Weekend walks in Wiltshire

7. Lechlade and Buscot Weir

Just to the North of Wiltshire, the River Thames flows, near the start of its journey to London and the sea. The Thames Path follows the River Thames from its source, and a great place for a walk is at Lechlade towards St John’s Lock and over to Buscot Weir. This walk is perfect for a sunny summer’s day, where you can enjoy a sunny riverside walk.

8. Barbury Castle and The Ridgeway

Wiltshire definitely isn’t short of ancient history, and Barbury Castle is just another example of a famous prehistoric sight in this county. This Iron Age hill fort gives great views over the Marlborough downs. Once you’re finished exploring the steep hills of the castle you can head in the opposite direction to walk along The Ridgeway, which follows the route of Britain’s oldest road and was used in prehistoric times by travellers, traders and soldiers. The views from here are great as well.

9. Lacock village and Abbey

If you’re looking for another Pride and Prejudice fix, the beautiful village of Lacock will instantly transport you back to the early 1800s, where you can really believe Mr Darcy might appear at any moment. The old village looks like it’s hardly changed in centuries (apart from the cars) and it’s a beautiful village to walk around.

Lacock Abbey is also worth a visit as well. It’s an impressive country house which also used to be a nunnery. Lacock Abbey was also used in several Harry Potter films, as well as more recently in Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald. So if you’re into the Harry Potter films, this is definitely a must-visit place!

10. Savernake Forest

After immersing yourself in so much history in your weekend walks in Wiltshire, head to Savernake Forest for some fun! Located just outside Marlborough, this forest is a great place to explore for a relaxing weekend walk.

11. Pewsey Canal

Just south of Marlborough is the village of Pewsey and its adjacent canal. The canal is a lovely place for a walk, and the various house boats the line the water’s edge are great. You can also walk into the nearby hills for great views all across the downs.

12. Uffington White Horse and Dragon Hill

Although Uffington White Horse is just over the border into Oxfordshire, it’s such a beautiful place it has to be worth a mention. There’s more ancient history here – Uffington White Horse is the oldest white horse in Britain and dates back to the Bronze Age, over 3000 years ago. Nearby is Dragon Hill, where (legend says) Saint George slayed the dragon, and at the top is a bare patch of grass, which is said to be where the dragon’s blood was spilled and now no grass will grow. The views from here are stunning as well.

If you’re looking for some great walks in Wiltshire, I’d really recommend this guide to walks in Wiltshire (affiliate). There are some great walks that take in some of the best sights in the area.

Enjoy exploring these weekend walks in Wiltshire! If you’re looking for more walking options, why not check out these walks in Swindon, or explore the neighboring county of Oxfordshire.

Getting outside for a walk is one of the things that can help looking after your mental health – read my blog for some other tips.