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United Kingdom
England
South West England

Poulshot

The best walks and hikes around Poulshot

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.

Best hiking trails around Poulshot

  • The most popular hiking route is Caen Hill Locks – Caen Hill Locks loop from Wilts, Somerset and Weymouth Railway (Devizes Branch), a 6.9 mile (11.2 km) trail that takes around 2 hours 55 minutes to complete. The route features the impressive flight of locks on the Kennet and Avon Canal.
  • Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is Caen Hill Locks – Caen Hill Locks loop from Poulshot, an easy 1.9 mile (3.0 km) path. This shorter walk provides a direct way to experience the canal and its locks.
  • Local hiking enthusiasts also love the Seend Locks loop from Rowde, a 4.3 mile (6.9 km) trail leading through fields and along the canal, often completed in about 1 hour 48 minutes.
  • Hiking around Poulshot is defined by canal towpaths, rolling pastoral landscapes, and quiet country lanes. The network of trails provides options for different ability levels, from short waterside strolls to longer countryside loops.
  • The routes in Poulshot are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 280 reviews. More than 2,800 hikers have used komoot to explore Poulshot's varied terrain.

Last updated: May 14, 2026

5.0

(10)

109

hikers

#1.

Caen Hill Locks – Caen Hill Café loop from Wilts, Somerset and Weymouth Railway (Devizes Branch)

11.2km

02:55

80m

80m

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Moderate

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy
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Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

4.7

(3)

8

hikers

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy
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Tips from the Community

Mark
June 8, 2024, Caen Hill Locks

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.

Translated by Google

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Very pretty and impressive

Translated by Google

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Ashley
May 21, 2022, Caen Hill Locks

Nice gentle ride up by the flight of locks.

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Michael
September 19, 2021, Caen Hill Locks

make sure you check what time the café opens when planning your visit

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hillboy66
September 3, 2021, Caen Hill Locks

great view of Caen Hill Lock flight

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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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1

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there many circular walks available around Poulshot?

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.

Can I take my dog on the trails near Poulshot?

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.

Are there any family-friendly hikes in the area?

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.

What are the parking options for hikes starting in Poulshot?

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.

Are there any pub walks in the Poulshot area?

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.

How many hiking trails are there to choose from around 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.

What do other hikers think of the trails around Poulshot?

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.

What kind of scenery can I expect on a walk to Caen Hill Locks?

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.

Are there any easy hikes for beginners?

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.

Where can I find the best views while hiking near Poulshot?

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.

Are the trails accessible by public transport?

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.

Is there a longer, more challenging hike I can do?

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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