Estate agents in The Chalke Valley

Nestled between Salisbury and Shaftesbury, the Chalke Valley is a stunning stretch of countryside, renowned as one of the best places to live in southwest Wiltshire. This tranquil valley, named after the villages of Broad Chalke and Bowerchalke, is home to a series of charming villages, large farms, and agricultural estates. The River Ebble meanders through the valley, a peaceful chalk stream adding to the area’s natural beauty. With its sparsely populated landscape, the Chalke Valley retains an unspoilt charm, making it an increasingly desirable location for those seeking an escape from urban life.

Community and Events

A highlight of the area is the Chalke Valley History Festival, a week-long celebration attracting visitors from across the country. Known for its impressive roster of speakers and engaging family activities, the festival is a must for history enthusiasts. For outdoor lovers, the valley offers an abundance of scenic walking, cycling, and riding routes, with trails ranging from short strolls to more challenging walks over chalk ridges.

Local Pubs

The Chalke Valley boasts a number of traditional pubs, each with its own unique character:

The Horseshoe Inn (Ebbesborne Wake) – A welcoming spot with delicious hearty home-cooked meals and a lovely garden.

The Talbot (Berwick St John) – A charming family run pub with homecooked food and holiday accommodation.

The Queens Head (Broad Chalke) – Specialising in locally brewed ales and seasonal local food.

White Hart (Bishopstone) – A friendly country pub offering traditional pub food and a cosy atmosphere.

The Radnor Arms (Nunton) – Known for its relaxed vibe and delicious local fare.

Education

Families are well catered for with excellent state and private schools in the area:

Primary Schools: Broad Chalke C of E Primary and Coombe Bissett Primary.

Secondary Schools: Bishop Wordsworth Boys' Grammar and South Wilts Girls' Grammar.

Private Schools: Sandroyd, Port Regis, Chafyn Grove, Salisbury Cathedral School, and Godolphin.

Transport Links

For commuters, Salisbury’s rail station offers regular services to London Waterloo, with journey times starting from 1 hour 30 minutes.

Local Villages and Landmarks

Alvediston: A small village known for its historical buildings like Alvediston Manor and Norrington Manor. 

Berwick St John: Situated at the head of the valley, this village offers great views and is home to the Berwick St John Country Fayre.

Bishopstone: With six ancient townships, Bishopstone is rich in history and includes landmarks like Grim’s Ditch and the Roman Road.

Bowerchalke: Close to the Dorset border, this village is famous for its chalk downs and rich history, with links to author William Golding and violinist Iona Brown.

Broad Chalke: The most lively village, with an Outstanding Ofsted rated primary school and the Gurston Down Speed Hill Climb. Cecil Beaton and Sir Terry Pratchett were notable residents.

Fifield Bavant: A hamlet with the smallest church in Wiltshire, St Martin of Tours, dating back to the 13th century.

Ebbesbourne Wake: Home to the popular Horseshoe Inn and a great spot for walking.

Stratford Tony: A village with a charming medieval church, reachable only via a footpath over a stream, making it a hidden gem.

The Chalke Valley’s unspoiled beauty and closeknit community, combined with its historical charm and access to the outdoors, make it a soughtafter place to live. Whether exploring the villages or enjoying the many walking routes, this area offers a perfect blend of rural tranquillity and community spirit.