After leaving YHA Bath, it’s quite a cycle to YHA Cholderton Stonehenge, across the rolling Wiltshire Downs. Arriving relieved, an hour ahead of check-in at 5 pm, we were allowed in to use the facilities. I took a mug of tea through to the sunny conservatory, while son Will collapsed on a comfy sofa and promptly fell asleep. Bliss! This lovely room gets sun both morning and evening, as we enjoyed breakfast at the communal table the next morning in sunshine too.
That evening, we cooked a meal. I completely failed to find a light switch for the conservatory until one of the guys who knows the hostel showed me the switch in the lounge (completely separate from the conservatory – who’d have guessed!). When the next person was having the same trouble finding the light, I was able to show them. The kitchen has a welcome food-share cupboard and plenty of work surfaces, though it wasn’t as clean as could be; but then this hostel is part of a rare-breeds farm and vineyard, so perhaps it’s understandable if standards are a little lower. The big TV and settees were very welcome that evening.
The next morning, we cycled west, heading for Westbury. Much of our way was along Route 24, part of the Wiltshire Byway. This followed a lovely quiet country lane for miles, broadly following the railway track so it was gently up and down. As you approach Warminster there are signs for the railway station, but we continued on to Westbury, which was on the right line for us to return home.
My stay at YHA Cholderton Stonehenge was amazing. Plenty to see and do around the area and the location is delightful. I will definitely be returning!
Written by Julie Musk
Image credit: © Julie Musk 2019
