Malmesbury may have tranquil streets, mellow stone buildings and cosy pubs, but don't be deceived into thinking Malmesbury is a place where nothing ever happens - it is a town of 'firsts'. It was the first Borough, the birthplace of the first King of All England and the place where a monk first took flight in 1010 - he broke both legs after launching himself with a pair of wings from the abbey tower. Malmesbury stands on a hill, surrounded by water as a natural defence and has retained buildings from virtually every architectural period.
The Abbey remains as a focal point as it was when founded in the 7th century by St Aldhelm. Until the early 1500s it had a splendid spire which soared more than 400ft into the sky.
Malmesbury is also home to Barbara and Ian Pollard, who first bought the 16th century Abbey House and garden in 1994. They have created an extraordinary garden but are perhaps better known as the Naked Gardeners. Clothes 'optional 'days are sometimes arranged (Abbey House Gardens - 01666 822212).
The Old Bell Hotel considers itself one of the oldest hotels in England, as it has hosted visitors to the Abbey library since 1220. A stop at the Old Bell is great for tea and cakes or lunch. My money is always on Amanda's Cafe in Oxford Street - Sybil's sublime tea for two - a full tea time blow out complete with salmon and cucumber sandwiches, scones cream and jam, and cake.
In 1998 malmesbury hit the headlines when two Tamworth pigs escaped from the abattoir and went on the run for nine days. Leonard Walker Butchers, (01666 822132) make some of the finest sausages, especially when served with Tracklements (01666 827044) Onion Marmalade, made just up the road in Sherston.
Finally the grave of Hannah Twynnoy stands in the Abbey churchyard. This unfortunate serving girl took her place in history when she became the last person in England to have been eaten by a tiger in 1703..
Pages within this site of things to do in Wiltshire
Things to do in Wiltshire - Bradford on Avon, Castle Combe, Devizes, Cotswold Water Park, Kennet & Avon Canal, Lacock Abbey, Malmesbury, Salisbury, Cathedral, Savernake, Stonehenge, Marlborough, Salisbury Plain, Stonehenge & Avebury, Stourhead, Swindon, Warminster, White Horses, Longleat
