Architecture and Alleyways Tour

A detailed 2-hour walk led by expert archaeologists from the Wiltshire Archaeological Society, focusing on how medieval builders shaped the town's layout and what surviving buildings reveal about power, wealth, and daily life. You'll examine construction techniques - timber framing, stone cutting, mortar composition - while studying specific merchants' houses that still stand. Interior access to selected buildings sets this apart; you're not just looking at facades but understanding the space inside. Best for Architecture students and serious history buffs. This is a moderate activity lasting 2 hours. Group size: 6-15. You meet at Town Bridge car park. Key highlights: Expert archaeological perspective on construction techniques, Interior access to two fully restored medieval houses, Close examination of timber joinery and dendrochronology.

Price: £12

Duration: 2 hours

Difficulty: moderate

Group size: 6-15

Best for: Architecture students and serious history buffs

Best time: Second Saturday of each month, April-October. Spring (April-May) offers best light for photography and smallest crowds. Avoid July-August school holidays when group size may reach maximum.

Meeting point: Town Bridge car park

Languages: English

Here is how the experience unfolds:

9:00am start Gather at Town Bridge car park; introduction to medieval town planning - Guide explains how the bridge controlled trade and shaped street layout; overview of architectural themes for the day.

First 30 minutes Street-by-street examination of timber-framed buildings - Close-up look at joist patterns, infill panels, and joinery; guide discusses dendrochronology (tree-ring dating) of visible timbers.

30-60 minutes Interior access to two merchant houses - Step inside restored medieval properties; observe ceiling heights, hearth positions, room divisions, and evidence of later modifications.

60-90 minutes Stone buildings and masonry techniques - Examine ashlar quoins, lime mortar composition, and how stone sourcing shaped construction choices across different buildings.

90-120 minutes Alleyways and service routes; return to car park - Walk narrow medieval passages connecting main streets; discuss how alleyways served trade, drainage, and fire prevention needs.

The whole experience takes 2 hours. Difficulty: moderate. You meet at Town Bridge car park.

• Expert archaeological perspective on construction techniques
• Interior access to two fully restored medieval houses
• Close examination of timber joinery and dendrochronology
• Understanding of town planning and medieval urban layout
• Discussion of building modifications and continuous use over 600+ years

What is included: Guided tour by trained archaeologist, Interior access to two selected buildings, Detailed architectural handout, Close-up inspection of timber joinery and stonework.

Not included: Refreshments or meals, Parking fees (small charge at car park), Specialist photographic access, Museum visits or other attractions. You will need to arrange these yourself.

What to bring: Camera with macro capability for detail shots, Notebook for taking detailed observations, Comfortable walking shoes; stairs inside buildings can be steep, Glasses if you examine fine architectural details. Having these with you makes the experience smoother.

Best time to go: Second Saturday of each month, April-October. Spring (April-May) offers best light for photography and smallest crowds. Avoid July-August school holidays when group size may reach maximum..

Tip: Monthly tours on second Saturday

Tip: Includes interior access to selected buildings

Accessibility: Moderate difficulty. Includes interior access requiring climbing narrow medieval stairs (typically 2-3 flights). Not suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility limitations. Steep uneven pavements in places..

Operator: Wiltshire Archaeological Society | Book directly (opens in new tab) | Phone: +44 1225 752351

After this activity, these are within easy reach:

• Barton Farm Country Park (15 min walk)
• Saltaire Village (25 min walk)

This activity is run by Wiltshire Archaeological Society.

Book directly at their website (opens in new tab).

Cancellation policy: Non-refundable once booked; contact Wiltshire Archaeological Society at least 7 days before if you need to reschedule..

Accessibility: Moderate difficulty. Includes interior access requiring climbing narrow medieval stairs (typically 2-3 flights). Not suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility limitations. Steep uneven pavements in places..

Best time to go: Second Saturday of each month, April-October. Spring (April-May) offers best light for photography and smallest crowds. Avoid July-August school holidays when group size may reach maximum..

Do I need prior knowledge of architecture to enjoy this tour?

No. The guide explains terms and techniques as you go. That said, prior interest in medieval construction helps you get more from the interior access. Architecture students find it especially valuable because the guide discusses actual building practices, not just history.

Can I take photographs inside the buildings?

Yes, general photography is permitted for personal use. The dim interior lighting and narrow rooms can make shots challenging; bring a camera with good low-light performance. Flash is discouraged to protect historic interiors.

Why is this tour more expensive than other walking tours?

The £12 price includes expert-led commentary from trained archaeologists plus interior access to private properties - something most walking tours don't offer. You're paying for specialized knowledge and behind-the-scenes access, not just a surface-level walk.