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Click on thumbnail to view full size picture of Great ChalfieldHOLT TO BROUGHTON GIFFORD
"The Courts" in Holt is owned by the National Trust. Nowadays it is know for its gardens but the house got its name from the court that sat there to settle disputes amongst weavers in the locality. The Pack Horse Bridge at Wp7 looks of normal proportions until you walk up to it and realise it is far too narrow for even a horse cart. It was designed for pack horses and must have been a major thoroughfare in its day, probably for carrying wool to local markets. Its in very good condition, even the roadway looks original, its a gem, you won't find a better one in Wiltshire. Great Chalfield is also owned by the National Trust. It's a fine medieval manor house with outbuildings, moat, and chapel that combine to give a very clear insight into medieval life. Inside it just oozes history, nothing has changed for hundreds of years. Its the sort of place you expect to be used in a film set, such a pity that the opening times are so restricted, if you want to visit check first. There are other items too. The little church at Whaddon, the iron bridge soon after, you may find others. (GPS length 5.63 miles). How to get there: Take the B3107 Melksham to Bradford on Avon road. When you reach Holt turn off into "The Midlands" road @ ST 8613 6185 where it is signed "carpark". Park in village carpark 25yds on R.
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