In Box, architectural history, archaeological heritage and nature come together. The Box Tunnel and historic buildings give the village a distinct cultural character; there is also a circular walk with views of Box Valley, as well as geological and nature-related themes. This lets you decide whether your trip should focus more on history, walking through the landscape or both.
Buildings and Local History
The Box Tunnel is 2,964 metres long and was built between 1836 and 1841. It is the longest tunnel on the Great Western Railway. Its length, construction period and place within the railway line make it a notable subject in railway history. If you are interested in railway engineering, you can connect this theme with other chapters in the village’s history.
The Church of St Thomas à Becket is a Grade I listed church. Its core dates from the 14th century, with later additions. Its history therefore includes both its medieval origins and later phases of construction. The windowless Blind House was built as a prison in the 18th century. Visits inside are possible on certain summer days; check before your trip whether this seasonal opening is currently available.
Box Roman Villa is also part of the village’s archaeological heritage. Its site lies beneath the village and is designated as a protected archaeological site. The villa thus adds an underground archaeological point of interest to the history of the village’s buildings.
Circular Walk and Landscape
The Box Heritage Trail is a circular walk with views of Box Valley in the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. It crosses Box Hill Common and leads to a purpose-built viewing platform at the western portal of the Box Tunnel. The route thus combines landscape views and railway history: the tunnel is part of the walk, while Box Valley and Box Hill Common shape the landscape experience.
The trail starts at the Box Rec car park; the nearest bus stop is on High Street. The physical demands are also important when planning: the route may include steep slopes and requires a moderate level of fitness. Bear this in mind when deciding whether the circular walk is right for your outing.
Geology and Nature
The Box Rock Circus adds geology to the themes of architecture and landscape. The installation, created in 2012, includes samples of all three rock types, as well as minerals and fossils. Dinosaur footprints can be used to determine the height of dinosaurs. The Rock Circus brings together different geological themes in one place; the Heritage Trail, by contrast, focuses on landscape and walking.
Lovar Garden is a community-provided space for enjoying nature. Its nature-focused theme differs from the Box Rock Circus, which centres on rocks, minerals, fossils and dinosaur footprints. Together, these themes offer different ways to experience nature and landscape in Box.
Discover more destinations: Temple, Sedgehill, Wootton Bassett, Ogbourne St George, Upper Seagry, Lyneham, Yatton Keynell, Purton.
For the overview of the wider region: Wiltshire.
