Downton is a large ancient Wiltshire village with a population of approximately 3,000 situated around 6 miles south of Salisbury. It straddles the River Avon just outside the New Forest National Park and is surrounded by water meadows and chalk downland. The parish includes the hamlets of Charlton All Saints and Standlynch.


People have lived in Downton for over 7,000 years. Evidence of Iron Age, Roman and Saxon settlements has been found. The earthworks of a Norman motte and bailey castle lie within the 18th Century Moot landscape gardens overlooking the river.

Its recent history included a range of industries including tanning, manufacturing bacon and converting Minis to make them faster. Evidence of past activities can be seen in the old buildings and the mills that used to power local industry. Today the village continues to thrive, with its own schools, shops, pubs and businesses. Every year the Cuckoo Fair attracts around 20,000 visitors to over 250 craft and other stalls, plus live music, dance and other entertainments.

The village is also well known for its fishing, its award winning local brewery and as a centre for exploring the River Avon and New Forest.