The Cranborne Chase and West Wiltshire Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty covers 380 square miles of Dorset, Hampshire, Somerset and Wiltshire. Through this website you can Explore the fascinating archaeology and history of the landscape of this special and unique area. Discover the character of its historic landscape. Learn how we are helping to conserve this unique heritage using Historic Landscape Characterisation and Historic Environment Action Plans. |
Exploring
the Historic Landscape
Timeline
view the AONB timeline from Palaeolithic to the present day
A rich history
explore the significant features of the AONB, including spectacular Prehistoric archaeology and Medieval landscapes
History of Exploration
find out about the historical figures including Pitt Rivers who helped discover the story of the AONBs past
Characterising
the Historic Landscape
Historic Character
explore the historic character of the present day landscape of the AONB
Time depth
dig into the traces of past human activity visible in the landscape that we see today
Routeways
learn about the historic character of the paths, green lanes, tracks and roads of the AONB
Conserving
the Historic Landscape
Action
discover the Historic Environment Action Plans and how they are helping to conserve and enhance the AONB
Evidence
explore the key evidence bases which contibute to our understanding of the history of the AONB
Method
explore in more depth how the historic landscape of the AONB has been mapped, characterised and described
[Get Involved] | [More...]