Wiltshire village of Holt offers gardens and countryside walks

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 25 Oct, 06:02 · Archive

The village of Holt in Wiltshire is home to The Courts Garden, a seven-acre National Trust property with garden rooms, walks and facilities.

Holt, tucked between Bradford-on-Avon and Melksham, is known for The Courts Garden, a seven-acre National Trust property surrounding an early 18th-century house. The grounds are divided into smaller garden rooms featuring lawns, borders, topiary, an arboretum and water features, alongside a kitchen garden, second-hand bookshop and plant sales.

The village has attracted visitors for centuries. Mineral water was discovered there in 1688, leading to the development of a spa where people travelled to 'take the waters'. Today's attractions include two pubs and countryside walks.

This half-term, families can enjoy 'Step into a Story', a programme celebrating the 2026 National Year of Reading. This weekend's activities include a folklore-inspired garden trail and a book nook, both included in normal admission with no advance booking required. A circular walking route of around 4.3 miles takes in Great Chalfield Manor as well as The Courts Garden, offering a longer way to explore the area.

How it is being reported

• The quiet Wiltshire village with a hidden National Trust gardenIt may be easy to drive through without a second thought, but this Wiltshire village hides plenty to do.Gazette & Herald · 25 Oct, 05:00
• The quiet Wiltshire village with a hidden National Trust gardenIt may be easy to drive through without a second thought, but this Wiltshire village hides plenty to do.Wiltshire Times · 25 Oct, 05:00

In this story: Holt · Wiltshire · Bradford-on-Avon · Melksham · The Courts Garden · National Trust · Great Chalfield Manor

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