Top Skywatching Spots In Wiltshire To Witness The Warminster Thing

August 31, 2024 1:00 AM ‐ UFOs • Weird Wiltshire

The Warminster Thing is a term that became synonymous with unexplained aerial phenomena in the skies over Warminster, Wiltshire during the 1960s and 1970s. This period saw numerous reports of strange sounds, unusual lights, and unidentified flying objects, making Warminster a focal point for UFO enthusiasts. While interest in the Warminster Thing has waned over the decades, the area still draws those keen to experience a bit of the mystery for themselves. The following are three key locations where you can try your luck at spotting something unusual in the night sky.

Cley Hill

Cley Hill is a prominent hill located just west of Warminster, and while its connection to the Warminster Thing is more tenuous compared to other sites, it remains a popular location for skywatchers and amateur astronomers. The hill is managed by the National Trust, and a small car park is conveniently located just off the A362 near Corsley. However, the car park itself isn't ideal for stargazing due to surrounding trees that obscure the view of the night sky.

To make the most of your visit, it's recommended to hike the mile-long path to the top of Cley Hill. Although the walk is fairly steep, the vantage point at the summit offers expansive views of the surrounding landscape and sky, making it a good spot for those hoping to catch a glimpse of something extraordinary. The hill's open aspect provides a better opportunity for skywatching than remaining in the car park below.

Cradle Hill

Cradle Hill is perhaps the most famous of Warminster’s UFO hotspots, closely linked to the Warminster Thing. Situated about a mile north of Warminster, it has been a favoured spot for UFO enthusiasts for decades, despite not being the best location for skywatching in terms of visibility.

To reach Cradle Hill, you should navigate to Elm Hill, a country lane passing near the West Wiltshire Golf Course. As you ascend, the lane will eventually lead you to a four-way junction with a small triangle of grass at its centre. You’ll know you’ve arrived when you spot a large Ministry of Defence (MOD) sign behind a barbed wire fence, signalling the entrance to military land.

Parking at this junction is a popular choice for skywatchers. Although the view of the sky is partially obstructed by trees and suffers from light pollution, the site’s historical significance makes it a worthwhile stop. If you choose to continue your visit, you can walk up the hill towards a small copse where a concrete barn is hidden among the trees. This spot also offers a view of the sky, though it's not significantly better than the parking area.

Starr Hill

Starr Hill, also known as Middle Hill, is another key location associated with the Warminster Thing. In contrast to Cradle Hill, Starr Hill offers a superior skywatching experience, with much darker skies and minimal light pollution. This makes it an ideal spot for those serious about observing the night sky without the interference of artificial light.

Parking is available about 300 metres from the top of the hill, providing an unobstructed view of the sky. For those willing to make the short and relatively easy walk to the summit, the view improves even further. The path is neither steep nor long, and the elevation offers a better vantage point for watching the skies than Cradle Hill or Cley Hill.

While Starr Hill may lack the historical weight of Cradle Hill, it more than makes up for it with its excellent conditions for night-time skywatching. This makes it the preferred choice for those prioritising visibility over historical context.

Conclusion

When deciding where to skywatch in Warminster, the choice often comes down to what you value most: historical significance or the quality of the skywatching experience. Cradle Hill, despite its drawbacks, remains a significant location for those interested in the Warminster Thing and its history. Starr Hill, on the other hand, offers far better conditions for observing the night sky but without the same level of historical association. Cley Hill, while a good spot for general stargazing, is less tied to the Warminster Thing and requires a bit more effort to reach the best vantage point. Each location has its own appeal, and your choice will depend on what you're hoping to get out of your visit.

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