Things to do
around Calne

Calne is the kind of place that rewards you for slowing down. It isn't a town that trades on crowds or coach parties, and that's rather the point: within about two miles of the centre you'll find 29 places to eat and drink, 9 shops, 6 places to visit, 3 useful services, 2 places to stay and 1 activity, which is plenty for a day out and enough to keep a longer weekend ticking along. The mix leans towards independent, everyday places rather than anything showy, so you can wander, browse, eat well and still be back on the road by mid-afternoon if that's your plan.

A good few hours here might start with a look around the Atwell-Wilson Motor Museum, where the collection of vehicles makes an easy hour or two whatever the weather. Afterwards, pick up something for the journey home from Blackberry Fruit & Veg, then settle in for a proper meal — Antica Roma Ristorante for Italian cooking, Lucky Boat or Wongs House if you'd rather Chinese, or The Farmhouse for something more familiar. None of it needs booking weeks ahead, which is part of the appeal.