The best walks and hikes around Wilcot
4.6
(901)
5,466
hikers
17
hikes
Hikes around Wilcot explore the Vale of Pewsey and the North Wessex Downs National Landscape. The region is characterized by rolling chalk downlands, ancient woodlands, and flat paths along the Kennet and Avon Canal. The terrain offers a mix of gentle climbs up hills like Giant's Grave and easy walks through open fields and along waterways.
Best hiking trails around Wilcot
- The most popular hiking route is Wilton and Kennett & Avon Canal Trail loop — North Wessex Downs, a 2.2 mile (3.6 km) trail that takes around 55 minutes to complete. This easy route follows the tranquil canal towpath.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is Giant's Grave Hillfort – View of North Wessex Downs loop from Oare, an easy 4.0 mile (6.4 km) path. The trail includes a gentle ascent to the Giant's Grave hillfort.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the Knap Hill – Knap Hill Car Park loop from Manningford Bruce, a 6.5 mile (10.5 km) trail leading through the North Wessex Downs, often completed in about 2 hours 50 minutes.
- Hiking around Wilcot is defined by canal towpaths, rolling chalk downlands, and ancient woodlands. The network of paths provides circular walks from Wilcot suitable for various fitness levels.
- The routes in Wilcot are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 600 reviews. More than 4,500 hikers have used komoot to explore Wilcot's varied terrain.
Last updated: October 24, 2026
17
hikers
3.59km
00:55
10m
10m
Easy hike. Easily walkable paths.
5.0
(1)
9
hikers
5.70km
01:29
30m
30m
Easy hike. Easily walkable paths.
4.0
(1)
6
hikers
6.45km
01:52
150m
150m
Easy hike. Easily walkable paths.
5.0
(1)
4
hikers
16.6km
04:27
200m
200m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily walkable paths.
5.0
(1)
5
hikers
5.08km
01:30
140m
140m
Easy hike. Easily walkable paths.
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Tips from the Community
What a lovely point of view
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Lovely point of view on white horse
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It's an 87-mile (140 km) long waterway that links the River Avon at Bristol with the River Kennet at Newbury, which in turn connects to the River Thames at Reading. This effectively created an inland navigation route between Bristol and London, avoiding the potentially treacherous sea voyage around the tip of Cornwall. * While originally built for commercial purposes during the Industrial Revolution to transport goods and materials, it later declined with the advent of railways. Today, its primary purpose is for leisure activities such as boating, canoeing, fishing, walking, and cycling. It's also vital for wildlife conservation.
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One of many along the enchanting Kennet and Avon Canal
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It was wet, it was cold, it was windy, but it was fun and with amazing views to take in.
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Adam’s Grave on Walker's Hill in Alton, the most dramatically located Neolithic long barrow in Wiltshire and the site of battles in 592 and 715. The area surrounding Walker's Hill is pitted and speckled with barrows and ditches of many sizes and shapes.
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A wonderful sweep of chalk downland located to the north of the Pewsey Vale and in the North Wessex Downs National Landscape. The reserve covers three hills and includes Alton Barnes White Horse cut into the chalk hillside. There are great opportunities for wildlife and landscape photography with views stretching across the Vale of Pewsey to Salisbury Plain. Pewsey Downs National Nature Reserve is also part of a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), recognising the range of chalk grassland plants and the associated butterflies (28 species). While you are there, also look out for the Sarsen stones, known locally as ‘Grey Weathers’.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are there around Wilcot?
There are around 17 curated hiking routes to explore around Wilcot. These range from easy canal-side strolls to more challenging walks in the North Wessex Downs, offering something for every fitness level.
Are there any easy, family-friendly hikes in the area?
Yes, the region is great for families. The terrain along the Kennet and Avon Canal is particularly suitable as it's flat and scenic. For a specific route, consider the Kennet and Avon Canal – Pewsey loop from Oare, which is an easy 3.5-mile (5.7 km) walk perfect for all ages.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the trails around Wilcot?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the mix of landscapes, from the peaceful Kennet and Avon Canal towpaths to the sweeping views from the chalk downlands of the North Wessex Downs.
Are dogs allowed on the hiking trails?
Most trails in the countryside around Wilcot are dog-friendly, but it's essential to keep your dog under control, especially near farmland with livestock. The towpaths along the canal are popular for dog walking. Always check for local signage regarding leads.
Where can I find the best views while hiking near Wilcot?
For panoramic vistas, head into the North Wessex Downs. Trails that ascend the rolling chalk hills offer the best viewpoints. A local favorite for stunning scenery is Giant's Grave Hillfort – View of North Wessex Downs loop from Oare, which leads to the historic Giant's Grave hillfort.
What is the terrain like on the hikes around Wilcot?
The terrain is quite varied. You'll find flat, easy-going paths along the Kennet and Avon Canal towpath. Away from the canal, the landscape features the rolling chalk downlands of the North Wessex Downs, which involve some gentle but steady climbs.
Are there any long-distance trails that pass through the area?
Yes, the region is crossed by several significant paths. The 77-mile Pewsey Vale Circular Way runs through the area, showcasing the best of the local landscape. Additionally, parts of the Kennet and Avon Canal Path can be used for longer-distance treks.
What are the trail conditions like? Are the paths well-marked?
Most of the main footpaths and bridleways, including the canal towpath and routes in the North Wessex Downs, are well-maintained. However, some lesser-used paths can become muddy after rain. Using a GPS device or the komoot app for navigation is always recommended.
Where is a good place to park for a hike?
Parking availability varies by route. For walks starting near the downs, the Knap Hill Car Park is a common starting point for several trails, including the Knap Hill – Knap Hill Car Park loop from Manningford Bruce. For canal walks, there are often small parking areas near bridges or pubs along the waterway.
Are there any pub walks in the Wilcot area?
Many routes pass through or near traditional villages with pubs, making it easy to plan a walk with a pub stop. The Wilton and Kennett & Avon Canal Trail loop starts and ends near Wilton, which has options for refreshments after your walk.
What level of difficulty are the hikes?
The hikes are generally easy to moderate. There are 7 designated easy routes, perfect for leisurely walks, and 10 moderate routes that may include longer distances or more significant elevation gain. There are no technically difficult or expert-level trails in this immediate selection.
Can I see any historical sites on these walks?
Absolutely. The landscape is rich in history. You can find remnants of WWII defenses along the Kennet and Avon Canal, and many trails explore ancient sites. The hike to Knap Hill Car Park – Walkers Hill loop from Oare takes you through an area rich with prehistoric landmarks in the North Wessex Downs.
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