The best walks and hikes around Melksham

Yes, there are over 270 hiking routes to explore in the Melksham area. These range from short, easy strolls to more challenging long-distance paths, offering plenty of options for all fitness levels.

The komoot community rates the trails highly. Hikers often praise the peaceful riverside paths along the River Avon and the flat, scenic towpaths of the Kennet and Avon Canal. The landscape is a classic Wiltshire patchwork of open fields, hedgerows, and small woods.

Absolutely. The area is great for families, with many flat and accessible paths. The Avoncliff Bridge loop from Broughton Gifford is a moderate but relatively flat route that's good for a family outing. For something shorter, the Millennium Riverside Walk in Melksham itself offers a lovely, easy stroll along the river.

Yes, the trails around Melksham are generally dog-friendly. Riverside and canal paths are excellent for walking with dogs. However, many routes cross agricultural land, so be prepared to keep your dog on a lead, especially when livestock are present.

For those seeking a challenge, the region offers some excellent longer routes. The Caen Hill Locks – Caen Hill Locks loop from Semington is a demanding 13.2-mile (21.2 km) hike that rewards you with views of the famous 29 locks on the Kennet and Avon Canal.

The area has numerous easy circular walks perfect for beginners. Many routes start from picturesque villages like Lacock. A great option is the Lacock village & Abbey loop, which is a gentle 1.9-mile (3.1 km) walk that's easy to follow.

Many hikes in the area are rich in history. The walk to see the Thatched Cottages on Mons Lane loop from Bowden Hill takes you through the historic landscape around Lacock village. You can also explore routes that incorporate sections of the Kennet and Avon Canal, a significant feat of 18th-century engineering.

Melksham is perfectly situated for riverside and canal walks. You can explore trails along the banks of the River Avon, such as the local Millennium Riverside Walk. The nearby Kennet & Avon Canal towpath also provides miles of flat, scenic walking, with popular sections near Bowerhill and Semington.

Many walks start from villages or local attractions that have parking. For example, when walking the Millennium Riverside Walk, some people park in the public car park near the Waitrose in Melksham. For routes starting in villages like Lacock, there is a National Trust car park, though charges may apply for non-members.

Hiking is enjoyable year-round. Spring and summer offer lush green landscapes and vibrant wildlife, especially in nature reserves like Conigre Mead. Autumn provides beautiful colours, while crisp winter days can be perfect for a peaceful walk along the canal, though paths can be muddy after rain.

Yes, combining a walk with a pub visit is very popular here. The Sign of the Angel pub Loop from Lacock is a well-loved route that starts and ends near a historic pub in the village. Many other routes pass through villages like Broughton Gifford, which also have traditional pubs perfect for a post-hike refreshment.