The best walks and hikes around Newbury
4.5
(826)
6,305
hikers
89
hikes
Hiking around Newbury offers diverse landscapes within the North Wessex Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The region features rolling hills, chalk downland, and extensive woodlands. The River Kennet, River Lambourn, and the Kennet and Avon Canal provide tranquil, mostly flat paths through the town and surrounding countryside. This area combines natural beauty with historical sites, offering varied terrain for outdoor activities.
Best hiking trails around Newbury
- The most popular hiking route is Goldwell Park & Kennett and Avon Canal…
Last updated: May 6, 2026
4.5
(15)
98
hikers
5.56km
01:25
10m
10m
Embark on an easy 3.5-mile (5.6 km) hike along the Goldwell Park & Kennett and Avon Canal loop from Newbury, offering a pleasant journey with only 47 feet (14 metres)…
4.5
(4)
7
hikers
15.7km
04:05
100m
100m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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5.0
(2)
13
hikers
22.3km
05:37
30m
30m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(6)
46
hikers
7.15km
01:51
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(8)
19
hikers
11.2km
02:53
60m
60m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
If you like your castles with great views and steeped in history, you'll like this place.
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Newbury is in Berkshire, not Hampshire, and the canal never enters Hampshire either.
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Discover this rare holy well located in Speen in Newbury. Historically, the well was thought to have healing qualities, healing anything from eye diseases to measles and rickets.
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This is a beautiful little church situated in Spleen, in the larger district of Newbury. The original church that was built here dated back to 1086 and some of the remains of the original building still exist today. It's a pleasant place for a rest mid-walk.
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Hampstead Lock is situated along the Kennet and Avon Canal. It's a lovely spot to stop and sit watching the canal boats go by.
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A small sluice to control the flow of the water between River Kennet and Kennet and Avon Canal.
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This is a fantastic country pub located on the banks of the River Kennet near Woolhampton. The pub has existed since 1850, and serves up a range of delicious dishes as well as cask ales. A great place to stop on a long walk.
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The Kennet and Avon Canal is a picturesque waterway that passes through Newbury in Hampshire. A scenic walkway takes you along the banks of the river, offering wonderful views of canal boats, charming locks, and idyllic countryside.
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More Information
Strolling Newbury’s waterways
Without a doubt, some of the best hiking trails in Newbury use its many waterways for inspiration. During the 18th century, the canal was extended to be navigable through Newbury, eventually creating a route from London to Bristol via the market town. Less than 100 years later, the canal’s trade purpose became defunct due to the railway. Today, the Kennet and Avon Canal is a much loved waterway that offers you an exceptionally beautiful way to explore the countryside.
For more watery walks from Newbury, follow the River Lambourn to Donnington, detouring to its ruined castle and returning to the riverbanks to the pretty Lambourne Valley. See the grasses wafting in the gentle flow, find willows tickling the surface and kingfishers clinging to reeds; this chalk stream is an important habitat for a whole host of wildlife.
To the east of the town and the famous Newbury Racecourse lies Thatcham Reed Beds nature reserve and a series of small lakes. Here, you can spot warblers and waterfowl, dragonflies and damselflies, and plenty more.
Exploring undulating woods and countryside
Fancy bluebell hunting on woodland walks from Newbury? Would you like to seek out the golden leaves in autumn or the snowdrops in winter? The countryside around this riverside town is home in many woodlands, each with a unique character. Hikes north past Donnington Castle lead you to Snelsmore Common with its blend of heathland and woodland filled with oak and birch. To the south, find Great Pen Wood with conifers and oaks, much of which is an ancient woodland site. Newton Common, Bowdown Woods, Fence Wood and the plantations at Stockcross are all packed with walking trails, gravel tracks and trees bursting with life.
Tracing history through Newbury
Newbury’s streets hold all sorts of interesting historical secrets and there are many parts of the town and its suburbs that are worth exploring. The West Berkshire Museum is housed in two of the town’s most exquisite buildings, the Cloth Hall and the Granary. The 19th-century corn exchange and the Gothic St Nicholas’ church also give you a glimpse into Newbury’s wealthy past.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Newbury?
There are over 90 hiking routes around Newbury, catering to various skill levels. You'll find a good mix of easy strolls, moderate walks, and some more challenging trails through the North Wessex Downs.
What types of landscapes can I expect to see while hiking in Newbury?
Newbury offers a diverse range of landscapes. You can explore the rolling hills and chalk downland of the North Wessex Downs, expansive heathland at Greenham Common, tranquil paths along the River Kennet and Avon Canal, and ancient woodlands like Bowdown Woods, known for bluebells in spring.
Are there any easy, family-friendly walks in Newbury?
Yes, Newbury has many easy routes suitable for families. The paths along the Kennet and Avon Canal are generally flat and well-maintained. An excellent option is the Goldwell Park & Kennett and Avon Canal loop from Newbury, which is an easy 5.5 km (3.5 miles) trail.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails in Newbury?
Many trails around Newbury are dog-friendly, especially those through woodlands and common lands like Greenham Common and Snelsmore Common. It's always recommended to keep dogs under control, particularly near livestock or in nature reserves. Check specific route details on komoot for any restrictions.
Are there any circular walks around Newbury?
Yes, many routes around Newbury are circular, allowing you to start and end in the same location. For example, the Newbury, Speen & Donnington Castle loop — North Wessex Downs is a moderate 15.7 km (9.8 miles) circular trail that includes historical sights and scenic views.
What historical landmarks or attractions can I see on a hike near Newbury?
Newbury's trails often pass by significant historical sites. You can hike to Combe Gibbet for far-reaching views, explore the ruins of Donnington Castle, or visit the Ladle Hill Iron Age Hillfort. Highclere Castle, famous for 'Downton Abbey,' also offers walking trails within its estate.
Are there any challenging hikes for experienced walkers?
While many routes are easy to moderate, there are more challenging options, particularly within the North Wessex Downs. These often involve steeper climbs and longer distances. The Newbury to The Rowbarge Freehouse via Kennet & Avon Canal Trail, at over 22 km (13.7 miles), is one of the more difficult routes available.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Newbury?
The hiking routes in Newbury are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 75 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse scenery, from tranquil canal paths to the expansive views of the North Wessex Downs, and the blend of natural beauty with historical interest.
Are there good options for a pub lunch along the hiking trails?
Yes, many routes in and around Newbury pass by traditional pubs. The Kennet and Avon Canal path, for instance, offers several opportunities to stop for refreshments. The Rowbarge is a popular pub that can be incorporated into longer walks.
How can I find more information about walking routes in the Newbury area?
For more detailed information on local walking routes and attractions, you can visit the official Newbury tourism website at visitnewbury.org.uk, which provides additional context on the region's outdoor offerings.
Are there any trails with notable viewpoints in Newbury?
Absolutely. The North Wessex Downs area, including locations like Combe Gibbet and Ladle Hill Iron Age Hillfort, offers spectacular, far-reaching views of the Berkshire countryside. Many trails through the downs provide panoramic vistas.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Newbury?
Newbury is enjoyable for hiking year-round. Spring brings beautiful bluebells to woodlands like Bowdown Woods, while autumn offers vibrant foliage. Summer is ideal for longer walks, and even winter can be pleasant for crisp, clear-day hikes, especially along the canal paths or open commons.
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