The best walks and hikes in Wiltshire

Yes, many trails in Wiltshire are loops, making logistics simple. For a walk that combines history with scenic views, consider the Donhead St Andrew & Wardour Castle loop. This moderate 4.6-mile (7.4 km) route takes you through the countryside to the ruins of a 14th-century castle.

Wiltshire offers several highly-regarded hiking areas. The

North Wessex Downs National Landscape is a vast, popular area known for its tranquil, hilly countryside and scenic views. For a more focused hike with historical significance, many visitors enjoy Bratton White Horse & Bratton camp, which features an Iron Age hillfort and a famous chalk horse figure. Another local favorite is National Trust - Cley Hill, an Iron Age hillfort that offers panoramic views after a short, steep climb.

Absolutely. For a gentle walk that's suitable for the whole family, the Bradford-on-Avon & Avoncliff loop is an excellent choice. It's an easy 3.2-mile (5.2 km) route that follows the scenic Kennet & Avon Canal and offers a charming village experience.

Wiltshire is generally very dog-friendly, with many trails passing through open countryside and woodlands where dogs are welcome. Places like Clanger Wood are particularly popular with dog walkers. However, always be mindful of livestock in fields and keep your dog on a lead where required. Some areas, especially those with ground-nesting birds or around historical monuments, may have specific restrictions.

Wiltshire's landscape is rich with history. Many trails lead to or pass by ancient sites. You can explore Iron Age hillforts, prehistoric stone circles, and ancient burial mounds known as barrows. A great example is the Tollard Royal & Berwick Down loop, which takes you through a landscape dotted with archaeological remains in the Cranborne Chase.

Yes, several long-distance paths cross the county. The most famous is The Ridgeway, an ancient trackway often called Britain's oldest road. The White Horse Trail is another, connecting several of the iconic chalk figures carved into the hillsides. You can hike sections of these paths, such as the Dundas & Avoncliff loop from Bradford-on-Avon, an 8.2-mile (13.2 km) route that incorporates parts of the canal towpath and surrounding countryside.

Walking along the Kennet & Avon Canal offers a peaceful and relatively flat experience. The towpaths guide you through tranquil countryside, past historic locks and charming waterside pubs. The Wilton & the Kennet & Avon Canal loop is a 5.2-mile (8.4 km) walk that showcases this classic canal scenery, including a picturesque windmill.

There are over 2,400 hiking routes to explore in Wiltshire on komoot. They range from short, easy strolls to challenging all-day treks, covering the region's diverse landscapes of chalk downs, ancient forests, and river valleys.

The routes in Wiltshire are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Hikers often praise the region's palpable sense of history, the stunning panoramic views from the rolling downs, and the well-maintained paths through ancient woodlands and along canal towpaths.

Yes, you can find beautiful waterside walks in Wiltshire. For a scenic route around a man-made lake, try the Fonthill Lake loop from Hinden. This 7.6-mile (12.2 km) trail offers lovely views across the water and through the surrounding woodland in the Cranborne Chase & West Wiltshire Downs AONB.

Sturdy walking shoes or boots are recommended, as trails can be uneven and muddy, especially after rain. The weather on the open chalk downs can change quickly, so it's wise to wear layers and bring a waterproof jacket, even on a sunny day. In summer, a hat and sunscreen are essential for protection on exposed routes.

For a walk that combines countryside with a glimpse of a grand estate, the Ramsbury & Littlecote House loop is a great option. This 5.9-mile (9.5 km) hike takes you through the Kennet Valley and past the grounds of the historic Littlecote House, which has a rich history stretching back to the Roman era.