Erlestoke combines church history dating back to the early 13th century with an 18-hole Downland-style golf course and a hollow sheltered to the north. When looking for a hotel in Erlestoke, it is worth planning your stay around these distinct aspects of the area: historic buildings, landscape and activities each offer a different focus.

Churches and Local History

A church in Erlestoke, associated with the former Church of St. James, is first mentioned in written sources around 1220. The present-day Church of the Holy Saviour was built in 1880, after the former Church of St. James had been demolished.

The Church of the Holy Saviour contains a 17th-century carved pulpit and six bells. Five of these were transferred from the Church of St. James and rehung in the new church building. The bells that were transferred thus preserve a tangible link to the former building.

The Church of the Holy Saviour is an active church and also a community space; a service is held there once a month. If you would like to combine your visit with a service, check the current service arrangements in advance.

The Church of St. James stood in the old churchyard, behind the present-day village hall. The churchyard is still there, adding another local connection to the history of the former church building.

Village History and Landscape

The Old School in Erlestoke has a different architectural history: the building was originally a country dairy for Erlestoke Park and dates from the early 19th century. It was extended in 1893 when it was converted into a village school.

The landscape is also shaped by local conditions. Erlestoke and its surroundings lie between an outcrop of greensand and Gault clay. Where water seeps through the chalk and meets the clay layer below, springs emerge. South of the village, the slope is interrupted by a stream valley; a higher spur of land extending from the west shelters the village to the north. Erlestoke therefore lies in a sheltered hollow.

Golf, Club Life and Paths

Erlestoke Golf Club offers an 18-hole Downland-style golf course, par 72 and 6,485 yards long. The course was established in 1992. Golf thus provides a distinct activity alongside the area's historical and landscape attractions.

Erlestoke Cricket Club is located in the old walled garden of Erlestoke Manor House, in the heart of Erlestoke Woods. The club runs a youth section for local children aged five to eleven and welcomes new members to play. For travellers interested in local club life, the club offers a different perspective on Erlestoke from its church history or golf course.

A parish map shows footpaths, bridleways and minor roads in the Erlestoke area. Erlestoke Woods is considered a place for walks. If you are planning a specific route, check local path and access conditions beforehand.

The Three Villages Minibus community bus serves Erlestoke as well as Bratton, Coulston and Edington. Before travelling, it is advisable to check the current service arrangements.

Discover more destinations: Stanton Saint Quintin, Alderbury, Hindon, Amesbury, Upavon, Temple, Shalbourne, Marlborough

For the main travel overview: Wiltshire.