White Horse Hill
White Horse Hill, crowned by the iconic Bronze Age chalk horse, is a place steeped in mystery and legend. Known for its tales of dragon slaying and ancient myths, the hill offers not only a fascinating historical landscape but also some of the most breathtaking views in Oxfordshire. Whether you're into birdwatching, hiking, or exploring ancient sites, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
Climb to the Top
Take the challenge and hike to the highest point in Oxfordshire, where the trig point marks the hill at 262 metres. Positioned between the White Horse and Uffington Castle, the summit offers sweeping views of the surrounding countryside, with the rolling hills and valleys stretching across six counties. It's an unbeatable spot to enjoy the landscape and appreciate the history of this special place.
A Twitcher’s Delight
White Horse Hill is a paradise for birdwatchers. Look up, and you might catch sight of buzzards, kestrels, and red kites soaring above, hunting for voles and field mice. In the warmer months, keep an eye out for skylarks, meadow pipits, corn buntings, and partridges – all of which breed in the grasslands. The sky is always full of life, making it a perfect spot for birding enthusiasts.
Ancient Archaeology
The White Horse is just one of the many ancient features found on and around the hill. Explore the area and discover more fascinating historical remains:
- The Manger: A dramatic dry valley with steep, rippling sides formed during the Ice Age. These ripples are known as the Giant's Steps.
- Dragon Hill: A small, flat-topped hill to the east of The Manger, said to be the site where St. George slayed the dragon. Legend has it that the dragon's poisoned blood left a white chalk scar, which is still visible today.
- Uffington Castle: An Iron Age hillfort with ramparts and ditches, located at the summit of White Horse Hill.
- Burial Mounds: Scattered across the hill, these mounds date back to the Neolithic period and were reused up until the Saxon era. One of the largest burial mounds contains the remains of 47 individuals and can be seen as you approach the horse from the car park.
Visiting White Horse Hill with Your Family
White Horse Hill is perfect for family visits, offering fun activities for children of all ages. Whether it's the thrill of climbing the hill or the excitement of rolling back down, there's no shortage of enjoyment. Let your imagination run wild as you contemplate the mystery of who created the chalk figure and why. Craft your own legends and explore the folklore of this incredible site.
Walk Britain’s Oldest Road
White Horse Hill is part of the Ridgeway National Trail, one of Britain’s oldest and most historic routes. Stretching for 87 miles, this ancient chalk ridge path was used by prehistoric people and runs from Avebury to the Chilterns. Walking along this trail is an incredible way to connect with history while enjoying the stunning views of the countryside. The climb to the top of White Horse Hill is challenging, but the views from the summit are well worth the effort.