First-time tourists flocking to these shores and seeking the authentic English experience would do well to swerve the big smoke in favour of Wiltshire's olde worlde charms. Crumbling castles, millennia-old monoliths, ancient chalky hillside horses – Salisbury is steeped in legend and lore. From Stonehenge and Avebury to Salisbury Cathedral's imposing cloisters, this corner of the South-West evokes the very essence of Albion. And what could be more quintessentially English than the classic rural village pub? How about just such a place-cum-campsite. Let us show you to your lodgings.
Built in the mid 1800s, The Bruce Arms derives its singular name from a connection to Scotland's warrior king Robert the Bruce (apparently his brother married into the onetime estate owner Lord Ailesbury's family – today's pub sign bears the family crest). Now helmed by newly-installed landlord Matthew Jump, Caledonian courtiers might not visit as frequently, but the royal welcome still awaits for guests of the Bruce. This snug boozer oozes a timeless charm – red and black quarry-tiled floor; timber beams; exposed red brick hearth with cast-iron wood-burning stove.
Out back lies the spacious (if not sprawling) one acre camping field. With ample room for tents, caravans and motorhomes, this flat field lies just off the B3087 yet noise from passing traffic is minimal and the high hedges preserves the privacy. Facilities are basic but perfectly adequate, with smart new toilet, clean showers plus a washing machine-dryer combo.
Despite it's sleepy locale, The Bruce Arms boasts a bustling calendar. Turn up on any given weekend and you might be met by a convoy of classic cars, or a band unloading their gear through the pub's games room for one of their regular live music nights. And when the countryside calls you to venture from the site, take the canal towpath to Crofton Pumphouse or hop on the bikes and take the path leading to the glorious, green sweep of Pewsey Vale.
Salisbury is bursting with iconic historic sights of old England, such as Salisbury Cathedral (01722 555120), Wardour Castle (01747 870487), Silbury Hill, Avebury (01672 539250), and of course Stonehenge (0870 333 1181). While the world's foremost monolith gets the lion's share of the tourists, follow the two-mile canalside walk to the lesser-known Old Sarum – both an Iron Age hillfort and the ruins of Norman motte and bailey castle. Speaking of lion's, Longleat (01985 844400) safari park is less than an hour away. Closer to sight, Wilton Windmill (01672 870266) and the Kennet & Avon Canal (01380 721279) both offer great days out, as does Crofton Beam Engines (01672 870300) showcasing some of the oldest working steam engines in the world.
The Bruce Arms is one of only two CAMRA Heritage Pubs in Wiltshire. With open fires, games room, and a function room for large groups, the Bruce serves local beers and ales from the Stonehenge and Wadworths breweries. Bar snacks are available and meals most weekday lunchtimes, plus Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings.
