Pewsey Downs National Nature Reserve

A wonderful sweep of chalk downland located to the north of the Pewsey Vale and in the North Wessex Downs National Landscape.

The reserve covers three hills and includes Alton Barnes White Horse cut into the chalk hillside. There are great opportunities for wildlife and landscape photography with views stretching across the Vale of Pewsey to Salisbury Plain.

Pewsey Downs National Nature Reserve is also part of a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), recognising the range of chalk grassland plants and the associated butterflies (28 species).

While you are there, also look out for the Sarsen stones, known locally as ‘Grey Weathers’.

Other magnificent examples of chalk downland can be found at Cherhill Down, Barbury Castle, Seven Barrows at Lambourn, Walbury Hill and Beacon Hill.