Cley Hill (National Trust) - Image 1
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Cley Hill Wiltshire

4.6
·319 reviews·Corsley, United Kingdom

Ascend Cley Hill for breathtaking panoramic views, ancient history, and a touch of mystery. A must-visit Wiltshire gem.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Clear mornings

Best views, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Cley Hill (National Trust) - Image 1

Cley Hill Wiltshire

Best Time

Clear mornings

Best views, fewer crowds

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Ascend Cley Hill for breathtaking panoramic views, ancient history, and a touch of mystery. A must-visit Wiltshire gem.

4.6
(319 reviews)

"Beautiful view at the top. Very good for kids as well as it is not too steep/high."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Free Parking Available

National Trust carpark offers free parking, but it's limited and fills up fast on busy days. Arrive early!

👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear

Trails can be steep and muddy, especially after rain. Good grip is essential for a safe and enjoyable hike.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic Wiltshire Vistas

Panoramic Wiltshire Vistas

Summit

Soak in breathtaking 360-degree views of the Warminster countryside and beyond. A truly rewarding sight!

Ancient Hillfort & Burial Mound

Ancient Hillfort & Burial Mound

Summit

Explore the remnants of a 2,500-year-old Iron Age hillfort and Bronze Age burial mound. History beneath your feet.

Crop Circle Phenomenon

Crop Circle Phenomenon

Base of the hill

Cley Hill is known as a UFO hotspot and has been the site of intriguing crop circles. Keep an eye out!

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit for the Best Views

Cley Hill offers stunning panoramic views, but timing is key. Consider visiting on a clear day for optimal scenery. Early mornings or late afternoons often provide softer light and fewer crowds, making for a more peaceful experience. Check the weather forecast before you go, as conditions can change rapidly in this exposed location.

Navigating Cley Hill's Terrain

While Cley Hill is accessible for families and dogs, be aware of the terrain. Some trails can be steep, especially the direct incline, and can become muddy and slippery when wet. Sturdy footwear is recommended, particularly if you plan to explore off the main paths. Keep dogs on a lead due to potential cattle grazing.

Best Times

When
Clear mornings
Why
Best views, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour light
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekdays
Why
Avoid weekend rush
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

#kingarthur #legend #myth #cleyhill #nationaltrust #badonhill #celticmythology #wonder
@peacocktalemusic
93 likes • 1.7K views

🚗 Free Parking Available

National Trust carpark offers free parking, but it's limited and fills up fast on busy days. Arrive early! Reddit

👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear

Trails can be steep and muddy, especially after rain. Good grip is essential for a safe and enjoyable hike. Reddit

Cley Hill #nationaltrust #cleyhill #englishcountry #nature #walks
@bethchristie0
40 likes • 458 views
A few miles from Warminster, Cley Hill is one of our favourite spots for a weekend walk. Just look at the spectacular views captured by @wandersthewild 🌤️ #cleyhill #whiteswiltshireworld #wiltshire #warminster #walk
whitesestateagents
11 likes • 420 views

🐶 Dog-Friendly (On Lead)

Great for dogs, but keep them on a lead due to potential cattle grazing on the hill. Reddit

⬆️ Steep vs. Gentle Ascent

Choose your path: a very steep direct climb or a longer, easier trek. Both offer rewarding views. Reddit

Not much sunshine but what a view from up here on Cley Hill @cleyhill #cleyhillwiltshire
bartystrading
13 likes • 311 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Free Parking Available

National Trust carpark offers free parking, but it's limited and fills up fast on busy days. Arrive early! Reddit

👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear

Trails can be steep and muddy, especially after rain. Good grip is essential for a safe and enjoyable hike. Reddit

🐶 Dog-Friendly (On Lead)

Great for dogs, but keep them on a lead due to potential cattle grazing on the hill. Reddit

⬆️ Steep vs. Gentle Ascent

Choose your path: a very steep direct climb or a longer, easier trek. Both offer rewarding views. Reddit

📸 Capture the Scenery

Bring your camera! The panoramic views and unique landscape are perfect for photography. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(319 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Cley Hill for its absolutely amazing views and rewarding hikes. The free parking and accessibility for families and dogs are significant positives. However, some note that the trails can be very narrow and slippery when wet, and the limited parking can be an issue on busy days.

"Beautiful view at the top. Very narrow trails on the edge of the hill, be careful when it's wet. Very good for kids as well as it is not too steep/high."

Jackline Sawe

"Hilly walk on Sunday a little challenging but doable with good views."

Claudette McDonald

"Great walk with amazing views.
Free parking, but is limited.
We parked fine but on a busy day, the car park would fill up very quickly.
Great for dogs, but on lead due to cattle."

Katie Lou

What People Like

Spectacular views
Free parking
Good for families

What People Dislike

Narrow, slippery trails
Limited parking

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Cley Hill is located west of Warminster in Wiltshire, England. The National Trust car park is at Corsley, Warminster BA12 7RE, offering free parking. It's easily accessible by car, and many visitors combine a trip with nearby attractions like the Westbury White Horse. Instagram+1

Public transport options to Cley Hill are limited. While buses may run to Warminster, you'll likely need to arrange a taxi or a longer walk from the nearest bus stops to reach the hill itself. Driving is the most convenient method. Reddit

You can reach the summit via a very steep direct incline or a longer, more gradual trek. The steep route is challenging but quicker, while the longer route is more accessible for a wider range of fitness levels. Reddit

While some may cycle up, the steepness and potentially uneven terrain make it challenging. It's more suited for hiking and walking. Mountain biking might be possible on certain paths, but check local regulations. Instagram

There are no specific opening hours for Cley Hill as it's an open natural landscape. However, visiting at night might be challenging due to lack of lighting and potential safety concerns. It's best enjoyed during daylight hours. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, entry to Cley Hill is free. There are no admission fees, and the National Trust car park also offers free parking, though it can get busy. InstagramReddit

Cley Hill is an open natural landscape and does not have set opening hours. You can visit at any time, but daylight hours are recommended for safety and the best experience. Instagram

There is no dedicated visitor center at Cley Hill. Information about the site's history and features is often found online or through local heritage resources. Reddit

Official guided tours are not commonly advertised. However, local walking groups or historical societies may occasionally organize events. It's best to check local listings or the National Trust website for any upcoming activities. Instagram

The main restriction is to respect the natural environment and historical significance. Dogs should be kept on a lead due to livestock. Be mindful of the steep drops on the hill's edges. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The main activities include hiking to the summit for panoramic views, exploring the ancient hillfort and burial mounds, and enjoying the natural landscape. It's also known as a UFO hotspot and has been the site of crop circles. Instagram+1

Yes, Cley Hill is generally good for families. While there's a very steep option, a longer, gentler trek is available. Toddlers have successfully navigated the steep parts with supervision, but caution is advised due to the sheer drops. Reddit

As a natural landscape, you might encounter various bird species and small mammals. The presence of cattle grazing is also common, so keeping dogs on a lead is important. Reddit

There are no public toilets or cafes directly at Cley Hill. Visitors should come prepared with water and snacks. The nearest facilities would be in Warminster or at nearby attractions. Reddit

Cley Hill is a significant historical site, featuring a 2,500-year-old Iron Age hillfort and Bronze Age burial mound. It's also noted for its association with UFO sightings and crop circles. Instagram+1

📸 📸 Photography

The summit offers incredible panoramic views, especially during sunrise and sunset, making it ideal for landscape photography. The ancient earthworks also provide unique photographic subjects. Instagram+1

Early mornings and late afternoons, particularly during the 'golden hour,' provide beautiful, soft light for photography. Clear days are essential for maximizing the panoramic views. Instagram+1

Drone usage is generally permitted in open spaces, but it's always advisable to check current regulations and be mindful of other visitors and wildlife. Some drone footage has been captured here. Instagram

The entire summit area provides excellent viewpoints. The edges of the hill offer dramatic perspectives, but exercise extreme caution due to steep drops. Reddit

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details in the distance. Consider a tripod for low-light conditions or long exposures. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Cley Hill is a fantastic destination for families looking for an outdoor adventure. While there's a very steep path, a gentler, longer route is available, making it accessible for most children. The open space at the top is perfect for kids to run around and explore. Remember to bring snacks and drinks, as there are no facilities on site. Keeping dogs on a lead is essential due to potential livestock. InstagramReddit

The historical aspect, with its ancient hillfort and burial mounds, can also spark children's imaginations. The legend of the 'fighting giants' or the mystery of crop circles might add an extra layer of excitement to the visit. Ensure children are supervised, especially near the edges of the hill due to steep drops. Instagram

🐶 Dog Owners

Cley Hill is a great spot for dog walkers, offering plenty of space for your canine companions to explore. However, it's crucial to keep your dog on a lead at all times. This is because cattle are often present grazing on the hill, and it's important to ensure the safety of both your dog and the livestock. InstagramReddit

The varied terrain means you can choose a walk that suits your dog's energy levels, from a brisk climb to a more leisurely stroll. The panoramic views are a bonus for you, and the open space is a joy for your dog. Just be mindful of the weather, as the hill can be exposed and muddy after rain.

🚶 Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts

For hikers, Cley Hill offers a rewarding experience with its challenging ascents and stunning natural beauty. The panoramic views from the summit are a major draw, providing breathtaking vistas of the Wiltshire countryside. Instagram+1 The presence of ancient earthworks adds a unique historical dimension to the hike, making it more than just a physical challenge. Instagram

Nature lovers will appreciate the open landscape and the opportunity to connect with the outdoors. The hill's exposed nature means you can experience dramatic skies and changing weather patterns. It's a perfect spot for those seeking tranquility and a chance to escape into nature. Consider exploring sections of the Mid Wilts Way for a longer trekking experience. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring Cley Hill's Ancient Past

Cley Hill is not just a scenic spot; it's a place steeped in history. The summit is crowned with a 2,500-year-old Iron Age hillfort and Bronze Age burial mounds. These ancient earthworks offer a tangible connection to the people who inhabited this landscape millennia ago. Walking amongst them, you can almost feel the echoes of the past. The strategic location of the hillfort suggests it was a place of defense or significant community gathering.

Beyond its prehistoric roots, Cley Hill has also gained a reputation as a UFO hotspot and has been the site of intriguing crop circles. This modern mystique adds another layer to the hill's allure, drawing in those fascinated by the unexplained. The combination of ancient history and contemporary mystery makes Cley Hill a unique destination for exploration and contemplation. Instagram+2

For those interested in local folklore, Cley Hill is sometimes referred to as 'created by the devil' or 'the resting place of two fighting giants,' adding a touch of local legend to its already captivating atmosphere. Instagram

Hiking and Walking Trails

Cley Hill offers a variety of walking experiences, catering to different fitness levels. The most direct route to the summit is a very steep incline, which provides a challenging but quick ascent. This path offers a sense of accomplishment and immediate rewarding views as you climb. However, it requires good stamina and is not recommended for those with mobility issues or very young children without close supervision. Reddit

For a more relaxed experience, there are longer, easier treks that wind their way up the hill. These paths are more gradual and allow for a more leisurely exploration of the surrounding countryside. They are ideal for families, casual walkers, or anyone who prefers to take their time and enjoy the scenery at a slower pace. Regardless of the route chosen, sturdy footwear is highly recommended, especially as the trails can become muddy and slippery after rain. InstagramReddit

Many visitors enjoy combining their Cley Hill walk with sections of the Mid Wilts Way, which passes nearby. This offers opportunities for extended hikes and further exploration of the beautiful Wiltshire countryside. Remember to check the weather forecast before you go, as conditions can change quickly on exposed hills. Instagram

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