Chilmark offers several distinct ways to explore local history and countryside: the quarrying of Chilmark stone, the Anglican parish church and a circular walk near Fonthill Lake. These themes differ considerably, from underground tunnels and chambers to datable phases of construction, views and wildlife watching. When planning your trip, you can therefore first decide whether architectural history, a recurring village event or the walk should be the main focus.
Quarries and Chilmark stone
Quarries for Chilmark stone were already in use in Roman times. Stone from these quarries was used in the construction of Salisbury Cathedral. This places the village’s history in the context of the extraction of local stone and its use as a building material. After centuries of quarrying, the quarries developed into an underground world of winding tunnels and fissures. Most of RAF Chilmark lies underground; the complex of tunnels and chambers covers 13 acres.
Church and historic buildings
The Church of St Margaret of Antioch is an Anglican parish church with fabric dating from the 13th, 14th and 18th centuries. T.H. Wyatt restored it in 1856; it is Grade II* listed. The century dates describe the building fabric, while 1856 is the year of restoration.
The Black Dog also offers a distinct perspective on Chilmark’s architectural history. The inn has building elements from the late 17th, 18th and 19th centuries. The front part of the building features chamfered beams with stepped stops. There is also an open fireplace with chamfered stone jambs and a chamfered lintel. Compared with the parish church, whose fabric spans three centuries, the periods at The Black Dog are also evident in its beams and fireplace. Chilmark House is a detached house dating from the late 17th and early 19th centuries.
Annual village events
A horticultural show takes place in Chilmark every year. Chilmark is also associated with an opera performed annually in a local barn. The exhibition and the stage event offer different reasons to choose when to visit. Specific event details may vary. If you want to plan your trip around one of these events, check the dates and details before making firm plans to visit.
Circular walk and Fonthill Lake
The Chilmark – Monarch's Way – Fonthill Bishop – Ridge circular walk starts at The Black Dog Inn in Chilmark. The route passes close to the long Fonthill Lake. The higher ground offers expansive views; striking scenery and wildlife watching along the lake are part of the walk. Different sections therefore appeal to different interests: the high ground offers far-reaching views, while the lake is ideal for observing nature. Check local conditions before setting out.
Discover more destinations: Ludgershall, Ansty, Whiteparish, Shalbourne, Netheravon, Temple, Potterne, Chippenham
For the main travel overview: Wiltshire.
