In Sherston, medieval history can be seen not only in individual buildings: the burgage plots are still clearly visible in the properties along the High Street. Other highlights include the Church of the Holy Cross, Balcony House and the Sherston Streams walk, which follows two tributaries of the River Avon. This takes you from the village’s historic layout to a walk with the possibility of birdwatching.

Historic Structures in the Village Layout

The older part of Sherston lies on a spur formed by the Sherston branch of the River Avon. The medieval borough was laid out around a large main street or marketplace, with burgage plots on either side. These plots are still clearly visible in the properties along the High Street. Thus, alongside individual buildings, the layout of the village also offers a way into its history: the central street or marketplace and the properties arranged on either side are part of the same picture.

Balcony House was rebuilt in the late 17th century and appears to be the only surviving building from Sherston’s medieval period. One house therefore brings together two points in time: the village’s medieval history and a later phase of construction.

Church and Athelstan Trail

The Church of the Holy Cross adds two datable details to this picture. On its north side is an arcade dating from the late 12th century; the church also contains a restored 13th-century font. An architectural feature and an item of church furnishings from successive centuries can therefore be seen side by side. Holy Cross Sherston is also part of the Athelstan Trail. Anyone interested in Sherston’s church and architectural history will find both a dated architectural detail and a historic item of church furnishings here.

Earthworks and Countryside

When planning a visit to the earthworks, it is important to distinguish between the site itself and the view of it: the bank-and-ditch enclosure is on private land, but can be seen from a public footpath to the south or from the road immediately to the north. It is the only Scheduled Monument in the parish of Sherston.

The Sherston Streams walk offers a different focus from the village’s built heritage. It follows two tributaries of the River Avon, with the possibility of spotting interesting birdlife along the way. It suits a stay that combines culture with a walk and nature watching. Sherston’s walking and village guide aims to help residents and visitors enjoy the beautiful countryside around Sherston.

When choosing what to focus on, the main consideration is the kind of experience you want: the village’s history can be explored through its historic settlement layout and datable architectural features; the walk offers a connection with the landscape and the possibility of birdwatching. If you are interested in both, you can treat them as different parts of your stay.

Discover more destinations: Cricklade, Lyneham, Melksham, Durrington, Sutton Benger, Tollard Royal, Redlynch, Wylye.

For the wider travel overview: Wiltshire.