Combe Gibbet facts for kids
Combe Gibbet is a tall wooden structure, like a gallows, located on top of a hill called Gallows Down. It's near the village of Combe in Berkshire, England. This special landmark was built a long time ago and has an interesting history.
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Where is Combe Gibbet?
The gibbet stands on a hill called Gallows Down, close to the border between Berkshire and Hampshire. It's named after the nearby village of Combe, but it's also not far from Inkpen. The closest large town is Newbury.
The gibbet is built on top of an ancient burial mound called the Inkpen long barrow. This long mound is about 60 meters (200 feet) long and 22 meters (72 feet) wide. Walbury Hill, which is the highest point in South East England, is just a short distance to the east.
A Look Back: Combe Gibbet's History
The original Combe Gibbet was put up in 1676. It was built to display the bodies of two people, George Broomham and Dorothy Newman. This was done as a strong warning to others, to try and stop them from committing serious crimes.
Broomham and Newman were punished for a very serious crime. Someone named "Mad Thomas" saw what happened and told the authorities.
The gibbet you see today is a replica. The first one was destroyed many years ago, and new versions have been put in its place several times since then.
Fun Things to Do at Combe Gibbet
Today, Combe Gibbet is a popular spot for visitors. It offers amazing views of the countryside all around. It's also a favorite place for people who enjoy hang gliding and paragliding.
Combe Gibbet is also the starting point for an exciting off-road race. This race is about 16 kilometers (10 miles) long and goes all the way to Overton. The Overton Harriers and Athletic Club organize this event every year, usually in late March or early April. It's one of the few true off-road races in the UK where competitors are taken by bus to the starting line.
The "Combe Gibbet" Race takes runners over some of the highest hills in the area. These include Walbury Hill, which is the highest in South East England, and Pilot Hill, the highest in Hampshire. The race also passes by Ladle Hill and the edge of Watership Down before finishing in Overton, where the River Test begins.
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The Gibbet
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Looking up at Combe Gibbet from the East
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View from Combe Gibbet, looking north over the Kennet Valley
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View from Combe Gibbet, looking east towards Walbury Hill
Images for kids
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The Gibbet, seen at sunset
