The best walks and hikes around North Newnton
4.6
(376)
2,200
hikers
151
hikes
Hikes around North Newnton explore the Vale of Pewsey, located within the North Wessex Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The region is characterized by rolling chalk downlands, steep-sided dry valleys, and the level towpath of the Kennet & Avon Canal. This varied landscape provides a mix of gentle canal-side walks and more challenging routes with elevation gain over the surrounding hills.
Best hiking trails around North Newnton
- The most popular hiking route is Walkers Hill – Giant's Grave Hillfort loop from Woodborough, a 14.7 mile (23.7 km) trail that takes about 6 hours 23 minutes to complete. This difficult route involves significant elevation gain and passes historical sites.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is Ladies Bridge (Bridge No. 120) – View of the Alton White Horse loop from Woodborough, a moderate 7.6 mile (12.3 km) path. The route combines canal towpaths with field tracks and offers views of a chalk hill figure.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the The Millstream Pub loop from Marden, a 4.0 mile (6.4 km) trail leading through the Wiltshire countryside, often completed in about 1 hour 38 minutes.
- Hiking around North Newnton is defined by chalk downlands, canal towpaths, and ancient hillforts. The network of North Newnton circular walks offers options for different ability levels, from easy strolls to demanding hikes.
- The routes in North Newnton are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 300 reviews. More than 2,000 hikers have used komoot to explore North Newnton's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 27, 2026
4.8
(9)
32
hikers
23.7km
06:23
290m
290m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
16
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
4.3
(4)
10
hikers
15.3km
03:59
110m
110m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(5)
11
hikers
6.56km
01:40
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
hikers
7.65km
01:58
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
It's an 87-mile (140 km) long waterway that links the River Avon at Bristol with the River Kennet at Newbury, which in turn connects to the River Thames at Reading. This effectively created an inland navigation route between Bristol and London, avoiding the potentially treacherous sea voyage around the tip of Cornwall. * While originally built for commercial purposes during the Industrial Revolution to transport goods and materials, it later declined with the advent of railways. Today, its primary purpose is for leisure activities such as boating, canoeing, fishing, walking, and cycling. It's also vital for wildlife conservation.
0
0
One of many along the enchanting Kennet and Avon Canal
0
0
I only rested for a short time, behind a tree, in a little gully. The weather was bad, and didn't want to risk getting any colder. But I imagine the views on a clear summers day would be something to admire.
0
0
Some really beautiful canal boats to be found along the walkway
0
0
Adam’s Grave on Walker's Hill in Alton, the most dramatically located Neolithic long barrow in Wiltshire and the site of battles in 592 and 715. The area surrounding Walker's Hill is pitted and speckled with barrows and ditches of many sizes and shapes.
0
0
There's often cows grazing nearby but they are docile enough and I had no trouble walking past them but worst knowing if you plan on bringing a dog
0
0
The Pewsey White Horse was cut in 1937 but replaced an older horse cut in 1785. The best view is while you run from Pewsey to the horse along the awesome straight trail between fields.
0
0
Decent size car park with access to a myriad of beautiful walks including Milk Hill Wiltshire’s highest top.
1
0
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there many hiking trails around North Newnton?
Yes, there is a wide selection of routes to explore. You can find over 150 hiking trails around North Newnton, ranging from easy strolls along the canal to challenging treks across the chalk downlands.
What do other hikers think of the trails in this area?
The trails around North Newnton are highly regarded by the komoot community. Hikers often praise the stunning views from the downlands, the peaceful walks along the Kennet & Avon Canal, and the rich sense of history found at ancient sites throughout the landscape.
Are there any easy, family-friendly walks?
Absolutely. The region offers many gentle walks suitable for the whole family. The towpaths along the Kennet & Avon Canal are flat and provide great opportunities for spotting wildlife. The area's woodlands, like the nearby Savernake Forest, also have accessible paths for a leisurely day out.
Can I bring my dog on the trails?
Yes, North Newnton and the surrounding Vale of Pewsey are generally very dog-friendly. You'll find plenty of space for your dog to explore on public footpaths. However, always be mindful of livestock in fields and keep your dog on a lead where required, especially during lambing season.
Are there any circular walks that start and end in the same place?
Most of the popular routes in the area are circular walks. For a moderate loop with historical interest, consider the Pewsey White Horse loop from Manningford Bohune, which takes you up to one of the region's famous chalk figures.
What are the main landscape features I'll see when hiking?
The landscape is incredibly varied. Expect to see the rolling chalk hills of the North Wessex Downs, steep-sided dry valleys known as 'combes', and the tranquil, level towpath of the Kennet & Avon Canal. You'll also walk through open farmland and secluded woodlands.
Are there any walks that include a pub stop?
Yes, several routes incorporate a traditional country pub. A great option is the Ladies Bridge (Bridge No. 120) – The Golden Swan, Wilcot loop from Woodborough, which combines a scenic canal walk with a stop at a well-regarded pub in Wilcot.
What historical sites can I see on a walk?
The region is rich in history. On many hikes, you can encounter prehistoric sites like Neolithic long barrows, such as the Cat's Brain Longbarrow near the village, and Iron Age hillforts. The landscape is also famous for its chalk figures, including the Alton White Horse.
Are there any long-distance trails that pass through the area?
Yes, North Newnton is close to some famous long-distance paths. The Ridgeway National Trail, often called 'Britain's oldest road', runs nearby, offering expansive views. The 90-mile White Horse Trail, which connects the various chalk hill figures of Wiltshire, also passes through the region.
What is the best time of year to hike around North Newnton?
You can hike here year-round, but late spring and summer are particularly beautiful when the wildflowers are in bloom and the days are long. Autumn offers stunning colours in the woodlands, while crisp winter days can provide clear, far-reaching views from the hilltops.
Where is a good place to park for a hike?
Parking availability varies by route. Many walks start from villages like Woodborough, Marden, or Pewsey, which have on-street parking or small car parks. For canal-side walks, there are often designated parking spots near the main bridges and locks. Always check for local parking restrictions before you set off.
Can I get to the walking trails using public transport?
Yes, the town of Pewsey has a mainline train station with services from London and the west. From Pewsey, you can access a network of footpaths that connect to North Newnton and the wider Vale, making it a good starting point if you are arriving by train.
Most popular attractions around North Newnton
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
