The Uffington White Horse is an ancient monument located in Oxfordshire, England. It is a hill figure, a type of prehistoric art made by cutting into the turf of a hill and revealing the underlying chalk. It is believed to be the oldest of these figures, dating back to the Bronze Age. This historic landmark has been a popular tourist attraction for centuries, and it offers a unique glimpse into British culture and its prehistoric past.
History of the Uffington White Horse
The Uffington White Horse is believed to have been created in the late Bronze Age, sometime between 1,000 and 3,000 BC. It is not known for certain who created the figure, but it is thought to have been the people of the Uffington tribe. The figure is cut into the turf of the hill, and the underlying chalk is exposed to create a stark white figure against the green of the hill.
The Uffington White Horse is one of the most famous hill figures in England, and it has been mentioned in literature and song for centuries. It was mentioned in the Anglo-Saxon Chronicle in the 11th century. In the 18th century, the White Horse was restored and maintained by the local people. In the 19th century, the figure was taken over by the National Trust, who continue to look after the monument to this day.
Attractions at the Uffington White Horse
The Uffington White Horse is a popular tourist attraction in Oxfordshire. Visitors can admire the figure from a distance, or take a closer look by walking up the hill. The figure is 110 metres long and 30 metres high, and can be seen from miles away.
The area around the Uffington White Horse is also a great place to explore. There are a number of scenic views, and visitors can also explore the nearby Uffington Castle, an Iron Age hill fort. There are also a number of other prehistoric sites in the area, including the nearby Uffington Down, which is home to a number of Bronze Age barrows.
Tours and Admission
The Uffington White Horse is open to the public all year round, and there is no admission fee. Visitors can explore the area on their own, or take a guided tour with a local expert. There are a number of guided tours available, including walking tours, cycle tours, and horseback tours.
Tips for Tourists Visiting the Uffington White Horse
Visiting the Uffington White Horse is a great way to experience British culture and its prehistoric past. Here are some tips for tourists visiting the site:
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the area is hilly and can be muddy in wet weather.
- Bring a picnic and enjoy the scenic views from the top of the hill.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning views.
- Be sure to check the opening times of the site before visiting.
- Be aware of the local wildlife, including sheep, cattle, and horses.
Practical Information for Visiting the Uffington White Horse
The Uffington White Horse is located in Oxfordshire, England. It is open from 9am to 5pm every day, and there is no admission fee. The nearest train station is Uffington, which is a 10-minute walk from the site. There is also a car park nearby, and a number of local bus services that run to the site.
Conclusion
The Uffington White Horse is a unique and fascinating historic landmark in Oxfordshire, England. It is a great place to explore British culture and its prehistoric past, and it offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Visitors can explore the area on their own, or take a guided tour with a local expert. With its ancient monument, hill figure, and scenic views, the Uffington White Horse is a must-see for anyone visiting Oxfordshire.
