Wiltshire is one of England's most rewarding counties for walking and is often highlighted among the best things to do in Wiltshire for visitors who enjoy the outdoors. Chalk downland, ancient trackways, river valleys, woodland and quiet villages combine to create routes that suit everything from short evening strolls to full-day and long-distance walks.
Many of these routes are within easy reach of Royal Wootton Bassett, making School House Hotel a practical and comfortable base for a walking break.
Why Wiltshire Is Ideal for Walking Holidays
Wiltshire's landscape is shaped by rolling chalk hills rather than steep terrain. Public footpaths are extensive, views are wide and many routes pass directly through historic landscapes rather than around them.
Walking in Wiltshire typically offers:
- Clearly marked public footpaths and byways
- Open countryside with long sightlines
- Routes that combine walking with historic landmarks
- Walks suitable for dogs and mixed abilities
- Easy access from towns and villages
Many of the county's best walks begin in villages or market towns, allowing walkers to step straight into the countryside without driving to remote trailheads.
Walking Routes in North Wiltshire
North Wiltshire is particularly popular for walking thanks to its mix of downland, canal paths, woodland and historic villages.
Avebury, Silbury Hill & West Kennet Long Barrow Circular Walk
- Start: Avebury village car park
- Distance: approx. 4 miles
- Terrain: grassy paths, chalk tracks, gentle slopes
This is one of the most iconic circular walks in Wiltshire. From Avebury Stone Circle, the route follows public footpaths towards Silbury Hill, continues to West Kennet Long Barrow, then loops back across open downland to Avebury.
The route is well signposted, rich in history and suitable for a relaxed half-day walk. Dogs are welcome on leads where livestock is present.
Marlborough Downs Circular Walk
- Start: Marlborough town centre
- Distance: 6–8 miles
- Terrain: chalk downland, open ridges, grassy tracks
This classic downland walk climbs gently from Marlborough onto the downs, following ancient trackways before looping back towards the town. Views extend across north Wiltshire, with open skies and wide horizons.
This is a strong option for walkers wanting longer routes without steep gradients.
Circular Walks in Wiltshire
Circular routes are ideal for visitors who want variety without retracing their steps.
Malmesbury Abbey & River Loop
- Start: Malmesbury town centre
- Distance: approx. 3 miles
- Terrain: riverside paths, town streets, fields
Starting near Malmesbury, this walk passes Malmesbury Abbey before descending towards the river and looping back into town. It combines medieval architecture with countryside walking and is suitable for most abilities.
Village Walks in Wiltshire
Wiltshire's villages are often connected by historic footpaths, making village-based walks particularly enjoyable.
Lacock to Reybridge Circular Walk
- Start: Lacock
- Distance: approx. 3 miles
- Terrain: riverside paths, farmland, village lanes
This gentle route follows the River Avon towards Reybridge before looping back across open farmland to Lacock. It combines historic village streets, riverside scenery and quiet countryside.
Castle Combe Valley Walk
- Start: Castle Combe
- Distance: approx. 2–3 miles
- Terrain: valley paths, woodland edges, lanes
This short but scenic walk follows the valley floor before looping back above the village. It offers classic Wiltshire scenery and is best walked early in the day to avoid crowds.
Dog Friendly Walks in Wiltshire
Wiltshire is well suited to dog walkers, with many routes across open countryside and woodland.
Savernake Forest Woodland Trails
Savernake Forest is the most significant area of woodland in Wiltshire and one of the best locations for dog walks in the county. This ancient forest lies near Marlborough and contains a wide network of permissive paths, bridleways and informal trails that allow walkers to choose their own route lengths.
Savernake Forest offers:
- Short woodland loops starting from roadside parking areas
- Longer forest crossings linking different parts of the woodland
- Shaded routes that are particularly popular in summer
- Seasonal interest, with bluebells in spring and strong autumn colour
Dog friendly walking (on leads where required)
Downland Paths & Open Countryside
Chalk downland routes across Wiltshire offer visibility and space, making them popular with dog walkers. Seasonal signage should always be followed where livestock is present.
River Walks in Wiltshire
Wiltshire's rivers and canals create some of the county's calmest and most accessible walking routes. These paths are typically flatter than downland walks, making them well suited to gentle strolls, dog walking, evening walks and mixed-ability groups.
River Avon Walks
The River Avon runs through several parts of Wiltshire, creating a network of peaceful riverside paths through meadows, town edges and open countryside. River Avon walks are generally level and clearly defined, making them suitable for relaxed walking rather than strenuous hikes.
Popular characteristics of River Avon walks include:
- Flat riverside terrain
- Wildlife spotting, particularly birds and fish
- Open meadow views and shaded sections
- Routes that work well as short loops or out-and-back walks
Kennet & Avon Canal Towpath
The Kennet & Avon Canal offers some of the easiest and most reliable walking routes in Wiltshire.
Sections of the canal near Swindon and Pewsey are particularly popular. Walkers often choose short stretches rather than long linear routes, walking for a set time before turning back.
Canal towpath walks are ideal for:
- Evening walks close to accommodation
- Dog friendly walks on leads
- Short country walks with minimal navigation
- Walking during wetter weather when field paths are muddy
Short Country Walks in Wiltshire
Not every walk needs to be long to be memorable.
Village Edge Walks Near Royal Wootton Bassett
From the edge of Royal Wootton Bassett, several footpaths lead directly into surrounding farmland. These short loops typically take 60–90 minutes and are ideal as evening walks before dinner.
Canal-Side Evening Walks
Short out-and-back walks along the Kennet & Avon Canal allow flexibility depending on daylight and energy levels, making them popular with visitors staying nearby.
Long Distance Walks in Wiltshire
Wiltshire also supports longer routes for experienced walkers.
The Ridgeway (Wiltshire Sections)
The Ridgeway is one of Britain's oldest trackways, following high ground used for travel and trade for thousands of years. In Wiltshire, the trail runs across open chalk downland, offering some of the county's most expansive views and most historically significant walking.
Typical features of Ridgeway walks in Wiltshire include:
- Long-distance views across chalk downland
- Wide, well-defined tracks underfoot
- A strong sense of openness and space
- Minimal road crossings on many sections
Walks in Wiltshire for History Lovers
Wiltshire's walking routes often pass directly through historic landscapes.
Avebury Prehistoric Landscape Walk
- Start point: Avebury village
- Distance: approx. 3–5 miles (depending on route)
- Terrain: chalk paths, open fields, gentle slopes
This is one of the most significant history walks in England. Starting at Avebury Stone Circle, the route follows public footpaths across open downland towards Silbury Hill and West Kennet Long Barrow.
Malmesbury Abbey & River History Walk
- Start point: Malmesbury town centre
- Distance: approx. 3 miles
- Terrain: town streets, riverside paths, fields
This walk begins in Malmesbury, one of England's oldest boroughs. The route passes Malmesbury Abbey before descending to the river and looping through surrounding countryside.
Best Time of Year for Walking in Wiltshire
Wiltshire is walkable year-round, but conditions vary.
- Spring: Fresh greenery, lambing fields and quieter paths
- Summer: Long days and dry downland walking
- Autumn: Woodland colour and cooler temperatures
- Winter: Crisp views, muddy trails and peaceful routes
Late spring and early autumn are often ideal for longer walks.
Staying in Wiltshire for Walking Breaks
Where you stay can make a significant difference to your walking experience. A central base reduces driving and allows you to explore different landscapes each day.
Royal Wootton Bassett offers easy access to:
- Avebury and the Marlborough Downs
- Savernake Forest
- Canal and river walks
- Village and countryside routes across north Wiltshire
Stay at School House Hotel for Your Wiltshire Walking Break
After a day on the footpaths, returning to a comfortable base matters. School House Hotel in Royal Wootton Bassett offers well-located accommodation for walkers, with easy access from the M4 and short drives to many of Wiltshire's best walking routes.
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