
Milk Hill and Tan Hill
Highest point in Wiltshire offering vast chalk downland views, famous for crop circles and ancient history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Magical light & fewer crowds

Milk Hill and Tan Hill
Best Time
Magical light & fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Highest point in Wiltshire offering vast chalk downland views, famous for crop circles and ancient history.
"Breathtaking views, an amazing walk and the very best of the Wiltshire countryside."

🥾 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Chalky paths can get slippery. Wear good walking boots for comfort and safety on the hills.
☀️ Pack for All Weather
The weather can change rapidly. Bring layers, waterproofs, and sun protection, even on seemingly clear days.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic Wiltshire Views
Summit of Milk Hill
Experience the highest point in Wiltshire with sweeping vistas of the rolling chalk downs and surrounding countryside.

Historic Crop Circle Sites
Fields around Milk Hill
Explore the area famous for some of the world's largest and most intricate crop circles, a truly unique phenomenon.

Wansdyke and Rybury Camp
Along the walking routes
Walk along ancient earthworks like the Wansdyke and explore the Iron Age hillfort of Rybury Camp for a dose of history.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Elements
Timing Your Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Chalky paths can get slippery. Wear good walking boots for comfort and safety on the hills.
☀️ Pack for All Weather
The weather can change rapidly. Bring layers, waterproofs, and sun protection, even on seemingly clear days.
This is One of the Largest crop circles ever stretching over 500 meters wide... Milk hill, June 2009.
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera for stunning sunrises, sunsets, and the vast chalk landscapes.
🗺️ Explore the Circular Walks
Many visitors enjoy longer circuits incorporating the White Horse and ancient sites.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Chalky paths can get slippery. Wear good walking boots for comfort and safety on the hills.
☀️ Pack for All Weather
The weather can change rapidly. Bring layers, waterproofs, and sun protection, even on seemingly clear days.
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera for stunning sunrises, sunsets, and the vast chalk landscapes.
🗺️ Explore the Circular Walks
Many visitors enjoy longer circuits incorporating the White Horse and ancient sites.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the breathtaking views and the spiritual, epic quality of the landscape at Milk Hill and Tan Hill. The area is highly regarded for its natural beauty, historical significance including crop circles, and the sense of remote tranquility it offers. Some find the terrain challenging and facilities scarce, but the overall experience is overwhelmingly positive.
"Great walk as part of the pewsey circular"
Lewis K
"A beautiful and historic landscape..can't believe anyone wouldn't give this 5 stars."
Ian Thomas
"I had one of the most magical nights of my life here. Back in 1992 i was in love with a Marlborough girl. I came to see her (i'm from Lancashire) and we spent a Summer's night sleeping atop Milk Hill. When i awoke the next morning, in golden sunshine, the first thing i saw - after Susannah's smiling face, that is - was the crop circle someone had made in the field below us. I was gobsmacked. I'd give anything to experience those few moments again.
"If you see her, say hello...""
Martin Peacock
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Milk Hill and Tan Hill are best accessed by car, with parking available at various points near the Pewsey Downs. Public transport options are limited, so driving is recommended for flexibility.
Parking is available in lay-bys and designated areas along the country lanes surrounding Milk Hill and Tan Hill. Be mindful of where you park to avoid obstructing local access.
Yes, cycling is a popular way to explore the area, especially for those interested in longer routes. The rolling hills offer a good challenge for cyclists.
Public transport is scarce. The nearest train station is Pewsey, from which you would likely need a taxi or a very long walk to reach the hills.
Using a map and compass or a reliable GPS device is advisable, especially for longer walks. Trails can be indistinct in places.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Milk Hill and Tan Hill are open access countryside and do not require tickets for entry. You can explore freely.
As open countryside, there are no set opening or closing times. You can visit at any time, though visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and enjoyment.
There is no entrance fee for the fields where crop circles appear. However, always be respectful of private farmland and do not trespass.
While official guided tours are rare, local walking groups may organize events. It's best to check local community boards or websites for any scheduled walks.
Crop circles typically appear in late spring and summer. The best time to see them is when they are freshly formed and clearly visible from a distance.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The terrain is primarily rolling chalk grassland. Expect uneven ground, slopes, and potentially muddy or slippery conditions after rain.
Facilities are very limited. It's advisable to bring your own food, water, and any necessary supplies. There are no cafes or public toilets directly on the hills.
While the open space is great for kids to run, the uneven terrain and lack of facilities might make it challenging for very young children or those with mobility issues.
You might spot various bird species, butterflies, and other chalk grassland wildlife. The area is a haven for nature.
Yes, due to its remote location and minimal light pollution, Milk Hill and Tan Hill are excellent spots for stargazing.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit offers expansive panoramic views. The rolling hills themselves, especially with dramatic skies, make for stunning landscape photography.
Golden hour, around sunrise and sunset, provides the most dramatic and beautiful light for capturing the landscape.
Yes, crop circles are a unique photographic subject. Remember to be respectful of the land and avoid disturbing the crops.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a telephoto lens can be useful for capturing details or distant features. A tripod is helpful for low-light conditions.
Generally, photography is permitted. However, always be mindful of private property and any specific signage.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
However, be mindful of the terrain. The chalky ground can be uneven and slippery, so ensure children wear sturdy shoes. While the open space is exciting, supervision is key, especially near any steeper slopes. Consider shorter walks that focus on the most accessible areas to keep younger ones engaged and safe.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Walkers
Be prepared for varied conditions. The chalk grassland can be beautiful but also challenging underfoot. Always carry water, snacks, and a map. The Wansdyke and Rybury Camp offer historical points of interest along many routes, adding an extra dimension to your walk.
📸 Photographers
Don't miss the chance to capture the unique phenomenon of crop circles if they are present. A wide-angle lens is ideal for the sweeping vistas, while a telephoto can capture distant details. Be prepared for changing weather, as dramatic clouds can add significant mood to your shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Chalk Downs
Walking routes here are plentiful, ranging from short strolls to more challenging circuits. Many popular walks incorporate nearby landmarks such as the Alton Barnes White Horse and the ancient Wansdyke. The chalky soil supports a unique flora and fauna, making it a haven for butterflies and birds. It's crucial to wear appropriate footwear, as the ground can be uneven and slippery, especially after rain.
These hills are also historically significant, with evidence of human activity dating back to the Iron Age. The presence of hillforts like Rybury Camp and the mysterious crop circles adds layers of intrigue to the landscape. Whether you're seeking a vigorous hike or a peaceful escape, the chalk downs offer a profound connection with nature and history.
The Mystery of Crop Circles
Some of the largest and most complex crop circles have been documented in the fields below Milk Hill, drawing visitors and researchers alike. The sheer scale and precision of these formations are awe-inspiring. Experiencing them firsthand, especially when freshly formed, can be a truly memorable event.
When visiting, it's important to remember that these fields are private farmland. While there's no entry fee to view crop circles from the perimeter, always respect the land, avoid trespassing, and do not damage the crops. The best way to appreciate them is often from a distance or during guided walks that respect agricultural boundaries.




Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit