The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Fonthill Gifford
4.7
(298)
1,571
hikers
100
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around Fonthill Gifford are set within a landscape of rolling hills, tranquil lakes, and diverse woodlands in Wiltshire. The region features gentle relief with sections of the Upper Greensand ridge, offering accessible routes with moderate elevation changes. Hikers can explore serene lakeside paths, open farmland, and historical estates, providing varied scenery suitable for families.
Best family friendly hiking trails around Fonthill Gifford
- The most popular family friendly hiking route is Fonthill Lake – The Beckford Arms loop from Fonthill Gifford, an easy 2.6 miles (4.2 km) trail that takes about 1 hour 9 minutes to complete. This path offers pleasant views of Fonthill Lake and passes by a well-known local pub.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Fonthill Lake – Holy Trinity Church loop from Fonthill Gifford, an easy 2.6 miles (4.1 km) path. This route combines lakeside scenery with a visit to the historic Holy Trinity Church.
- Local hikers also love the Fonthill Lake loop from Fonthill Gifford, a 1.4 miles (2.3 km) trail leading through the tranquil Fonthill Lake area, often completed in about 36 minutes.
- Hiking around Fonthill Gifford is defined by serene lakeside paths, diverse woodlands, and rolling hills, with options ranging from easy strolls to moderate hikes. The network offers routes suitable for various ability levels, including those with children.
- The routes in Fonthill Gifford are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 270 reviews. More than 1600 hikers have used komoot to explore Fonthill Gifford's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 1, 2026
4.8
(5)
18
hikers
7.88km
02:07
100m
100m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
hikers
4.28km
01:09
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.0
(1)
4
hikers
4.13km
01:06
50m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
hikers
2.29km
00:36
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
hikers
6.40km
01:47
130m
130m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
A lovely pub half way round. Or if you’re tight for time park near here and just walk around the lake
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Fonthill Lake is part of the Fonthill Estate, which dates back to 1533. The lake is natural but has been landscaped over the years and used to power mills as well as for pleasure. Today it's a great place to run, with a footpath along the western shore.
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"Southwest of the [Fonthill Bishop] village, an archway with two flanking lodges spans the road to Fonthill Gifford. This entrance to Fonthill Park was probably built c. 1756 to designs of John Vardy; long decorative walls, with urn finials, were added on both sides of the road c. 1860. The whole was designated as Grade I listed in 1966." Cit. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fonthill_Bishop
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Nice segment from the arch pictured at Fonthill Bishop up through the park to the site of the old arch at Fonthill Gifford, adjacent to the excellent Beckford Arms!
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Fonthill Lake is a tranquil stretch of water nestling in the picturesque Fonthill Estate. You can hike right along the west banks of the lake and watch impressive displays of birdlife at all times of year. The lake was used as the location for the river scenes in the movie Chocolat, which starred Juliette Binoche and Johnny Depp.
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All Saints is a charismatic Grade I-listed church that was built throughout the 13th, 14th and 15th centuries. Inside, you find an unusual 12th-century stone font bowl on a short cylindrical base. There are also two box pews with doors that date from the 1600s, whilst the rest of pews and choir stalls are from the 1800s.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available around Fonthill Gifford?
There are 6 family-friendly hiking trails around Fonthill Gifford featured in this guide. Most of these are rated as easy, making them suitable for various ages and fitness levels.
What do other hikers enjoy most about family-friendly hiking in Fonthill Gifford?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from 277 reviews. Hikers often praise the tranquil Fonthill Lake, the diverse woodlands, and the charming villages that make these routes so enjoyable for families.
Are there any easy, short walks suitable for young children or toddlers?
Yes, for a very accessible option, consider the Fonthill Lake loop from Fonthill Gifford. It's an easy 2.2 km route with minimal elevation, perfect for little legs or those with strollers.
Are there any circular routes that pass by local pubs or cafes for a break?
Absolutely! The Fonthill Lake – The Beckford Arms loop from Fonthill Gifford is an easy 4.2 km circular trail that includes a stop at the well-known Beckford Arms, offering a perfect spot for refreshments.
What kind of landscapes can we expect on these family-friendly trails?
The trails traverse a beautiful mix of serene Fonthill Lake shores, peaceful woodlands, and open farmland. You'll experience rolling hills and gentle relief, offering varied and picturesque scenery for your family adventure.
Are there any historical or interesting landmarks to see along the routes?
Many routes incorporate historical elements. For example, the All Saints Church – Fonthill Lake loop from Fonthill Gifford passes by the historic All Saints Church. You might also spot glimpses of the Fonthill Estate's rich past.
Which trail offers a good balance of distance and points of interest for a family outing?
The Fonthill Lake – Holy Trinity Church loop from Fonthill Gifford is an excellent choice. This easy 4.1 km route combines the beauty of Fonthill Lake with the historical charm of Holy Trinity Church, providing a rewarding experience for the whole family.
Are there any trails that offer panoramic views?
While the immediate family-friendly trails focus on the lake and woodlands, the wider region boasts stunning viewpoints. Nearby, you can find Win Green Summit and Cold Kitchen Hill Trig Point, which offer breathtaking panoramic views over Blackmore Vale and Salisbury Plain.
What are some other natural attractions or reserves nearby that we could visit?
Beyond the immediate trails, the area is rich in natural beauty. Consider visiting Birdhenge or the Wylye Down National Nature Reserve for more opportunities to explore the local flora and fauna.
Is there a longer, but still easy, option for families wanting a bit more of a challenge?
Yes, for families looking for a slightly longer walk without significant difficulty, the Fonthill Lake – The Beckford Arms loop from Fonthill Gifford is an easy 6.3 km route. It offers more time to enjoy the varied scenery and still includes a pub stop.
What is the best time of year to go hiking with family in Fonthill Gifford?
Fonthill Gifford is beautiful year-round. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, summer offers pleasant weather for lakeside strolls, autumn showcases vibrant foliage in the woodlands, and even winter provides crisp, quiet walks. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.
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