The best walks and hikes around Edington

Edington offers a wide variety of hiking options, with over 250 routes recorded on komoot. These range from easy strolls to more challenging climbs, ensuring there's something for every fitness level.

The hiking trails around Edington are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 300 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the combination of historical sites, such as Bratton Camp and Long Barrow, with the iconic views of the Westbury White Horse and the varied terrain of the Salisbury Plain.

While Edington is known for its many easy and moderate routes, there are a few more challenging options available. For instance, some routes through wooded areas and up hills like Tinhead Hill feature steeper climbs, offering a good workout and rewarding views of the rural scenery. You can find 7 routes classified as difficult on komoot.

The terrain around Edington is quite varied. You can expect rolling hills, open chalk downland, and sections through wooded areas. Trails often feature well-trodden paths, but some areas, especially on higher ground like Bratton Downs or Tinhead Hill, can be more exposed or have uneven surfaces. The proximity to Salisbury Plain means vast open spaces are also common.

Yes, Edington offers many family-friendly hiking options. There are over 130 easy routes, such as the Westbury White Horse – Bratton Camp and Long Barrow loop from Bratton, which is 4.0 miles (6.4 km) long and features prominent landmarks without excessive difficulty. These trails often combine gentle gradients with interesting historical sites or scenic views, making them enjoyable for all ages.

Many of the trails around Edington are dog-friendly, allowing you to enjoy the Wiltshire countryside with your canine companion. However, it's always advisable to keep dogs on a lead, especially when passing through areas with livestock or near roads. Some routes may pass through deer parks or nature reserves where specific rules for dogs might apply.

Yes, Edington is well-suited for circular walks. Many of the popular routes, such as the Bratton Camp and Long Barrow – Westbury White Horse loop from Bratton, are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point without retracing your steps. This makes planning your hike and parking more convenient.

While hiking near Edington, you'll encounter several notable natural features and landmarks. The most iconic is the Westbury White Horse, a large chalk figure visible from many trails. You can also explore Bratton Downs, a Site of Special Scientific Interest, and enjoy views from Tinhead Hill. Other highlights include Cley Hill and Cotley Hill, offering panoramic vistas.

Edington's trails are rich in history. You can visit ancient sites like Bratton Camp and Long Barrow, which are integrated into several hiking routes. The village itself is home to the significant Edington Priory Church, founded in 1351, and the intriguing Monk's Well (Ladywell Spring), a 14th-century structure. The Westbury White Horse and Bratton Camp is a key historical highlight.

Yes, parking is generally available in and around Edington, particularly near popular trailheads or village centers. Specific parking areas can vary depending on your chosen starting point, especially for routes that begin in nearby Bratton. It's always a good idea to check local signage for any restrictions or fees.

Public transport access to Edington for hiking can be limited. While local bus services might connect Edington to larger towns, direct access to specific trailheads might require a short walk or taxi ride. For more flexibility, driving to the area is often recommended. Always check current bus schedules if planning to rely on public transport.

The best time to hike in Edington is typically during the spring, summer, and early autumn months (April to October). During these periods, the weather is generally milder, and the trails are less likely to be muddy. Spring brings wildflowers, while autumn offers beautiful foliage. Winter hiking is possible but can be cold and wet, with potentially slippery conditions on some paths.

Edington and its surrounding villages offer a few options for refreshments. While not every trail will have a pub or cafe directly on route, you can often find establishments in the villages themselves. For example, the Sandy Lane Climb – Edington Farm Shop & Café loop from Edington specifically includes a farm shop and cafe, providing a convenient stop for hikers.