Shrewton Parsonage Down Walk
This walk explores the Parsonage Down National Nature Reserve near Shrewton and Winterbourne Stoke in Wiltshire. You can reach the site by following trails from Shrewton through the countryside.
Parsonage Down National Nature Reserve is a remarkable chalk grassland site located near Winterbourne Stoke in Wiltshire. Set in the rolling landscape of the Salisbury Plain, the reserve is one of the finest remaining examples of species-rich chalk downland in England. From the reserve, visitors are treated to wide-ranging views of the surrounding countryside, characterised by sweeping grasslands and the gentle undulations of the chalk downs. It is a quiet, unspoiled location that offers a glimpse into an ancient landscape shaped by centuries of grazing and traditional land management. The area also includes the ancient Yarnbury Castle.
The site is managed to preserve its biodiversity and has been designated a National Nature Reserve due to its exceptional ecological importance. The area is steeped in history, with evidence of Neolithic and Bronze Age activity nearby. Grazing livestock, particularly sheep, are used to maintain the grassland and prevent encroachment by scrub, which helps preserve its unique habitat.
The flora of Parsonage Down is particularly diverse, with an array of wildflowers that thrive on the nutrient-poor chalk soils. During spring and summer, the reserve bursts into colour with species such as cowslips, wild thyme, and marjoram. Later in the season, visitors may encounter harebells and the striking purple of field scabious. This rich floral diversity supports an equally impressive variety of invertebrates, including numerous butterfly species. These include the chalk hill blue, small blue, and marbled white, which are characteristic of chalk grassland environments. The site is also home to bumblebees and other pollinators, making it a haven for insect life.
Birdlife is another highlight, with skylarks often heard singing above the reserve, a sound evocative of the English countryside. Other species commonly seen include meadow pipits and yellowhammers. Mammals such as hares and foxes are also occasional visitors to the area.
Parsonage Down provides a peaceful and unspoiled escape into a rare habitat that has been carefully preserved. It is a prime location for nature enthusiasts, walkers, and anyone seeking to experience the natural beauty of chalk downland at its best. The reserve also serves as a reminder of the importance of sustainable land management in maintaining biodiversity.
Parsonage Down Ordnance Survey Map 
- view and print off detailed OS map
Parsonage Down Open Street Map 
- view and print off detailed map
Parsonage Down OS Map 
- Mobile GPS OS Map with Location tracking
Parsonage Down Open Street Map 
- Mobile GPS Map with Location tracking
Cycle Routes and Walking Routes Nearby
Photos
Parsonage Down
