Exploring the local area: the best things to do in Melksham
Tucked away in the Wiltshire countryside, Melksham offers a delightful mix of character, charm, and discovery. Whether you're exploring historic streets, walking peaceful riverside trails, or stumbling upon a hidden café, there are plenty of things to do in Melksham to fill your wondrous days.
Shop locally
There’s nothing quite like discovering your new favourite shop tucked away in the streets of a quaint market town, and in Melksham, the question isn’t if you’ll find your new favourite retail therapy stop but how many? What a treat.
Exploring local businesses is a great way to be a supportive visitor, and when there are so many gems to discover, it really is a win win. From bakehouses and cafés to flower shops and a micro pub, take a leisurely stroll through the town and see what you’ll discover.
Lace up your walking shoes
Melksham boasts a range of walks and hikes for all abilities. Whether you’re seeking a residential ramble with a coffee shop perfectly waiting at the end or a rural wander taking in the riverside views and wildlife, there are plenty of walks in and around Melksham to tempt even the most reluctant of adventurers (although if you’re reading this, we’re sure you’re more than enthusiastic).
When it comes to things to do in Melksham, soaking in the tranquillity of the canal and riverside with a walk along the North Wiltshire River Route is up there. As a largely off road path that runs along the National Cycle Route from Melksham to Avebury, it’s the perfect place to take your morning stroll or even an afternoon bike ride. And because we know one relaxing walk just isn’t enough, be sure to explore the scenic, flat walk along the Kennet and Avon Canal.
The Conigre Mead Nature Reserve is another fascinating space hidden just a few minutes walk from the town centre. Managed by a team of enthusiastic volunteers, it is home to dragonflies, butterflies and the occasional kingfisher – keep your eyes peeled.
Step back in time
The joys of exploring somewhere new go beyond the current, in fact, with historic towns such as Melksham, it’s its rich history that makes it the town it is today. There simply wouldn’t be all these wonderful things to do in Melksham without what came before.
It’s hard to believe now amongst the shops, houses and parks but Melksham was once part of a vast royal forest – a favourite hunting ground of Tudor kings no less.
Since its days sporting royal recreation, Melksham grew its prosperity on agriculture and the woollen cloth industry, as well as being the site of the former Cooper/Avon Tires factory. Although you’ll no longer find a Tudor king hunting his next kill (probably for the best), the town’s blue plaque offers an interesting tour of Melksham’s rich past.
Soak in the surroundings
After a day of ticking off your list of things to do in Melksham, take a break in one of Melksham’s beautiful parks. From picnic-perfect green spaces to fun-filled playgrounds, there’s something for everyone.
Around on a Saturday? Head to King George V park for Melksham Parkrun, a fun, weekly 5k run around Melksham park that offers the best community feeling. And don’t worry if you don’t fancy a 9am run, Parkrun welcomes all abilities including parkwalkers. There’s no need to sign up, simple register online to get your barcode and turn up on the day! For a post run/walk treat, enjoy a hot or cold drink and slice of cake from the Adventure Centre near the finish line.
Getting here
Discovering all the things to do in Melksham is easy when staying at Beechfield House.
On foot – leaving Beechfield House and turning left, the walk into Melksham will take you around 35 minutes. Please take care, some pavement sections along the road can be narrow.
By car – a short 8 minute drive will take you from Beechfield House to Kings Street carpark. Depending on your plans in Melksham, there are other carparks that may be closer to your chosen activity.
By bus – hope onboard the X34 to Frome, ride 6 stops and in 6 minutes you’ll be in Melksham.
Stay at Beechfield House
Whether you're strolling along the canal, discovering Melksham’s independent gems, or soaking up the town’s fascinating history, there's plenty of things to do in Melksham to elevate your stay in Wiltshire. And when the day winds down, Beechfield House offers the perfect retreat of elegance and calm, and just a short journey from the town itself.
If you’re coming for the walks and parks, you’ll love Beechfied’s ‘dogs stay free’ offer, where your pooch can join you without any extra cost.
Or perhaps a spring getaway sounds tempting, with 2 nights away including a cream tea, breakfast and £40 per person towards your dinner on your first evening. The perfect stay to explore all the things to do in Melksham and beyond.