Free Entry
Wayland's Smithy is an atmospheric historic site about a mile's walk along the Ridgeway from the Uffington White Horse. A Neolithic chambered long barrow, it was once believed to have been the home of Wayland, the Saxon god of metal working.
Human remains found on the site indicate that 14 people were interred in an earlier burial structure between 3590 and 3550 BC. Between 3460 and 3400 BC a second far larger barrow was constructed on top. It is the ruins of this that can be explored by visitors to the site today.
Read more about the history of Wayland's Smithy.
Before You Go
Access: Wayland's Smithy is on an exposed hillside site.
Parking: There is a charged car park at White Horse Hill, free to English Heritage members.
How to Find It: Wayland's Smithy is just over a mile away from the car park.
Please be aware: English Heritage does not permit drone flying from or over sites in our care, except by contractors or partners undertaking flights for a specific purpose, who satisfy stringent CAA criteria, have the correct insurances and permissions, and are operating under controlled conditions.
Dogs: Dogs on leads are welcome.
Plan a Great Day Out
Take a walk along The Ridgeway to the three prehistoric sites of White Horse Hill, Uffington Castle and Dragon Hill.
Slightly further afield, enjoy a picnic at the side of the River Windrush among the tranquil ruins of Minster Lovell Hall. And at North Leigh Roman Villa you can explore the remains of a large Roman courtyard villa with a nearly complete mosaic floor.
