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River and Rail Quarter
The River & Rail Quarter
The River & Rail Quarter connects Chippenham’s green spaces with its transport and education hubs. Anchored by Chippenham Station and Wiltshire College, it’s a place of movement, learning and leisure. Monkton Park provides open green space for riverside walks, family days out and community events, while cafés and pubs offer welcoming stops for commuters, students and visitors alike.
River & Rail History
Shaped by the River Avon and the arrival of Brunel’s Great Western Railway, this quarter has always been a place of connection. It links Chippenham’s past as a riverside market town with its growth as a modern commuter and business hub.
Things to Do
The River & Rail Quarter is home to Chippenham Station, Wiltshire and Swindon History Centre, Wiltshire College & University Centre, and Monkton Park. The park’s riverside trails and leisure facilities make it a popular green space, while the college brings thousands of students into the area each day.
Food and Drink
With cafés, pubs, and eateries, all serving commuters, students, shoppers, and park visitors, this Quarter offers everything from quick take-away coffee to relaxed meals overlooking the Avon. It is here that you will find most of the evening economy which is made more vibrant by virtue of being a 'Purple Flag' town thanks to the local council.
The River & Rail Quarter Today
The River & Rail Quarter today is a hub of connection, learning and leisure. With Chippenham Station, Wiltshire College, and Monkton Park at its core, it welcomes commuters, students and families every day. Blending green riverside trails with modern education and transport links, it is a vibrant quarter that bridges Chippenham’s past, present and future.
Shops & Services
The River & Rail Quarter blends education, leisure and services. It’s home to Wiltshire College & University Centre, leisure facilities at Monkton Park, the Swindon and Wiltshire History Centre, and businesses ranging from national employers to local services
Art & Culture
This quarter benefits from student-led activity, community groups and leisure events in Monkton Park, which frequently hosts outdoor performances and festivals.
Green Spaces
The River Avon and Monkton Park are the highlights here – offering open green space, riverside trails, play areas and sports facilities, all just minutes from the station.
Transport, Accommodation & Event Venues
Anchored by Chippenham Station, this quarter is the town’s transport gateway, with direct rail services to London, Bath, Bristol and Cardiff. Event venues include college facilities and open-air spaces in Monkton Park. Hotels such as the Premier Inn provide easy access to both business and leisure travellers.
