Southern Wiltshire

Southern Wiltshire Community Area sits in the south east corner of Wiltshire where the chalk of the Salisbury Plain dips down to form the Hampshire Basin. The chalk downland scenery extends from Coombe Bissett east to Pepperbox Hill. The northerly part of the New Forest reaches into the community area to the south, with parts of Landford, Redlynch and Whiteparish in the New Forest National Park Area. East Winterslow offers the highest point at 162 metres.

The community area has 19 Sites of Specific Scientific Interest, including the River Avon valley which cuts south dividing the community area east from west. The wide flood plain offers a rich habitat for wildlife.

The area’s heritage is significant, with nationally famous Longford castle and the remains of Clarendon Palace found in the community area.

Major roads radiate from Salisbury, the A30 northeast to Andover, the A36 southeast to Southampton and A338 towards Bournemouth. The Hampshire towns of Fordingbridge, Ringwood and Romsey all add services for the rural population, with Salisbury remaining the main focus.