Events · Trowbridge
Exploring Holt: The historic Wiltshire village with a hidden garden
By Swindon Now Editorial Team · Published
Tucked away between Bradford-on-Avon and Melksham, the village of Holt offers a blend of National Trust heritage, historic industrial roots and traditional country walks.
Often overlooked by those passing through on busier routes, the village of Holt, situated between Bradford-on-Avon and Melksham, holds a surprising amount of local history and points of interest for those willing to explore its quieter streets.
Perhaps the most significant landmark is The Courts Garden, a National Trust property featuring seven acres of grounds surrounding an early 18th-century house. The gardens are structured into distinct areas, including lawns, borders, an arboretum, topiary, water features, and a productive kitchen garden. The site currently provides a range of facilities for visitors, including a plant sales area and a second-hand bookshop.
For those interested in local heritage, the village has a unique backstory. In 1688, mineral water was discovered in the area, leading to the development of a local spa where visitors would travel specifically to take the waters. Centuries later, the village's economy was transformed by the leather industry, most notably the J and T Beaven business. The company became a major employer and achieved historical significance by producing gloves for airmen during the Second World War, a legacy that remains part of the village's identity today.
Beyond the gardens and historical sites, Holt serves as a base for outdoor activity. A popular circular walking route of approximately 4.3 miles connects the village to the nearby Great Chalfield Manor, offering an accessible way to explore the surrounding countryside.
The village retains two traditional pubs, The Old Ham Tree and The Tollgate Inn. While these are the remaining local watering holes, historic records from the mid-18th century indicate a much more concentrated social scene, with seven alehouses once serving a village that comprised only 50 houses. Additional refreshment stops can be found at the Glove Factory Studios on Brook Lane, which houses Wild Herb at The Field Kitchen.
Visitors planning a trip to The Courts Garden during the current half-term period may find seasonal activities, such as a folklore-inspired garden trail, which are typically included in standard admission without the need for advance booking.
Source: Wiltshire Times · View original