The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Broad Hinton
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6,251
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Family friendly hiking trails around Broad Hinton are set within the North Wiltshire & Wessex Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The region features a blend of rolling hills, chalk downland, and verdant woodlands, providing diverse scenery for outdoor activities. A small river meanders through the area, and elevated points like Snow Hill offer expansive views across the Vale of Pewsey. The landscape is characterized by open meadows and arable land, with paths generally accessible for families.
Best family friendly…
Last updated: May 4, 2026
4.8
(4)
57
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
34
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.5
(2)
11
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
11
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
9
hikers
5.03km
01:19
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Best approached from the east by mountain bike so that you get a nice downhill to the ridgeway trail after the fort!
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Hike a bike for me on my gravel bike to get up here from the west but worth it, the views are stunning and the archeology very interesting
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On the left hand side of the Altar you will find the tomb of a 13th century Abbess. The slab bears evidence of an attempt to destroy it, probably during the reformation. The tomb was moved from elsewhere in the church during Victorian changes to the chancel area. As the lands at the north of the Benefice were under the control and ownership of Glastonbury Abbey, at which there was a Nunnery, it is entirely possible this Abbess was a significant figure. The tomb slab is remarkable and a very rare example of a slab tomb that is both etched and carved with a face.
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The Sir William Wroughton monument on the right in the chancel describes Elizabeth I as Queen of England and France although Mary, her predecessor, had lost Calais, the last remaining English possession in France in 1558 and Elizabeth renounced her claim to Calais in 1559.
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Lt. Colonel Francis Glanville, killed fighting for Charles I in 1645 at the battle of Bridgewater in the Civil War, has his helmet, gauntlets and a replica of his sword (the original is in the Royal Armoury) displayed above him. The Latin inscription ends “A greater hero England never saw, happily she did oft produce his equal”. The small reclining figure of a woman in her shroud at the bottom of this monument (usually hidden behind a bench seat) appears in Pevsner’s guide to Wiltshire:“her agonised features are not easily forgotten”. A panel from the Duke of Wellington’s funeral carriage (1851) hangs in the chancel in a glass case because the victor of Waterloo owned land locally.
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In the top left corner of the nave is a flight of stone steps which shows there was once a medieval rood screen to screen the chancel off from the laity, probably with a figure of Christ on the cross above. Next to the stone steps are George III’s Royal Arms, painted in 1763 and cleaned in 2008 – note the fleur de lys in the shield. The chancel contains some interesting monuments to the Glanville family. Sir John was Speaker of the House of Commons in 1640. He burned his own Manor House rather than let it be used by Cromwell’s troops. A famous lawyer, he spent three years in the Tower of London after the Civil War for holding illegal Assizes and later served Charles II, as he had Charles I, as Sergeant-at-Law.
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The sixteenth century was a bad time for this church. In 1553 parishioners refused to receive communion for fear of falling masonry. The broken stones allowed so many birds into the then chancel that the minister couldn’t stand by the communion table and there was no seat whilst reading the psalms. John Batewell, a vicar appointed in 1576, was officially censured for his inability to preach, neglect of catechizing and failure to wear the prescribed dress. However, a water colour of the church, painted in 1795 has text underneath which says that the church was “new built in the year 1634; brought to perfection in the year 1635; finished and beautified in the year 1636; a new pulpit erected in the year 1672; the first loft in the tower was boarded in 1676; the belfry and church porch paved in 1677”. The wonderful tie and hammer beam roof of the nave belongs to the 1634 rebuilding.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available around Broad Hinton?
There are 9 family-friendly hiking routes around Broad Hinton featured in this guide, ranging from easy strolls to moderate adventures. This includes a variety of circular paths suitable for different ages and abilities.
Are there any easy walks suitable for younger children or beginners?
Yes, for a gentler option, consider the Broad Hinton Village Centre loop from Broad Hinton. This easy 5 km route offers a pleasant walk with minimal elevation gain, perfect for families with younger children or those looking for a relaxed outing.
What kind of natural features and landscapes can we expect on these family hikes?
The family-friendly trails around Broad Hinton showcase the quintessential English countryside. You'll encounter rolling hills, verdant woodlands, and expansive chalk downland offering wide, open views. Some routes may pass by a small river, providing serene spots and opportunities to observe local wildlife like water birds. Elevated points often reward hikers with breathtaking vistas across the Vale of Pewsey and the North Wessex Downs.
Are there any historical landmarks or points of interest along the routes?
Absolutely! Many trails incorporate significant historical sites. You can explore sections of The Ridgeway National Trail, an ancient route with prehistoric origins. The iconic Hackpen White Horse is a prominent landmark on several walks, offering a rewarding viewpoint. Additionally, the wider area boasts incredible Neolithic and Iron Age sites like the Avebury Stone Circle, Silbury Hill, and West Kennet Long Barrow, which can be visited as part of a longer day out.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the family-friendly trails in Broad Hinton?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.46 stars from 696 ratings. Reviewers often praise the diverse scenery, the sense of history along ancient paths like The Ridgeway, and the well-maintained trails that make for enjoyable family outings. The panoramic views from elevated points are also frequently highlighted as a favorite aspect.
Are the family hiking routes around Broad Hinton suitable for dogs?
Many of the trails in the Broad Hinton area are dog-friendly, allowing your furry companions to join the adventure. However, as you'll be walking through agricultural land and near livestock, it's always best to keep dogs under close control, especially near fields with sheep or cattle. Be mindful that some paths may include stiles or gates.
Are there any circular routes for families that start and end in the same place?
Yes, many of the family-friendly routes around Broad Hinton are circular, making them convenient for starting and finishing at the same point. For example, the Broad Hinton Village Centre – Bincknoll Castle Earthworks loop from Broad Hinton is a moderate 9.7 km circular hike that offers historical interest and scenic views.
What is the best time of year to go hiking with family in Broad Hinton?
Broad Hinton offers enjoyable hiking experiences throughout the year. Spring brings vibrant wildflowers and pleasant temperatures, while summer provides longer daylight hours for extended adventures. Autumn showcases beautiful changing foliage. Even in winter, the chalk downland paths can be firm and offer crisp, clear views, though some paths might be muddier after rain. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.
Are there options for parking near the trailheads?
Parking is generally available near popular trailheads and villages in the Broad Hinton area. For routes starting from Hackpen White Horse or Barbury Castle, dedicated parking areas are usually present. When starting from Broad Hinton village, look for suitable public parking or consider routes that begin from local establishments if you plan to patronize them.
Can we reach any of the family-friendly trails using public transport?
While some routes might be accessible via local bus services to Broad Hinton village, public transport options can be limited for reaching specific trailheads further afield. It's advisable to check local bus timetables and routes in advance if you plan to rely on public transport for your hiking trip.
Are there any viewpoints on the family trails that offer great photo opportunities?
Absolutely! The elevated chalk downland and hillsides around Broad Hinton provide numerous stunning viewpoints. The climb towards the Hackpen White Horse offers fantastic panoramic vistas. Similarly, routes that ascend to areas like Snow Hill or near Barbury Castle provide expansive views across the Vale of Pewsey and the North Wessex Downs, perfect for family photos.
Are there any cafes or pubs near the family hiking routes for a refreshment stop?
Yes, Broad Hinton village itself has local establishments, such as the Crown Inn, which can be a great spot for refreshments before or after your hike. Some circular routes are designed to pass through or near villages where you might find a pub or cafe to refuel with your family.
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