Explore the History and Culture of Fawley

The Hub of the Village

Fawley is a village and civil parish in West Berkshire, England. The hub of the village is centred 3.5 miles (5.6 km) east of Lambourn and has a sub-community within its bounds, Little or South Fawley. This area of the village is full of quaint shops, restaurants, and pubs, making it the perfect place to explore the culture and history of Fawley.

Thomas Hardy’s Inspiration

Fawley is the inspiration for “Marygreen” in Thomas Hardy’s Jude the Obscure. There are many places to explore and discover that were either written about or visited by Hardy during his time in Fawley. From monuments to beautiful landscapes and views, Hardy’s great works have put Fawley on the map as a must-see destination.

Whatcombe Settlement

Fawley includes the depopulated small hill settlement of Whatcombe. Once a thriving village, Whatcombe is now home to a number of ruins and historical sites, making it a great place to explore and discover a piece of Fawley’s past. Take a walk through Whatcombe and explore the ruins and nature trails found in this area.

Great Fawley and North Fawley

At the heart of Fawley lies Great Fawley or North Fawley, a charming village nestled in the rolling hills of the county. Here, you can explore the quaint streets, take in the views of the Ridgeway and experience rural life at its finest. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful getaway or an adventure, Fawley has something for everyone.

The Ridgeway

The Ridgeway is an 87-mile path which passes through the neighboring parish of Fawley. This stunning path offers unparalleled views of the surrounding countryside, as well as a variety of walking and cycling routes. Explore the diverse flora and fauna as you journey along the winding path and take in the unique beauty of the landscape.

Trigonometrical Point

In the south of the parish sits a slight peak of the downs, where there is a trigonometrical point to survey the surrounding landscape. Take in the breathtaking views of the area from this elevated point, or take a leisurely stroll around the nearby hills. Visit Fawley and experience the natural beauty of this tranquil corner of England.