Copehill Down

Copehill Down is a training complex on Salisbury Plain with over 80 buildings that replicate a Central European settlement at full scale. The structures are designed to withstand repeated training exercises and combat simulations.

The British Army established this training ground in 1988 to prepare soldiers for operations in built-up areas. The facility evolved over time to include different construction techniques and modern scenarios.

The site includes typical town elements such as a pub, train station, and a church, reflecting the layout and architecture of Central European settlements. These features help soldiers understand how people move through and use everyday urban spaces.

Visitors should know that buildings are constructed for intense use and have a functional, unrefined appearance. Walking is the best way to explore the different sections at your own pace.

A separate section was built from shipping containers to simulate more recent scenarios like Iraqi settlements. This newer area shows how training methods adapt to changing global situations.

GPS coordinates: 51.20700,-1.97713

Latest update: December 6, 2025 16:04