Grovely Wood Forest Trail
Grovely Wood Forest Trail
Highlight • Forest
Grovely Wood Forest Trail
Hiking
4.9
(33)
Mountain biking
5.0
(2)
Gravel riding
5.0
(1)
Cycling
5.0
(1)
This Highlight is in a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Cranborne Chase & West Wiltshire Downs National Landscape
Tips
September 6, 2023
Hiking
March 10, 2020
Hiking
In the know? Log-in to add a tip for other adventurers!
Sign up for free
Nearby routes
Best routes near Grovely Wood Forest Trail
4.8
(9)
37
hikers
6.70km
01:51
110m
110m
Embark on an easy hiking adventure along the Monarch's Way and Grovely Wood Loop, a route that winds through varied landscapes. You will cover 4.2 miles (6.7 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 356 feet (109 metres), making it a pleasant journey for most. Expect to spend around 1 hour and 50 minutes exploring the tranquil woodland paths and open downland views. The trail offers a refreshing escape into nature, allowing you to immerse yourself in the peaceful atmosphere of Wiltshire's countryside.
Planning your visit to the Monarch's Way and Grovely Wood Loop is straightforward. The paths are generally well-maintained, consisting of woodland tracks and bridleways, though you might encounter some flinty soil and exposed tree roots in places. Parking is typically available near the trailheads, ensuring easy access for those arriving by car. This route is suitable for a relaxed outing, and its easy difficulty makes it a great choice for a casual hike any time of year.
This loop offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue. As you hike, you will follow sections of the historic Monarch's Way, a long-distance footpath tracing King Charles II's escape route. Keep an eye out for ancient Roman roads and Iron Age earthworks that hint at the area's long past. The trail also takes you through Grovely Wood, one of Wiltshire's largest mixed woodlands, providing a sense of discovery as you connect with centuries of history and nature.
5.0
(3)
14
hikers
13.5km
03:48
280m
280m
Embark on a moderate hike through the varied landscapes of the Heath Hill, Hadden Hill & Grovely Wood loop. This 8.4-mile (13.5 km) route takes you across rolling chalk downlands and into ancient woodlands, offering 924 feet (282 metres) of elevation gain over approximately 3 hours and 47 minutes. You will find yourself immersed in the expansive Grovely Wood, one of Wiltshire's largest mixed woodlands, known for its serene atmosphere. Later, enjoy wide-open views from viewpoints like Hadden Hill, providing a pleasant break from the forest paths. The trail combines diverse terrain, from shaded woodland trails to open-field sections.
This moderate hike requires a good level of fitness, so be prepared for a solid outing. While many paths are accessible, some sections demand sure-footedness. Good hiking shoes are highly recommended, especially if you are visiting between autumn and spring, as parts of the trail can become muddy. Plan your visit to allow ample time to complete the full loop comfortably before dusk.
This route is nestled within the beautiful Cranborne Chase and West Wiltshire Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. A significant portion of your journey winds through Grovely Wood, which is recognized for its nature conservation importance. Keep an eye out for the Purple Emperor butterfly, which calls this woodland home. The trail offers a unique opportunity to experience both ancient forest and open chalk downland in one continuous loop.
5.0
(1)
10
hikers
19.7km
05:19
260m
260m
Embark on the Grovely Wood loop for a challenging hike through ancient woodlands and open downland in the Cranborne Chase & West Wiltshire Downs. This difficult 12.2-mile (19.7 km) route involves 846 feet (258 metres) of elevation gain and typically takes around 5 hours and 18 minutes to complete. You will traverse varied terrain, from tranquil forest paths with oak, ash, and beech trees to expansive chalk downland offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, including glimpses of Stonehenge. Expect moderately steep sections as you climb wooded hillsides, and look for chalk grassland bursting with wildflowers on open spaces like Little Langford Down.
Given the trail's difficult rating and varied terrain, good fitness is required for this hike. Sturdy hiking boots are advisable, especially after rain, as paths in Grovely Wood can become muddy. Consider planning your visit for spring, when the woods are particularly beautiful and chalk grasslands are awash with wildflowers.
Grovely Wood is rich in history, with evidence of Iron Age settlements, ancient earthworks, and a Roman road running through it. You will also walk a section of the historic Monarch's Way, tracing King Charles II's escape route. Keep an eye out for the
Details
Informations
Elevation 180 m
Weather
Powered by Foreca
Friday 12 June
19°C
11°C
0 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 19.0 km/h
Most visited during
January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December