The best dog-friendly hikes and walks around Great Bedwyn

There are 11 dog-friendly hiking trails around Great Bedwyn, offering a variety of experiences for you and your canine companion. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

Yes, Great Bedwyn offers several easy dog-friendly walks. For a gentle stroll along the water, consider the Kennet and Avon Canal Towpath loop from Great Bedwyn, which is just over 5.5 km (3.4 miles) and mostly flat. Another easy option is the Kennet and Avon Canal Towpath – Kennet & Avon Canal loop from Great Bedwyn, a 6.6 km (4.1 miles) route with minimal elevation gain.

Absolutely! Many trails offer picturesque views of the North Wessex Downs. The View of the North Wessex Downs – Woods in North Wessex Downs loop from Wilton Windmill is an excellent choice, providing panoramic vistas and passing by the historic Wilton Windmill. This 6.5 km (4 miles) route is rated as easy.

Yes, most of the dog-friendly trails in the area are circular, allowing you to start and end in the same location. For example, the Kennet & Avon Canal – Crofton Pumping Station loop from Great Bedwyn is a moderate 8.4 km (5.2 miles) circular route that takes you through woodland and along the canal.

The trails around Great Bedwyn showcase the diverse landscape of the North Wessex Downs AONB. You and your dog can enjoy peaceful walks along the tranquil Kennet and Avon Canal, explore sections of the ancient Savernake Forest with its magnificent old oak trees, and traverse rolling chalk downland. The River Dun also winds through the area, adding to the natural charm.

Yes, the area is rich in history. Many routes incorporate sections of the Kennet and Avon Canal, where you can see historic locks and the fascinating Crofton Locks and Pumping Station. You might also encounter ancient Roman roads or the site of an Iron Age hill fort in Chisbury Wood. The Ailesbury Column is another notable historical site in the wider area.

Great Bedwyn is lovely for dog walks year-round. Spring brings wildflowers and new growth, while summer offers shaded walks in Savernake Forest. Autumn provides stunning foliage, and even winter can be beautiful with crisp air and fewer crowds. Always check weather conditions and trail surfaces, especially after rain, as some paths can become muddy.

While many routes are easy to moderate, you can combine sections or explore longer loops for a greater challenge. For instance, the Kennet & Avon Canal – Woods in North Wessex Downs loop from Bedwyn is a moderate 9.5 km (5.9 miles) route that offers a good workout with varied terrain through woodlands and along the canal.

Great Bedwyn offers various parking options, including village car parks and roadside parking where permitted. Many trailheads, especially those starting from the village or near popular attractions like Wilton Windmill, have designated parking areas. Always check local signage for any restrictions or fees.

Great Bedwyn and its surrounding villages are known for their welcoming atmosphere. Many local pubs are dog-friendly, often providing water bowls and a warm welcome for well-behaved dogs. It's always a good idea to check with the establishment beforehand, especially if you plan to dine inside.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 out of 5 stars. Reviewers often praise the peaceful canal towpaths, the beauty of Savernake Forest, the stunning views from the rolling hills, and the overall dog-friendly nature of the routes. The variety of terrain and historical points of interest are also frequently highlighted.