10 easy walks in Swindon and Wiltshire

Wiltshire has many lovely places to wander and lose yourself in nature. 

Here are 10 particularly picturesque options. Have you tried them all?

1. Drews Pond Wood 

Drews Pond Wood Local Nature Reserveis a hidden gem for many in Wiltshire. A network of pathways runs through the reserve, with vast woodland and wildlife to be spotted.

There is a lot of history on the site - and the Drews Pond Project group are fighting to preserve it - with information boards scattered across the reserve with further information.

Drews Pond

Habitats to see include meadows, coppice and woodland. 29 Ancient Woodland indicator species can be found, such as wood sorrel, Solomon's seal, and field roses. There are also plenty of birds and mammals for the kids to look out for, including bats, buzzards and badgers. You may also see a long eared owl.

A succession of flowers can be found throughout the year, such as snowdrops and bluebells in the spring and marsh buttercups and anemones later in the year.

2. Cherhill Down

A walk to the top of Cherhill Down will reward visitors with wonderful views for miles around.

Once there, people can explore Oldbury Castle hill fort which, during the summer, is covered in wildflowers.

In the spring and summer the Downs are alive with the sounds of skylarks and meadow pipits.

You can start at the A4 lay-by, edge of Cherhill, then follow the path up to the Lansdowne Monument.

Cherhill Down is home to rare plants and insects, such as burnt-tip orchid, bastard toadflax, Adonis blue butterfly and juniper shield bug.

3. Stanton Park, Stanton Fitzwarren

Nestled between the South Marston industrial estate and picturesque village Stanton Fitzwarren, Stanton Park boasts woodland paths, meadows and a fishpond.

A popular spot with dog walkers, it also contains a Scheduled Ancient Monument- the site of a Roman Villa.

It is the holder of a Green Flag award, which describes it as an 'inspiring and largely unspoiled example of a country park'. 

4. Malmesbury loop

The town of Malmesbury is circled by the River Avon.

From the Malmesbury Information Centre, or via the Explore Malmesbury App, you can follow a series of historical trails in the town centre, such as past the Abbey House Gardens and St Aldhem’s Mead.

For a peaceful river walk, you can start at the top of High Street in a walk that takes no more than three hours.

5. Silbury Hill

Silbury Hill, more information at english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/silbury-hill,  is one of the most mysterious ancient features in the country as well as being one of the most stunning.

A nearby car park off the A4 makes exploring the area easy.

Although the ancient earth mound itself is not open to the public, much of the surrounding countryside is ideal for rambling, and the relative gentleness of the terrain means it is suitable for all who enjoy walking.

6. The Ridgeway

The Ridgeway runs for 87 miles between Wiltshire and Buckinghamshire, and is readily accessible from Barbury Castle near Wroughton. To walk along it is to follow in the footsteps of ancient traders for whom what we now call The Ridgeway was part of a major route through the heart of England from the ports of the South Coast.

Archaeologists say the path dates back some five millennia.

Barbury Castle itself, outside Wroughton, has been a favourite destination for walkers for many years. 

7. Coate Water Country Park, Coate

The bustling lake is a popular spot for dog walkers, with a mix of tarmacked paths, woodland and fields to scamper around.

The park has a 4.5/5 rating on Tripadvisor, with one reviewer writing: “We had the most wonderful walk around the lakes with our two dogs and met some very friendly people.

8. Shearwater Lake

Within the Longleat estate you’ll find Shearwater Lake. Enjoy short walks on the lakeside or extended walks taking in the wider estate. For spectacular views, head on the route to Heaven’s Gate.

Shearwater Lake

9. Corsham

Many of the Public Rights of Way in Corsham are ancient, with some even dating back to Roman times, and are well-defined and walked regularly. The topography of the area allows for a variety of walks for all ages and abilities.

Walkers can choose from many places of interest nearby, all of which are accessible on foot from Corsham. For example, it is possible to walk to Brunel’s famous Box Tunnel; the National Trust village of Lacock, and other National Trust properties; as well as Corsham Court and its parkland. The Visit Corsham website contains a wealth of resources on where to go

10. Roundway Down

Roundway Down was the scene of a battle during the English Civil War and is located near to Devizes.

Forming part of the North Wessex Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty you will enjoy sweeping views across the Wiltshire countryside here.

 Roundway Down

To extend your walk you can continue along the Wessex Ridgeway towards Morgan's Hill where you can pick up the Wansdyke Path.