Chippenham had its origins as a Saxon hunting residence of King Alfred, before developing into an important market town where the old coaching road between London and Bristol crossed the River Avon. It retains much historical interest, including the 16th Century Yelde Hall, now the Tourist Information Centre with the Historic Council Chamber on the first floor, and the fine buildings which line the Market Square and St Mary's Street.

Chippenham is also an excellent base for touring the surrounding area. Nearby attractions include Sheldon Manor, Lacock Village and Lacock Abbey (owned by the National Trust), Castle Combe, and Avebury (a world famous pre-historic site). The Georgian city of Bath, with its Roman baths and beautiful Georgian terraces is only 12 miles away.

The town is on the main railway line between London and the South West of England. Trains take just 75 minutes to reach London, 12 minutes to reach Bath and 25 minutes to reach Bristol.

For more information about the town, check out:
Yourguide to Chippenham website http://www.yourguide.org.uk/chippenham/
or the Wiltshire Tourism website http://www.visitwiltshire.co.uk.

Here is another map of the town from MultiMap.com. The map is centred on the Information Cabin (shown on the Festival Site Map) on Island Park.

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