Wiltshire walks

Discover the Best Walks in Wiltshire

Located in South West England, Wiltshire offers plenty of scenic landscapes for outdoor enthusiasts, featuring rolling chalk downs, ancient woodlands, historic waterways, and iconic prehistoric monuments. Whether you are looking for a gentle afternoon stroll or a rewarding half-day trek, Wiltshire provides some of the most charming countryside experiences in the UK.

Easy Dog-Friendly Walks in Wiltshire

Savernake Forest

Distance: 6.62 km | Duration: 2 hours 05 minutes

Terrain: woodland trails, forest tracks, grassy paths, arboretum paths, gentle slopes

Starting from Postern Hill Car Park, this peaceful 6–7 km circular route explores the heart of the ancient Savernake Forest, one of England's oldest woodlands. Following a network of broad forest tracks and quieter woodland paths, the route winds beneath towering canopies of oak and beech while showcasing many of the forest's most famous veteran trees. With only gentle elevation changes, it provides an accessible introduction to this historic landscape and stands out as a top choice for a relaxing Wiltshire walk.

The route passes several celebrated ancient oaks, including White Road Oak, Saddle Oak, True Braydon Oak, Surveyed Oak, Old Paunchy, and the magnificent Cathedral Oak, believed to be around 1,500 years old. Midway through the trail, walkers can explore the forest's arboretum, home to an impressive collection of tree species from around the world. The journey then continues along the broad Grand Avenue and quieter woodland trails rich in wildlife and seasonal colour.

Taking just over 2 hours to complete, this easy circular route combines fascinating natural history with tranquil woodland scenery. Dog owners will find this a fantastic outing, as the wide tracks make walking easy, though leads are recommended near wildlife habitats and busy car parks. Although sections can become muddy after wet weather, the gentle gradients make it an excellent option for anyone seeking a relaxing forest trek steeped in natural beauty.

Milton Lilbourne Scenic Downland Towards Pewsey

Distance: 9.03 km | Duration: 2 hours 55 minutes

Terrain: chalk downland, grassy hillside paths, farmland tracks, woodland paths, village lanes, stiles

Beginning at the church in the picturesque village of Milton Lilbourne, this scenic 9 km circular route explores the rolling chalk downs overlooking the Vale of Pewsey before returning through peaceful countryside and traditional Wiltshire villages. The route combines a rewarding climb onto the open downs with quieter field paths and woodland sections, offering a varied and accessible half-day adventure.

After ascending the downs, walkers are rewarded with sweeping panoramic views across the Vale of Pewsey as they follow the ridge past the prehistoric Giant's Grave long barrow, one of the area's most notable ancient monuments. The route then descends into the outskirts of Pewsey before turning back through the tiny hamlets of Kepnal and Fyfield.

The return journey crosses open farmland and woodland paths, with further opportunities to admire the surrounding downland scenery and look back towards the high ridge followed earlier in the walk. Dog owners should note that this route includes a few stiles and crosses working farmland where livestock often graze, requiring dogs to be kept under close control. Blending expansive chalk landscape views, prehistoric history, and charming rural villages, it is an ideal choice for walkers looking to experience the distinctive scenery of the North Wessex Downs.

Burbage to Graftons, Wilton and Crofton Beam Engines

Distance: 9.52 km | Duration: 2 hours 50 minutes

Terrain: farmland paths, field tracks, village lanes, waterside paths, canal towpaths

Starting from the village church in Burbage, this delightful 9-10 km circular route explores peaceful countryside, linking the picturesque villages of West Grafton, East Grafton, and Wilton. The path follows a mixture of well-maintained field paths, quiet country lanes, and gentle tracks, offering easy walking with minimal elevation gain and attractive views across the surrounding farmland.

The route passes through the charming Grafton villages before continuing towards Wilton, where walkers are rewarded with views of the historic Wilton Windmill. From here, the trail descends to the tranquil shores of Wilton Water before reaching the impressive Crofton Beam Engines, home to the world's oldest working steam-powered pumping engines.

After an opportunity to visit the nearby café or explore the historic site, the return journey follows a peaceful stretch of the Kennet and Avon Canal, providing scenic waterside walking rich in wildlife before returning to Burbage via Wolfhall Farm. For those exploring with dogs, this trail is very dog-friendly, though pets should be kept on leads along canal towpaths and through fields where farm livestock may be grazing. Taking just under 3 hours to complete, it offers a varied mix of open countryside, historic villages, industrial heritage, and tranquil canal scenery.

Moderate Walks in Wiltshire

From Milton Lilbourne to Easton Royal and on the Downs to Giant's Grave

Distance: 8.79 km | Duration: 2 hours 50 minutes

Terrain: farmland tracks, chalk downland paths, woodland tracks, village lanes, steep grassy slopes

Starting from the village of Milton Lilbourne, this scenic 9 km circular trail explores the peaceful countryside around Easton Royal before climbing onto the Wiltshire Downs for spectacular views across the Vale of Pewsey. Combining quiet farm tracks, woodland paths, and open chalk landscapes, the route offers a rewarding taste of the region's natural beauty and prehistoric heritage.

The walk begins by crossing farmland towards the charming village of Easton Royal before gradually rising onto the downs. As the route reaches higher ground, walkers are treated to expansive views across Pewsey Vale, with the landscape opening out around the prehistoric Giant's Grave long barrow. This ancient burial monument provides a memorable highlight, particularly in spring when the surrounding grasslands are rich with wildflowers, including early purple orchids.

The return journey follows the edge of woodland and open fields before a steep descent brings the route back through the peaceful countryside into Milton Lilbourne. Taking just under 3 hours to complete, this moderate route features some steeper sections and uneven downland paths, so sturdy footwear is highly recommended. It serves as an excellent shorter option for those wanting to experience the authentic character of the North Wessex Downs.

Avebury, West Kennett and Silbury Hill

Distance: 10.79 km | Duration: 3 hours 20 minutes

Terrain: field paths, chalk tracks, National Trail, riverside paths, country lanes, gentle hills

Starting from the National Trust car park in the historic village of Avebury, this fascinating 11 km circular trail explores the West Kennett and Silbury Hill. The route combines sections of the ancient Ridgeway National Trail with peaceful countryside paths, linking a remarkable collection of Neolithic monuments set within the rolling Wiltshire Downs and the tranquil Kennet Valley.

Leaving Avebury's famous stone circle behind, the trail climbs steadily onto Overton Down, where expansive views open across the surrounding countryside before joining the Ridgeway, one of Britain's oldest roads. Along the way, walkers pass the prehistoric Sanctuary, the attractive village of East Kennett, and have the opportunity to visit the remarkably well-preserved West Kennett Long Barrow.

The return journey passes the iconic Silbury Hill, the largest prehistoric artificial mound in Europe, before leading back to Avebury, where the vast stone circle, historic village, and National Trust facilities provide a fitting conclusion to the journey. Taking around 3 hours to complete, this moderately graded circular route features gentle climbs and excellent paths throughout. It offers an unforgettable journey through the heart of the Avebury World Heritage Site for anyone planning to walk Wiltshire and immerse themselves in ancient history.

Hackpen Hill and Overton Down from Avebury

Distance: 14.56 km | Duration: 4 hours 30 minutes

Terrain: chalk downland, bridleways, farm tracks, Ridgeway paths, field tracks, village lanes

Hackpen Hill and Overton Down walk starts from the historic village of Avebury; this rewarding 14-15 km circular trail climbs into the open landscapes of the North Wessex Downs, combining ancient heritage with some of the county's finest panoramic scenery. The route leaves behind the world-famous Avebury stone circle before crossing farmland and rising steadily onto the chalk downs to join a section of the ancient Ridgeway National Trail.

The trail follows quiet byways and downland tracks towards Berwick Bassett Down before climbing onto the high ground above the Vale of Pewsey. Joining the Ridgeway, walkers follow this historic route towards Hackpen Hill, where the famous white horse and sweeping views across the countryside provide a spectacular highlight and a perfect resting point.

The return journey retraces part of the Ridgeway before crossing Overton Down, offering further opportunities to appreciate the wide-open chalk landscape before descending back towards Avebury and its remarkable archaeological surroundings. Taking around 4-5 hours to complete, this moderate route involves a steady climb onto the downs but rewards outdoor enthusiasts with exceptional viewpoints, peaceful countryside, and a wonderful sense of history.

Looking for More? Exploring the Cotswold Border of Wiltshire

Exploring the Wiltshire section of the Cotswolds is a chance to experience some of the most beautiful and unspoilt countryside in England. Rolling limestone hills, peaceful valleys, flower-rich meadows, and honey-coloured stone villages create a landscape that is both scenic and timeless.

Walking through places such as Castle Combe, Lacock, and the villages around Malmesbury reveals quiet lanes, historic churches, traditional cottages, and welcoming country pubs. A network of well-marked footpaths and bridleways links the countryside with ancient woodlands and open farmland, while the area's gentle hills and panoramic viewpoints make it ideal for enthusiasts of all abilities seeking exceptional Wiltshire walks.

The Seasons of Wiltshire

Spring: Ancient woodlands fill with vibrant carpets of bluebells, hedgerows burst into fresh green growth, and chalk downs are dotted with wildflowers and grazing lambs.

Summer: Long, sunny days offer ideal conditions for exploring open countryside, with golden fields, rolling hills, and famous landmarks such as Stonehenge surrounded by buzzing wildlife.

Autumn: The landscape transforms into a canvas of rich golds, reds, and oranges as woodland trails become carpeted with fallen leaves and mist settles over the valleys at sunrise.

Winter: Frost sparkles across the chalk grasslands, bare trees reveal hidden historic churches and hill forts, and occasional snowfall creates striking scenery around ancient prehistoric monuments.

What You Need to Know About Walking in Wiltshire

No matter where you choose to venture in Wiltshire, there are endless memorable sights to explore. To get the most out of your outing, it is always best to come prepared for varying weather conditions. Chalk downland paths and open ridges can be windy and exposed, while low-lying valley routes and woodland tracks can become muddy during the wetter winter and spring months. Wearing sturdy, waterproof footwear and dressing in layers will ensure you stay comfortable on the trail.