The best walks and hikes in Cranborne Chase & West Wiltshire Downs AONB

Yes, there is an extensive network of trails to explore. You can find over 600 routes in the region, ranging from easy strolls to challenging long-distance paths, covering the area's diverse landscapes of chalk downland, ancient woods, and river valleys.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Hikers often praise the stunning panoramic views from the chalk ridges, the tranquility of the ancient woodlands, and the rich sense of history found in the numerous archaeological sites scattered across the landscape.

The region is perfect for circular hikes. A great option that combines history and nature is the Donhead St Andrew & Wardour Castle loop. This moderate 4.6-mile (7.4 km) walk takes you past the romantic ruins of Old Wardour Castle and through peaceful fields and woodland.

Many trails in the Cranborne Chase & West Wiltshire Downs AONB are suitable for walking with a dog. Open downland areas like those around Win Green are popular choices. However, always be mindful of livestock and ground-nesting birds, especially between March and July, and keep your dog on a lead where required.

Yes, there are several walks suitable for the whole family. The Shear Water Lake & Longleat Forest loop is a wonderful choice. It's a relatively gentle path around a beautiful lake, offering plenty of interest for younger walkers without being too strenuous.

For some of the most breathtaking panoramic views, head to Win Green, the highest point in the AONB. On a clear day, you can see for miles. The Tollard Royal & Berwick Down loop from Win Green is a fantastic 5.5-mile (8.8 km) hike that makes the most of these expansive vistas across the open downland.

If you're looking for a longer challenge, the Cley Hill & Longleat Forest loop from Shear Water is an excellent option. This 7.3-mile (11.8 km) route involves a rewarding climb up Cley Hill, an Iron Age hillfort, offering superb views before looping back through the historic Longleat Forest.

The AONB is renowned for its ancient woodlands, remnants of the historic Cranborne Chase hunting forest. You can immerse yourself in these serene forests on many trails. For a walk that features a beautiful lake set against a woodland backdrop, consider the Fonthill Lake loop from Hinden, a 7.6-mile (12.2 km) route that combines waterside paths with trails through the surrounding woods.

Many popular trailheads have dedicated parking areas. For example, there is a car park at Win Green, which is a starting point for several walks. Other routes often start from villages where on-street parking may be available, but always check for local restrictions and park considerately.

While much of the AONB features uneven terrain, some locations offer more accessible options. Areas like Shearwater Lake and parts of the Stourhead estate have flatter, well-surfaced paths suitable for pushchairs and some wheelchairs. It's always best to check with the specific location, like the National Trust for Stourhead, for the most up-to-date accessibility information.

Hikers are drawn to several key locations within the AONB. Some of the most popular spots include:

• Win Green: A must-visit for its incredible panoramic views from the highest point in the area. It's a well-regarded starting point for downland walks.
• Martin Down National Nature Reserve: Praised for its wide-open spaces and rich biodiversity, this reserve offers gentle, undulating paths through ancient grassland.
• North Wessex Downs National Landscape: This vast, tranquil area of hilly countryside is a favorite for walkers seeking sweeping, scenic views and a sense of remoteness.