Downton is a large ancient Wiltshire village situated 6 miles south of Salisbury, just outside the New Forest National park. It is a thriving community having its own schools, shops, pubs and businesses, village hall and recreation areas – including a football pitch, bowling green and leisure centre with a gym and tennis courts. There is a range of clubs or societies and a popular village brass band. Every year the Cuckoo Fair attracts around 20,000 visitors to its many stalls, with live music, dance and other entertainments. The village is also well known for its fishing, its award winning local breweries and as a centre for exploring the River Avon and New Forest.