis of trees and shrubs showcased from all over the world. Producing 600 acres of beautifully landscaped countryside and making it one of the finest tree collections in the world. However, it is the combination of wild flowers, fungi, birds and animals, as well as the trees, that make Westonbirt such a special place to so many people. This rich diversity of plant and animal life makes the Arboretum truly a place to visit at every season of the year. Westonbirt is open all year from 10.00am to 8.00pm.
Castle Combe
Ten miles from Whatley Manor is the village of Castle Combe, recognised as the ‘Prettiest Village in England' with good reason. Visitors have been enjoying its charms for at least a century and the small street leading from the Market Cross down to the By Brook is as picturesque today as it ever was. The village houses are listed as ancient monuments typical of Cotswold type construction and are many hundreds of years old. Strict rules apply to preserve the beauty and character of Castle Combe for later generations.
Cirencester
Fifteen miles from Whatley Manor and only twenty-five minutes drive is Cirencester well known as the "Capital of the Cotswolds". This Roman market town is considered the heart of the Cotswolds with attractions from a Roman Ampitheatre to the nearby Roman Villa. The Corinium Museum is an important source of information on the local history. The high street is perfect for an afternoon of browsing or shopping, with some high street brands and boutique shopping malls.
Lacock
Sixteen miles from Whatley Manor and almost entirely owned by the National Trust, preserved as a medieval village is the village of Lacock. It's easy to see why Lacock has been featured in many period dramas including the magical ‘Harry Potter’ films - with the limewashed, half-timbered and stone houses offering the perfect backdrop. The houses are lived in and it’s worth exploring the shops in the centre of the village including a crafts co-operative. Do visit the magnificent Lacock Abbey and Fox Talbot Museum.
The Roman City of Bath
Twenty two miles and thirty five minutes drive from Whatley Manor is the golden Roman city of Bath as it is sometimes called for its golden coloured buildings, offers a diverse mix of culture and history. The historic City of Bath has been welcoming visitors for over 2000 years. Designated by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, Bath presents some of the finest architectural sights in Europe such as the Royal Crescent, the Circus and Pulteney Bridge alongside a diverse collection of museums and attractions including the Roman Baths. The city centre offers all the high street brands and plenty of fashion boutiques.
Local Pubs and Restaurants
Locally there are many fine Cotswold pubs and restaurants serving great fare and well worth a visit during your stay with us. If you are planning to explore the area, Reception will advise and make arrangements and reservations on your behalf. It is advised to book taxis as early as possible to ensure the smooth running of your day or evening out.