Westmead Playing Field – Chippenham
Westmead Playing Field is located at the end of Westmead Lane, just a short walk from Chippenham town centre.
Set alongside the River Avon, it offers open space, play opportunities, and access to nature close to the heart of town. The land is owned and managed by us at Chippenham Borough Lands Charity.
What You’ll Find Here
The Arc
An indoor and outdoor climbing centre with a dog-friendly café, perfect for relaxing with a drink or bite to eat before or after your visit. Owned by CBLC but leased to and run by The Climbing Academy.
The Arc Skatepark
Outdoor skate bowl suitable for all skill levels.
The Arc Play Park
A natural, woodland-themed play area with treehouses, log towers, slides and sand play, designed to blend into the landscape and inspire imaginative outdoor play.
The Local Landscape
Westmead has long served the community as a recreational space. For many years, it was home to football pitches and changing rooms, used by local clubs and schools. In recent years, the site has been transformed into a more accessible and inclusive area for a wider range of activities, while still preserving its role as open green space.
A Bit of History
Westmead Playing Field lies within the natural flood plain of the River Avon. The field acts as a natural buffer zone, designed to absorb and store excess water during heavy rainfall, protecting nearby residential areas by slowing peak flooding. The skatepark bowl doubles as a flood mitigation measure by retaining excess runoff during periods of heavy or prolonged rain – which is why the skatepark is often closed after long or heavy periods or rain, particularly over winter.
Community Tree Planting
In November 2018, 1,000 trees were planted by the Royal Logistics Corps from Buckley Barracks, Wessex Water employees, our staff, and local volunteers to commemorate 100 years since the end of World War One and in memory of the Wiltshire citizens who gave their lives. These new plantings enhance the riverside setting and contribute to long-term flood resilience and climate goals.
Getting There & Getting Around
- Westmead Playing Field is a short (5-10 minute) walk from Chippenham High Street
- Paid parking is available at Westmead Lane Car Park, located at the entrance to the playing field. Other nearby car parks include Gladstone Road, Borough Parade and Wood Lane Car Parks.
- A path runs around one edge of the field, making it accessible for pushchairs, wheelchairs and bikes
- The Sustrans National Cycle Route 403 runs along the edge of the field, connecting it to the wider town and countryside via safe, off-road paths
- A pedestrian underpass beneath the A4 bypass links Westmead Playing Field to the adjacent Westmead Open Space, where you’ll find a circular riverside walking route
- The field can also be accessed from Little Englands and from the blue bridge which crosses the River Avon opposite the Charter Road estate.
Whether you’re stopping by for a climb, letting the children explore the play area, or just taking a stroll, Westmead Playing Field is a great starting point for enjoying the outdoors in Chippenham – with something for everyone, including four-legged friends.
