Essential Hotels > England > Wiltshire > Swindon

Swindon is the largest town in the county of Wiltshire, and is probably one of the best-known towns in the area. Swindon owes much of its success to its convenient position, mid-way between Bath and Reading and within easy reach of Wales, Bristol and London. It lies along the M4 corridor, the main motorway connecting London with the southwest, and is the home of a major rail link.

Swindon is Saxon in origin, from which point it existed as a market town for centuries. It was the Industrial Revolution that really boosted the town’s fortunes. Isambard Kingdom Brunel’s ambitious great western rail project saw the founding of a significant station and changing point here. The new station was contemporary and impressive, and it promoted the growth of a new town. The market settlement was relegated to become what is now known as Swindon Old Town. Modern Swindon is very much a ‘new town’ in terms of outlook and architecture, to the extent that is has unfortunately become best known by many for its road system and roundabouts, particularly the heinous Magic Roundabout. Its economy is also built on modern industry, including electronics, finance and pharmaceuticals.

However, Swindon is also home to the headquarters of the National Trust, and the National Monuments Records centre, and with good reason. Step outside the town centre and you will almost immediately come across Wiltshire’s beautiful countryside. There are glorious downs to explore, and nestled into the countryside are numerous small old-fashioned villages and newer districts formed by Swindon’s commuter population. Wootton Bassett is a pleasant traditional market town just south of the M4, opposite Swindon. It has a historic high street filled with little shops, restaurants and bars. The intriguing and historic Avebury Stone Circles are around 20 minutes’ drive away, while Stonehenge is roughly an hour from central Swindon. Closer to home, Lydiard House and Park is one of Swindon’s favourite heritage sites. It holds an Elizabethan Manor and acres of grounds to enjoy.