Perhaps most famous for Stonehenge and a stable of white horses carved into the chalk hillsides, Wiltshire is a county steeped in fascination and history. The origins of many of these landmarks are shrouded in mystery, but they now all make for fantastic focal points for walks in the region.
Sadly due to sheep worrying, dogs are no longer permitted on the National Trust Stonehenge Landscape. However, they are welcome to visit the other ancient stone circles in the county, including the pair in Avebury, which you’ll discover on one of the below list of dog walks in Wiltshire.
Venturing out on dog walks in Wiltshire are not only a delightful day out for you and your pup but an excellent opportunity for you both to explore the picturesque countryside and the many hidden gems and historical landmarks that are tucked away in the county.
We’ve rounded up 15 of the best dog walks in Wiltshire, which all give you and your pup the perfect opportunity to enjoy the gorgeous countryside and stretch your legs.
Countryside & country park walks
Berwick Bassett to Avebury
This walk is the perfect opportunity for a dog walk in Wiltshire’s side of the North Wessex Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. This area is also home to most of the Wiltshire White Horses, which make for several wonderful walk opportunities themselves.
This route passes by Windmill Hill, an important world heritage site. Once you reach Avebury, you can explore the stone circle, provided your pup is on a lead. You can then choose to get a short bus ride or walk back to Berwick Bassett.
As you visit two towns on this walk, you can paw-se in either for some refreshments. The Red Lion in Avebury is not only a charming thatched country pub but dog-friendly too.
Walk Length: 9.7km
Difficulty: Moderate
Starting Point: Avebury
Terrain: Fields, trails, undulating
Free Parking: Yes
Address: Berwick Bassett, Marlborough, Wiltshire, SN4 9NQ
More information: National Trust
Broad Chalke and Fifield Downs
This circular walk is the perfect chance for you and your pooch to take a walk through exceptionally beautiful surroundings as you stroll through Cranborne Chase AONB.
The final stretch of the walk takes you by the clear waters of a chalk stream, so perhaps pack a towel as your pup may decide it’s time for a paddle. You will have to cross some cattle fields, but this can be easily avoided by walking a short stretch along the village road.
After your walk, you can paw-se for a rest in Broad Chalke village and find refreshments at the Queen’s Head. The village too is charming, with plenty of cottages to complement the surrounding countryside you’ve explored.
Walk Length: 11km
Difficulty: Moderate
Starting Point: Broad Chalke
Terrain: Surfaced paths, trails, uneven, fields, slopes
Free Parking: Yes
Address: High Road, Broad Chalke, Salisbury, SP5 5EP
More information: All Trails
Castle Combe
We think you’d be hard-pressed to find a village more picturesque than Castle Combe. If the charming Cotswold stone cottages weren’t enough to please you, the village is also nestled within a patch of the Cotswold’s AONB that lies in Wiltshire.
Walking through the streets here accompanied by your faithful canine companion will make you feel like you’ve fallen into a fairytale. There’s little traffic in the village, and some days you might even find horses “parked” up. We are willing to bet Castle Combe will be perhaps the prettiest place you’ll ever visit.
After you’ve explored the village, you can take a circular walk through the fields and local plantations with your pooch. Otherwise, you can take a shorter, but no less beautiful, walk to Ford. You’ll find a free car park as you turn towards the village. The Castle Inn sits overlooking the packhorse bridge and river and is pet-friendly.
Walk Length: 8.8km
Difficulty: Moderate
Starting Point: Castle Combe car park
Terrain: Surfaced paths (village), woodland, fields, trails, slopes
Free Parking: Yes
Address: Car Park, Upper Castle Combe, Chippenham, SN14 7HH
More information: CountryFile
Southwick country park
A firm favourite for families and dog walkers, Southwick Country Park offers beautiful scenery and wide-open spaces for you and your pooch to enjoy.
Not only are there fields to run through carefree, but there is also a river and pond which always goes down a treat for excited pups looking for extra adventure. (So maybe pack a towel!) This is an easygoing walk in lovely surroundings, with a variety of paths to take.
There are facilities on-site, including a tea room by the nature centre. If you fancy a heartier meal you’re a short drive or moderate walk from Trowbridge. Leykers is a delightful cafe that you and your pooch can enjoy together and your pup will probably be given a few free treats from the counter. The Old Ham Tree is a traditional pub in the town, and also dog-friendly.
Walk Length: As long or short as you like
Difficulty: Easy
Starting Point: Main entrance
Terrain: Trails, flat, even, fields, woodland
Free Parking: Yes
Address: 201 Frome Road, Southwick, Trowbridge, BA14 9AF
More information: Woodland Trust
Stourhead
Stourhead’s gardens make for an amazing afternoon exploring with your pooch. As well as pretty planting, there are grottos and temples dotted around the central lake - which is a wonderful waterside walk - making it an intriguing place to visit. Your pooch must be on a lead in the gardens, but after you’ve enjoyed admiring them, you can head out on one of the waymarked walks in the surrounding countryside where your pup can have a chance to run off-lead.
There are several walks you could take, each with a different focal point. Perhaps you’ll visit King Alfred’s Tower or Turner paddock waterwheel. You may even have a simple stroll through the meadows and woodland that surround the house, with the Palladian villa as a regal backdrop to your ramble. Volunteers also run guided dog walks on the site for free once a month, perfect for your pooch to enjoy a long walk and make some new friends.
You can use the onsite facilities including a cafe for a light bite. There is also a pub and farm shop nearby, which are not NT managed. Dogs are welcome to the garden all day every day, except for 7 March to 8 November when dogs are only allowed every day after 2pm.
Walk Length: Various - Up to 9.6km
Difficulty: Easy
Starting Point: Main entrance
Terrain: Flat, even, paths, trails, meadows
Free Parking: No (Free for National Trust members)
Address: near Mere, Wiltshire, BA12 6QD
More information: National Trust
East Knoyle
This Wiltshire dog walk will let you explore an area of the Wiltshire Downs AONB, as well as sample sections of the Wessex Ridgeway and Monarch’s Way long-distance footpaths.
After starting in West Knoyle, your journey will take you and your pup through several sleepy hamlets as well as the quiet, rolling countryside, where there will be plenty of opportunities for you dog to get off the lead and frolic through the fields.
Partway through your walk you’ll pass the remains of the historic windmill, which has stood since the 17th century. Although the sails are long gone, the building remains and you can walk up and take a closer look. You’ll also have glorious views over neighbouring Dorset from your vantage point atop the ridge.
Be sure to stop by the Fox and Hounds in East Knoyle, where you and your pooch will be welcome and can paw-se to rest and refuel yourself after your long walk.
Walk Length: 15.6km
Difficulty: Moderate/Challenging
Starting Point: Car park (by the playground)
Terrain: Trails, fields, even, slopes
Free Parking: Yes
Address: The Street, West Knoyle, Warminster, BA12 6AG
More information: Walking Britain
Secure dog walks
Finding somewhere you can walk your dog in safety can be tricky, especially if they are reactive to other dogs or have poor recall. Luckily, there are several secure dog walks in Wiltshire for you and your pooch to enjoy.
There are a number of secure, dog-dedicated areas you can hire exclusively and provide your pooch with the opportunity to adventure off their lead in safety and without distraction. These areas are also perfect for training sessions, as you won’t be disturbed by people, dogs, or wildlife.
Wagtails, near Swindon, is one such example of a secure dog walking area. Remember not to use your own poo bags here, and instead use the bags provided, as all dog waste is composted. (Very eco!)
There is also a dedicated dog field in Foxham, one near Devizes, and the gorgeous Widgett’s Farm fields. The most exciting is Blue Rose, also near Swindon, which allows for exclusive walks, group walks, and the field also includes agility equipment and a pond especially for doggy paddles. You can even get tea and coffee while you visit.
Walk Length: As long as you like in the time
Difficulty: Easy
Starting Point: Main entrances
Terrain: Flat, even, meadows
Free Parking: Yes (But a small fee for field hire)
Address: Check individually
Woodland walks
Ludgershall castle
Dogs on leads are welcome to explore the ruins of Ludgershall Castle with you. Once used as a hunting lodge by kings, man and hound have been wandering the area together for centuries. Nowadays, it’s home to a quiet stroll with your pooch in magnificent surroundings.
After you’ve explored the castle, take a trip into Collingbourne Wood. The forest here is large but remains off the beaten track for many and there’s every chance you’ll have the whole forest to yourself. Perfect for a quiet off-lead stroll through the trees.
For facilities, you’ll need to head into Ludgershall itself. While there, you can visit the historic cross before stopping off at one of the several dog-friendly pubs. Such as The Queen’s Head or The White Horse Inn.
Walk Length: 9.7km
Difficulty: Easy
Starting Point: Ludgershall Castle
Terrain: Flat, trails, meadows, woodland
Free Parking: Yes
Address: Castle Street, Ludgershall, Wiltshire, SP11 9QT
More information: Visit Wiltshire, English Heritage
Heaven’s Gate
This enchanting woodland walk is a delight on its own, but the real draw of this dog walking spot in Wiltshire are the glorious views over the Longleat estate. On your stroll towards Heaven’s Gate, your pup can enjoy exploring the forest floor and sniffing around for wildlife, while you seek out and admire the stone sculptures.
Your reward for this walk is coming out atop Prospect Hill, where you’ll have panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and out across the border to Somerset.
If you and your pooch aren’t worn out you can extend your walk to climb the nearby Cley Hill or visit Shearwater Lake. After your countryside escapades, you can visit The Somerset Arms in Warminster to wet your whistle, and you and your pooch will be welcome inside. The Bath Arms is close to Longleat and is recognised as one of the best dog-friendly pubs in Wiltshire.
Walk Length: 1.5km
Difficulty: Easy/Moderate
Starting Point: Heaven’s Gate car park
Terrain: Woodland, slopes
Free Parking: Yes
Address: Heaven’s Gate, Warminster, BA12 7LG
More information: GPS Routes, Walkiees
Vincients wood
This small woodland is nestled against Chippenham, making it a lovely local walk for anyone passing through. Despite it’s smaller size, the woodland is established and dense, meaning you soon forget you’re close to civilisation and feel surrounded by nature. Your pooch will love foraging in the thick undergrowth or sniffing out the birds and squirrels.
Part of this reserve is ancient woodland, meaning this pocket-sized forest has stood for generations. There’s even a medieval woodbank which once kept livestock out of the woods. A coppicing programme has created glades perfect for wildflowers, and make a pleasant surprise as they appear amidst the trees. They’re perfect to stop by and snap a quick pic of your pooch.
Being so close to Chippenham means you can visit on the train. You can also take advantage of the several pet-friendly facilities in the town. From the Allington Cafe for a warm drink and light bite to the Rivo Lounge and Three Crowns for something a little stronger. The Three Crowns will give you a water bowl, treats, and a blanket for your pup to nestle on.
Walk Length: 1.6km
Difficulty: Easy
Starting Point: Main entrance
Terrain: Woodland, flat, uneven
Free Parking: No
Address: Vincients Wood, Chippenham, SN14 0TN
More information: Hidden Wiltshire, Walkiees
Savernake forest
Savernake Forest is a glorious expanse of historical forest, a site of special scientific interest, and home to a diverse array of habitats. There are numerous walks through the woods you and your pup can enjoy and you can partake in some forest bathing while your furry friend runs around amid the trees.
For a focal point to your walk, why not try to find Big Belly Oak. This unique tree is over a thousand years old, having stood since the times of William the Conqueror. There are many other centuries-old trees to be found on a walk around this wood. It’s baffling to think about the fact those trees have stood since the days kings raced by on horseback with their hounds, hunting stags.
There’s also a beautiful avenue of trees created by famous landscaper, Capability Brown. You’re sure to feel like royalty as you stride down the tree-lined lane with your faithful furry friend. It’s no wonder that this forest is one of the most popular dog walks in Wiltshire.
There are not many facilities here, save a picnic site, so remember to bring lunch. Otherwise, it’s a short drive to Marlborough where you can find a dog-friendly pub.
Walk Length: Various
Difficulty: Easy
Starting Point: Car park
Terrain: Woodland, flat, trails, even
Free Parking: Yes
Address: Savernake Forest, Marlborough, SN8 4ND
More information: CountryFile, Forestry England
Waterside walks
Caen hill
Caen Hill is one of the longest flights of locks in the country and at the steepest section of 16 locks really is a sight to behold.
It’s also a great focal point for a wonderful waterside dog walk in Wiltshire where you can take in the tranquil surroundings as you stroll alongside the Kennett and Avon Canal. Not only can you visit the locks, but this walk will also give you the opportunity to see the youngest of Wiltshire’s White Horses.
Above the flight of locks, you’ll find a tiny cafe in the former lock-keeper’s cottage. Your walk will then take you through Devizes, where you can take a pit-stop with your pooch and plenty of spots to refresh yourselves before continuing your journey back to where you began.
Walk Length: 12.2km
Difficulty: Moderate
Starting Point: Caen Hill car park
Terrain: Towpath, flat, surfaced paths (village), trails, slopes
Free Parking: No
Address: Rowde, Devizes, SN10 1QS
More information: Canal River Trust, CountryFile, Ordnance Survey
Bradford on Avon to Freshford
This wonderful dog walk in the Wiltshire countryside includes a stroll alongside the canal and aqueduct. Your pooch might be tempted to go for a swim, but best not, as canal sides are difficult for a dog to climb out of. But fear not, as you will also stroll alongside the River Avon, where your dog could take a paddle in if the water is lazy.
After the tranquil waterside stretch, you’ll be walking through fields and woodland to Freshford. Once there, you can stop by The Inn, a handsome honey-stone inn where you and your pup will both be welcome.
You’ll also pass the Cross Gun pub on your walk, which sits by the Avon with views over the river and aqueduct. As this walk begins and ends at the train station, it’s a great excursion for those who don’t drive.
Walk Length: 10.4km
Difficulty: Easy/Moderate
Starting Point: Bradford on Avon station
Terrain: Surfaced paths, trails, steps, fields, woods, uneven, flat
Free Parking: No
Address: Bradford-on-Avon, BA15 1DB
More information: Walkiees
Lacock - Riverside walk
Competing for the title of the prettiest village is Lacock. Like Castle Comb, this is a town that time has forgotten. Walking through the medieval streets and rows of honey-coloured houses is truly enchanting. Lacock village is often suggested as one of the best places to walk in Wiltshire, but this route also takes you alongside the river and gives you and your pup a taste of the local countryside.
In the village, be sure to stop by the old shop on the high street. The last owner styled the window in the fashion of an early 20th-century display and it has remained untouched since her departure in the 1980s. Again, adding to the timeless feel of this village. Alongside the fact, there is no cashpoint in the village…
After your walk, why not pause in the village for a tipple at one of the several pubs. The George Inn has existed for centuries, and is dog-friendly, as is The Red Lion.
Walk Length: 3.2km
Difficulty: Easy
Starting Point: Car park
Terrain: Surfaced paths, trails, fields, flat
Free Parking: Yes
Address: Hither Way, Lacock, Chippenham, SN15 2LG
More information: National Trust, Telegraph, Visit Lacock
Hill walks
Milk hill
This short walk is one of few hilly dog walks in Wiltshire and will not only give you the satisfaction of climbing the highest point in the county but also give you the chance to admire the Alton Barnes white horse.
Despite being the highest point in Wiltshire, the walk itself is easy-going and you’ll have good views of the surrounding downland and rolling countryside as far as the Mendip Hill. On a clear day, you might even see as far as the Black Mountains in Wales.
If you fancy further climbing and more spectacular views, you can extend your walk to trek up nearby Tan Hill, the second-highest peak in Wiltshire. Whether you decide to tackle one hill or two, you and your pup will feel reinvigorated after this walk in the gorgeous Pewsey Downs. For a chance to rest and refresh, stop by the delightful Barge Inn in nearby Pewsey.
Walk Length: 5km
Difficulty: Moderate
Starting Point: Pewsey Downs car park
Terrain: Hills, even, fields, trails
Free Parking: Yes
Address: Alton Priors, Wiltshire, England, SN8 4JX
More information: Walking Britain, GPS Routes
More dog walks: Hertfordshire, Suffolk, Kent