4.6
(328)
2,913
hikers
195
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around Poulshot are characterized by the classic Wiltshire countryside, featuring picturesque landscapes and a diverse network of paths. The area is defined by the historic Kennet and Avon Canal, including the impressive Caen Hill Locks, and gentle rolling fields. Hikers can explore well-maintained byways, grassy paths, and quiet country lanes, often with minimal elevation changes. Nearby woodlands and green spaces also contribute to the varied terrain available for family outings.
Last updated: May 20, 2026
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.
5.0
(1)
23
hikers
11.4km
02:57
70m
70m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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5.0
(1)
5
hikers
11.5km
03:05
130m
130m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
3
hikers
8.04km
02:07
70m
70m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
2
hikers
15.2km
03:59
120m
120m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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opens midday until 3pm then reopens 6pm. food looks great!
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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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There are over 200 family-friendly hiking trails around Poulshot, offering a wide variety of options for all ages and abilities. Many of these are rated as easy or moderate, perfect for a day out with the family.
The family-friendly trails around Poulshot feature a mix of well-maintained byways, grassy paths, and quiet country lanes. Many routes follow the historic Kennet and Avon Canal, offering flat, easy walking along the towpath. You'll also find gentle gradients through rolling countryside and woodlands.
Yes, there are several easy and short walks perfect for families with young children. For example, the Caen Hill Locks – Caen Hill Locks loop from Rowde is just over 3 km and offers a gentle stroll along the canal, ideal for little legs and pushchairs.
Absolutely. Many of the family-friendly routes around Poulshot are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. The Caen Hill Locks – Caen Hill Locks loop from Poulshot is a popular circular option, providing a scenic journey through the local landscape.
Family hikes around Poulshot offer a wealth of interesting sights. You can explore the impressive Caen Hill Locks, a marvel of canal engineering, or discover sections of the ancient The Wansdyke Path. For panoramic views, consider routes that offer glimpses of Morgan's Hill or the iconic Westbury White Horse.
Generally, yes, many of the countryside paths and canal towpaths around Poulshot are suitable for dogs. However, always keep dogs under control, especially when passing livestock in fields, and be mindful of local signage regarding lead requirements. Remember to carry water for your dog and clean up after them.
Parking is generally available near popular starting points for walks, particularly around the Caen Hill Locks area and in villages like Rowde. Many routes utilize quiet country lanes where roadside parking might be an option, but always check for local restrictions and be considerate of residents.
While Poulshot itself is a small village, some trailheads, particularly those along the Kennet and Avon Canal near Devizes, may be accessible via local bus services. It's advisable to check local bus timetables for routes connecting to Devizes or other nearby towns that serve as starting points for walks.
Yes, you'll find options for refreshments near many of the family-friendly trails. The Caen Hill Locks area, for instance, has the Caen Hill Café. Additionally, local pubs in nearby villages often welcome hikers and offer a chance to refuel after your walk.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the picturesque landscapes, the impressive engineering of the Caen Hill Locks, and the peaceful, varied terrain that makes it ideal for family outings.
For a moderate family hike with varied scenery, consider the Caen Hill Locks – Devizes Wharf loop from Rowde. This route covers over 11 km, combining canal-side walking with sections through the countryside, offering a good balance of challenge and reward for active families.


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