Walking in Wiltshire
Strolling through Wiltshire’s Countryside really shows you rural England at its best. Wiltshire is famous for prehistoric sites and white horses cut into the turf of chalk hillsides and it is also a haven for wildlife. Much of the county is designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and is particularly suited to getting about on foot. Explore rolling hills with spectacular views, peaceful wooded river valleys and picturesque villages. Wiltshire’s network of footpaths allows you to explore the county whatever your level of fitness or walking expertise.
Wiltshire boasts over 7,500 paths, all of which are open to walkers. Included are such famous National Trails as the Ridgeway, which runs past the World Heritage Site of Avebury and The Thames Path in the north of the county. Regional routes, such as the Macmillan Way, pass by some of the county’s most famous attractions, including Stourhead and the village of Castle Combe. Away from the high profile attractions, you can be sure that your peace will not be disturbed by crowds of other walkers. Wiltshire’s magnificent countryside remains a largely undiscovered secret.
Wiltshire is suited to walking at any time of the year. In spring, the traditional hay meadows in the north of the county are carpeted with wild flowers, including the rare snake’s head fritillary. In summer, the flowers on the chalk downlands of Marlborough and the south attract a whole variety of butterflies such as the chalkhill blue. The turning of the leaves at Stourhead in the Autumn cannot fail to impress and in the winter, open fireplaces, home-cooked food and local ales, available in country inns across the county, will welcome you to the end of your walk.
Walker’s needs are catered for by attractive country pubs, village shops and restaurants, which will help you to enjoy your stay. Wiltshire has a wide variety of accommodation from campsites to hotels. Accommodation guides area available from Tourist information Centres throughout the county.
Looking after yourself when walking in the country
- Wear strong, waterproof footwear and waterproof clothing.
- Avoid denims, which are cold and uncomfortable when wet.
- Always carry a map and a compass – and know how to use them!
- Carry a simple first-aid kit
- Listen to local weather forecasts before departing
- Always carry water and some high energy foods
- Remember sun cream in the summer!
Wiltshire walking guides and routes
Walking in Wiltshire £3.00
Pocket-size guide featuring 10 routes, many of which are family friendly. Your guide to discovering Wiltshire’s hidden gems as well as more familiar attractions like Westbury White Horse and Old Wardour Castle.
To obtain a copy call: 0845 602 7323 or visit the Visit Wiltshire website.
White Horse Trail Pack £6.00
Full details of the 90-mile circular route that takes in Wiltshire’s eight famous white horses carved into the chalk downland, and much more besides - Avebury, the Ridgeway, Devizes, Marlborough and the Kennet and Avon Canal.
To obtain a copy call: 0845 602 7323 or visit the Visit Wiltshire website.
Gourmet Walking in Wiltshire (free)
A selection of three walks offering tempting places to stop and taste the local specialities.
To obtain a copy call: 0845 602 7323 or visit the Visit Wiltshire website.
The Wiggley Walks
Three walks on the Kennet and Avon Canal towpath between Devizes and Pewsey, together with the Wigglybus.
For further information contact British Waterways on 01452 318000 or visit the British Waterways website.
Contact Details
Email: StrategicLandscape@wiltshire.gov.uk
Telephone: 01225 718478
Fax: 01225 713437
Postal Address:
Strategic Landscape Team
Economic Development Planning
and Housing
Wiltshire Council
County Hall
Trowbridge
Wiltshire
BA14
8JD
Last updated: 8 March 2010