Key facts
OS grid ref: SU070310
What3words: ///porridge.activism.ulterior
Postcode: SP2
Post town: Salisbury
Unitary Authority: Wiltshire
Parliamentary Constituency: Salisbury
Burcombe
Burcombe is an unspoiled, country village close to the A30 and A36 and the popular market town of Wilton.
It’s only 4½ miles from Salisbury with all its amenities, culture and heritage, not to mention its train station taking passengers to London in less than 90 minutes.
The village includes the hamlet of Ugford and lies within the stunning Cranborne Chase National Landscape, and the top of Burcombe Down has breathtaking views across the rolling countryside to Salisbury Cathedral spire.
Village amenities include a website, village hall, a popular butcher’s shop with a small suite of rented offices.
History
The name Burcombe is thought to derive from the Saxon name of Brydancumb or Bryda’s Valley. The village was once called South Burcombe, and its twin – North Burcombe – sat on the north side of what is now the A30.
There is evidence of Neolithic or Bronze Age activity in the area, including a round barrow at the top of the steep slope that overlooks Punch Bowl Bottom, a deep valley in the downland.
Much of the housing in the village was built by the Wilton estate, including the 1865 farmhouse Burcombe Manor, which is now used as a wedding venue and B&B.
Walking and cycling
There is an extensive network of footpaths and bridleways for walkers and horseriders to enjoy.
Explore Burcombe and the Punch Bowl on this three-mile walk along field paths and quiet lanes, through stunning chalk downland, with spectacular views across the Nadder Valley.
