Cherhill White Horse

You'll spot this white horse carved into the chalky slope above the A4 between Devizes and Calne - 140 metres of pure Victorian enthusiasm carved into the hillside in 1780. It's bold, visible from miles away, and frankly a bit of a jolt when you're driving past. The horse itself was created by a local landlord called Dr Christopher Alsop, who wanted to commemorate King George III's recovery from illness. Fair enough reason for permanently etching a horse into a Wiltshire hill.

If you're staying nearby - Blackland Lakes and Honey Bee Glamping are both within easy reach - this is a proper walk rather than a quick roadside stop. The steep track up takes about twenty minutes depending on fitness, and you'll earn decent views across the vale once you're up there. The horse looks best from a distance, to be honest. Close up it's just chalk and rutted paths, but the panorama across Wiltshire makes the climb worthwhile, especially on a clear day.

Historically minded types will get a kick out of it - there's something about standing next to a two-century-old hill carving that makes you feel connected to what came before. It's free to access, and there's rough parking near the base. Summer's the obvious choice, though the muddy slopes can be slick after rain. Allow an hour total if you're making it a proper outing rather than a quick snap from the road.