VISIT HIGHWORTH
Wiltshire's hidden gem
welcoming visitors
ancient market town
13th C. St Michael's Church
Wiltshire's highest town
celebrating the changing seasons

Welcome to Highworth

Wiltshire's Hidden Gem

Highworth is an ancient hill top market town situated on the edge of the Cotswolds only four miles from the River Thames and close to Swindon and its many facilities. Poet laureate Sir John Betjeman described Highworth as “extraordinary because it has more beautiful buildings than ugly ones”. He also wrote:

“ I have never seen Highworth given due praise in guide books for what is one of the most charming and unassuming country towns in the West of England.”   ~ John Betjeman

Highworth is known for its historical and rural character, which has been relatively well-preserved over time, particularly in its physical landscape and architectural details. Archaeological evidence suggests almost continuous occupation for 4,000 years. Today the town centre is a remarkable conservation area containing 84 listed buildings plus a Grade l listed 13th century Church, St. Michael and All Angels.

There are numerous stories and events and people that contribute to Highworth’s unique and special character. They include being a cavalier stronghold during the civil war, having a postmistress with a pivotal role in the British Resistance movement during World War II, running the official ABBA fan club from a house in Sheep Street, the mystery of the secret tunnels under the market place and not forgetting the many sightings of the ghostly monk! Be sure to visit the Highworth Museum, whimsically housed in an old bank strongroom, to discover more.

Experience the flavour of Highworth ...


How Can We Help You?

Tourist Information

Let our friendly staff guide you through the hidden gems of this picturesque town at our Visitor Information Centre.


Arts and Crafts

Embrace local craftsmanship and take home a piece of Highworth with you. Support our local Artists and Artisans.


Town Tours

Visit Highworth offers a number of different self-paced or guided walking tours of our lovely town.



Local Events

Highworth offers an amazing selection of Events throughout the year. Some are free, tickets for many others are available at Visit Highworth.


Places to Stay

Highworth makes a great place to stay as you explore our town and the countryside beyond. We can offer a great selection of B&B’s, guesthouses and hotels with something to suit all budgets.


Eat and Drink

Whether it’s full English fry up, a Latte with a slice of homemade cake, afternoon tea, real Ale, a Takeaway or special evening meal you will find something to suit all tastes in Highworth.


FAQs

you asked .... we answer

What are the opening hours of VHL?

The Visit Highworth Shop and Museum are currently .
We are open at the following times:
Tuesday to Friday: 10am to 3pm
Saturday: 9am to 2pm
Monday and Sunday: closed


How do I book a Guided Town Tour?

Visit Highworth is delighted to offer specially devised guided walking tours for individuals and groups covering the fascinating and rich history of Highworth.

Town Tours are scheduled to take place weekly from 11am on Tuesdays *, if this is not convenient we are happy to discuss your requirements and arrange an alternative day or time.

  • Cost: £5 per person, under 16yrs free when accompanied by an adult.
    Booking is essential as group numbers are limited.
  • Duration: Tour length is approximately an hour and the route is flat.
  • Call Visit Highworth during our opening hours to book or find out more.
    Tel: 01793 764440

* Note: Scheduled Town Tours only proceed if there are prior bookings.


What tickets are currently on sale at VHL?

There are no ticketed events at the moment. Check back again soon.


Can Visit Highworth publicise our local Event?

Mail to Visit Highworth with details and we will publicise your event, if appropriate, when the time comes. Please be sure to include the following information:

  • The name of the event.
  • The venue, the date(s) and time(s).
  • Whether the event is Free.
  • If a ticket is required what is the price?
  • Is the event family friendly, or is there an age limit?
  • The name and contact details of the organiser(s).
  • Also attach a poster / flyer and any other publicity images we can use.

Where can I park in Highworth?

Where can I charge an EV in Highworth?

Who runs Visit Highworth Limited?

Visit Highworth is run and staffed by an enthusiastic team of volunteers. A committee, also volunteers, oversees the running of the centre.


How Can I Support Visit Highworth Limited?

Do you love Highworth, with its award winning High Street shops and unique atmosphere? Do you want to help preserve all this for the future?

A simple and beneficial way to show your support for our amazing Town is to become a Visit Highworth Supporter.

Just pop into the Highworth Visitor Centre and pick up a "Become a Visit Highworth Supporter" leaflet, pledge a minium of £5 per month and join us today!


How to get the Highworth Town Trail App.

The Highworth Town Trail App was created by Highworth Town Council in conjunction with Visit Highworth.

Please do download the App and use it to enhance and inform your exploration of our wonderful town!





Our Visitors Say

“ The team at VHL provided me with invaluable insights and recommendations during my visit to Highworth. Their passion for the town is infectious! ”

~ JD, Surrey ~

" The Town Tour was fascinating and the guide was friendly, informative and amusing. There is a lot to learn about Highworth through the ages! "

~ Mrs A, Cornwall ~

" The Museum in the the old bank vault was so cool. "

~ Katie, Birmingham ~

" We were amazed at the variety of art and locally crafted products for sale in the VHL shop. Highworth has such talented people. "

~ The Barnets, Michigan. USA ~

" Visited a few times. Lovely local crafts. Friendly staff. We visit a couple of times a year and always enjoy a visit to the information centre. Highly recommend! "

~ Mr. & Mrs M, Lancashire ~

" First visit to Highworth - what a charming place. We will be back! "

~ G & J, Chisledon ~

" My friends and I really enjoyed our Town Trail with guide Neil and despite our accumulation of about 200 years living in Highworth we still learned so much! Thank you. "

~ anon. ~


This site was last updated 9 May 2025
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