The best walks and hikes in Wiltshire

The Broadmead & Bybrook loop from Castle Combe offers a picturesque hiking experience through the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. You'll hike along riverbanks, through woodlands, and past pastoral fields, with sections winding along a golf course. This moderate 3.1-mile (4.9 km) loop involves about 217 feet (66 metres) of climbing and typically takes around 1 hour and 20 minutes to complete. In spring, the beech woodlands come alive with wild garlic, adding a special charm to your hike.

The trail starts from the charming village of Castle Combe, making it easy to access. Be prepared for varied surfaces, including some sections that can be overgrown, muddy, and slippery, especially after rain. Sturdy walking boots are highly recommended to ensure your comfort and safety. The route can also be prone to flooding in winter, so check conditions before you go. While enjoyable year-round, spring and autumn are particularly gorgeous times to visit, offering pleasant weather and vibrant natural beauty.

Castle Combe, often called "the prettiest village in England," is a major highlight and your starting point, featuring 13th-century architecture and a 14th-century market cross. As you hike, you'll discover historical elements like the ruins of Nettleton Mill, an 18th-century watermill, and an ancient clapper bridge. The countryside here is a designated conservation area, rich in wildflowers and birds. This area is part of the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, known for its rolling hills and hidden valleys. The trail offers shade in warmer weather and remains accessible even after snow, providing a unique experience in different seasons.

The Archaeology Trail & the Ridgeway loop from Avebury offers a moderate hiking experience through rolling chalk downland. You'll cover 5.4 miles (8.7 km) with an elevation gain of 290 feet (89 metres), taking about 2 hours and 18 minutes. The terrain features hard tracks, pavements, and gently sloping chalk downs, which can be muddy after rain. Expect wide, open views across sweeping grasslands and far-reaching vistas. You can walk freely among the massive stones of the Avebury Stone Circle, which encompasses part of the village itself.

The trail starts within the Avebury World Heritage Site, making it easily accessible for exploration. While the research doesn't specify parking or public transport details, starting in Avebury provides a clear entry point. Be prepared for uneven surfaces, and note that some paths may be muddy and slippery after rain. The area is generally accessible, but some parts are not suitable for wheelchairs or those with limited mobility. Consider visiting during May to see carpets of bluebells, and keep an eye out for red kites and barn owls.

This route is exceptionally notable for its rich historical and archaeological significance. It follows parts of The Ridgeway, often called "Britain's oldest road," used for over 5,000 years. You will encounter a wealth of prehistoric sites, including Silbury Hill, Europe's largest ancient man-made mound, and West Kennet Long Barrow, a significant prehistoric tomb. The trail also passes The Sanctuary and offers views of Iron Age hill forts and Bronze Age burial mounds. This journey through the North Wessex Downs National Landscape immerses you in a landscape shaped by human activity for millennia.

Embark on the Bradford-on-Avon & Avoncliff loop, an easy 3.2-mile (5.2 km) hike with 302 feet (92 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking 1 hour and 26 minutes to complete. You will follow tranquil canal-side towpaths and riverside paths, then wind through fields and woodlands, offering diverse scenery. A highlight is the impressive Avoncliff Aqueduct, carrying the Kennet and Avon Canal over the River Avon, a true engineering marvel on your route.

This trail conveniently starts from the charming Saxon town of Bradford-on-Avon, which provides amenities like cafes and shops. You can easily reach the starting point by train, as both Bradford-on-Avon and Avoncliff have stations. While much of the path is flat and accessible, some sections involve uphill climbs, making it suitable for most fitness levels and families.

The Bradford-on-Avon & Avoncliff loop is notable for its rich blend of history and natural beauty. Beyond the aqueduct, you will encounter the magnificent 14th-century Bradford-on-Avon Tithe Barn, showcasing centuries of heritage. The trail also offers a captivating mix of waterside tranquility along the Kennet and Avon Canal and River Avon, combined with the rolling hills and charming countryside of Wiltshire.

Embark on the Great Bedwyn and Wilton Canal Loop, a moderate hike that takes you through varied landscapes over 5.2 miles (8.4 km). You'll gain 198 feet (60 metres) in elevation, typically completing the route in about 2 hours and 11 minutes. This circular path offers a peaceful journey alongside the Kennet & Avon Canal, where you can watch canal boats glide by and spot local wildlife. As you walk, you'll encounter the historic Wilton Windmill, a prominent landmark on the horizon, and the calm waters of Wilton Water reflecting the sky. The trail also guides you through ancient woodlands and charming villages, providing a diverse and engaging outdoor experience.

Planning your hike on this loop is straightforward. The trail is generally accessible, with paths suitable for various skill levels, despite its moderate classification. You can usually find parking in Great Bedwyn, which serves as the starting point for this route. Always remember to check local signage for any specific parking regulations before you begin your adventure.

This trail is nestled within the beautiful North Wessex Downs National Landscape, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The route's highlight, the Kennet & Avon Canal, is a historic waterway that connects the River Kennet at Reading with the River Avon at Bath, offering a glimpse into England's industrial heritage. The presence of Wilton Windmill, a working mill, adds a unique historical and visual element to your journey through this picturesque region.

Embark on the Tollard Royal & Berwick Down loop from Win Green, a moderate hike spanning 5.5 miles (8.8 km) with an elevation gain of 594 feet (181 metres). This route takes approximately 2 hours and 28 minutes to complete, guiding you through varied terrain including gravel paths, unpaved sections, and chalk tracks. You will traverse woodlands, open fields, and downland hillsides, experiencing both steep climbs and descents. The highlight is Win Green, the highest point in the Cranborne Chase AONB, where a distinctive clump of beech trees atop a Bronze Age bowl barrow marks the summit, offering expansive panoramic views across several counties.

Be prepared for diverse ground conditions; bridleways can become muddy after rain or snow, and some steep paths are best walked downhill, especially when damp. Sure-footedness is required, and sturdy shoes are highly recommended for your comfort and safety. As you hike, you will pass through charming villages like Tollard Royal, where you might consider a stop at the King John Inn, and Berwick St James, which features a church and a pub.

This trail is nestled within the Cranborne Chase & West Wiltshire Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, underscoring its ecological importance and natural beauty. Parts of the route follow the historic Ox Drove, an ancient droving route, and incorporate sections of the Wessex Ridgeway. Keep an eye out for local wildlife such as skylarks, hares, pheasants, and kites, which are often spotted in this protected landscape.

The Fonthill Lake loop from Hindon offers a picturesque hiking experience through tranquil lakeside views, historic estate grounds, and rolling countryside. You will traverse varied terrain, including gravelly tracks, woodlands, and open farmland, with views of the serene Fonthill Lake and its abundant birdlife. This moderate route covers 7.6 miles (12.2 km) with 564 feet (172 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 3 hours and 19 minutes to complete.

Starting from the charming village of Hindon, which boasts an attractive high street, pubs, and a village shop, the trail is generally accessible but requires a good level of fitness. While the paths are mostly easy, some sections can be muddy, and sure-footedness is beneficial. If you prefer a shorter outing, easier loops around Fonthill Lake are also available.

This trail provides a unique opportunity to explore the historic Fonthill Estate, dating back to 1533, which was once home to the famous Fonthill Abbey. Fonthill Lake itself is notable for its cinematic past, having been featured in the movie *Chocolat*, and you can often spot impressive birdlife here. You might also encounter historic elements like grottoes and an impressive gateway within the estate grounds.

Embark on a moderate 4.6-mile (7.4 km) hike through the scenic Cranbourne Chase & West Wiltshire Downs, gaining 462 feet (141 metres) over approximately 2 hours and 4 minutes. This circular route takes you through classic Wiltshire countryside, offering views of rolling downland, ancient woodlands, and farmland. You'll pass by the impressive ruins of Old Wardour Castle, a key visual landmark, and wind through traditional villages like Donhead St Andrew, with paths that can be muddy in places.

The loop conveniently starts from Wardour, with free parking available at Old Wardour Castle, making it an easy access point. Be prepared for varied terrain, as paths consist of footpaths, bridleways, and quiet country lanes, which can get muddy, especially after rain. This route is dog-friendly, and you'll even find water bowls for your canine companion at the castle. Consider starting your hike earlier in the day to fully enjoy the historical sites and natural beauty.

This area is part of the Cranborne Chase, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, known for its distinctive character and historic elements. The trail's main highlights are the two Wardour Castles; the ruined 14th-century Old Wardour Castle, famous for inspiring a film, and the impressive 18th-century Palladian-style New Wardour Castle. You will also encounter ancient holloways and the River Nadder, adding to the rich historical and natural context of your journey.

Embark on the Dundas & Avoncliff loop from Bradford-on-Avon, a moderate hiking trail that blends natural beauty with historical engineering. This 8.2-mile (13.2 km) route, typically taking 3 hours and 34 minutes to complete, features a total elevation gain of 595 feet (181 metres) across its hilliest sections. You'll follow the peaceful Kennet and Avon Canal towpath, enjoying picturesque views of colorful narrowboats and the River Avon, with varied surfaces including gravel, natural paths, and paved sections. The trail offers charming spots like Brassknocker Basin and views of the southern Cotswolds' rolling hills.

Planning your hike on this loop is straightforward, with good public transport options available. You can easily access the trail via railway stations at Avoncliff and Freshford, making it convenient to start or end your journey. Along the way, you'll find opportunities for refreshment, such as the Cross Guns at Avoncliff and the Angelfish Cafe near Dundas Aqueduct, perfect for a break. The varied terrain, including gravel and natural paths, means you should wear appropriate footwear for a comfortable experience.

This loop is notable for its impressive engineering, showcasing a unique "transportation theme" as it closely follows the river, railway, and canal. You will cross the magnificent Dundas Aqueduct, designed by John Rennie, which carries the Kennet & Avon Canal over both the River Avon and the railway. Another highlight is the Avoncliff Aqueduct, a remarkable structure over 100 meters long, also carrying the canal across the River Avon. The 14th-century Bradford-on-Avon Tithe Barn adds a touch of ancient history to your journey.

Embark on a moderate hike through the Ancient Oaks loop in Savernake Forest, a 7.1-mile (11.4 km) journey that takes about 3 hours and 2 minutes to complete. You will gain 429 feet (131 metres) in elevation as you wander past some of Britain's most venerable trees, including the impressive Big Belly Oak. The route offers a peaceful immersion into ancient woodlands, with diverse scenery and a chance to connect with nature's enduring giants.

When planning your visit, be aware that while the trail is generally accessible, certain sections can become quite wet and muddy, especially after rainfall. It is wise to wear appropriate waterproof footwear to ensure a comfortable experience. Parking is typically available for visitors, making it convenient to start your adventure into this historic forest.

This trail is notable for guiding you through Savernake Forest, a unique woodland managed by Forestry England, which boasts a remarkable collection of ancient trees. Many of these oaks are over 1,000 years old, offering a tangible link to centuries past. You will also experience the impressive beech-lined Grand Avenue, a distinctive feature that adds to the forest's unique character and historical significance.