4.6
(325)
2,899
hikers
243
hikes
Hikes around Poulshot explore the rural Wiltshire countryside, characterized by rolling hills and pastoral fields. The region's most prominent feature is the Kennet and Avon Canal, with many trails following its towpath, particularly around the Caen Hill Locks. Routes consist of a mix of well-maintained byways, grassy paths, and quiet country lanes, offering generally gentle gradients.
Last updated: May 14, 2026
5.0
(10)
109
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(7)
94
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.7
(6)
22
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(3)
8
hikers
8.05km
02:04
40m
40m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
21
hikers
3.03km
00:49
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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With 29 locks in a flight over a distance of 3.2 kilometres (2 miles) and a rise of 72 metres (237 feet) . The first lock at Foxhangers Wharf and the last lock in Devizes town.
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Busy locks! Bit of a f*cker if your flow gets interrupted - but always make sure pedestrians are primary user! Pretty to look at!
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The Caen Hill Locks are one of the highlights of Route 4 on the Avon K Canal. Physically this is interesting. The water flows down the mountain, but the ship floats up the mountain lock by lock due to its own buoyancy.
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make sure you check what time the café opens when planning your visit
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Great place to stop for tea & cake, with fab view over the countryside and large outdoor seating area. Expect it to be busy on the weekends of course.
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Yes, the area is excellent for circular hikes. Many trails are designed as loops, starting and finishing in the same place, which is convenient if you're arriving by car. You can find routes of various lengths, from short village strolls to longer countryside explorations that take in the Kennet and Avon Canal.
Most trails in the countryside are suitable for dogs, but always be mindful of livestock in fields and keep your dog on a lead where required. For a quieter, off-lead walk, locals enjoy The Nature Trail near Devizes, which is known for being a safe and peaceful spot for walking dogs.
Absolutely. The relatively flat terrain, especially along the canal towpaths, makes it a great choice for families. For a short and manageable walk that's still interesting, consider the Heron at the Canal Lock loop from Bowerhill. It's an easy 5 km walk with minimal elevation, perfect for little legs.
Poulshot is a small village, so parking is generally limited to on-street options. Please park considerately, avoiding blocking driveways or access for farm vehicles. For walks centered on the Caen Hill Locks, there are often dedicated pay-and-display car parks near the canal, such as the one in Devizes, which can be a more reliable starting point.
Yes, combining a walk with a pub stop is a popular activity here. Several routes pass through or near villages like Poulshot, Seend, and Rowde, which have traditional pubs. You can plan a route that starts or ends near a pub for a rewarding meal or drink. For example, some trails pass near The Raven Inn in Poulshot.
There is a wide variety of options, with over 260 hiking routes to explore in the region. These range from very easy, short strolls to more challenging full-day hikes, ensuring there's a trail for every fitness level and interest.
The hiking routes around Poulshot are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 stars. Hikers often praise the stunning scenery along the Kennet and Avon Canal, particularly the impressive Caen Hill Locks, and the peacefulness of the surrounding Wiltshire countryside.
A walk to the Caen Hill Locks offers a unique blend of natural beauty and industrial heritage. You'll follow the tranquil towpath of the Kennet and Avon Canal, watching narrowboats navigate the impressive flight of 29 locks. The surrounding landscape is classic Wiltshire countryside, with rolling green fields and pastoral views.
Yes, there are plenty of easy options. The area has over 120 designated easy routes, many of which feature flat terrain along canal towpaths or on well-maintained village paths. A great example is the Seend Locks loop from Rowde, which is a gentle 6.9 km walk through fields and along the canal.
For some of the most stunning panoramic views in the area, consider a hike that takes you up to Morgan's Hill. This spot is highly recommended by locals for its beautiful, far-reaching vistas across the Wiltshire landscape.
Accessing the trailheads directly by public transport can be challenging as Poulshot is a rural village. The nearby town of Devizes has better bus connections. From there, you can start several walks, including those heading towards the Caen Hill Locks, or take a taxi to a more remote starting point.
Yes, if you're looking for a more substantial walk, you could try the Grassy Field at Sunset loop from Bowerhill. This moderate 8 km route offers a good mix of terrain and will give you a greater sense of the rolling countryside that defines the region.


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