The best walks and hikes around Devizes

Yes, many trails are designed as loops. For a moderately challenging option that explores the famous canal, consider the Devizes Wharf – Caen Hill Locks loop from Devizes. This route provides a comprehensive tour of the canal's engineering marvels and the surrounding countryside, returning you to your starting point.

The towpath along the Kennet & Avon Canal is ideal for families as it's mostly flat and accessible. A great option is the Caen Hill Locks loop from Devizes — North Wessex Downs, a short and easy walk perfect for all ages to see the impressive lock flight.

Devizes is very dog-friendly. Many walkers enjoy taking their dogs to local spots like Drews Pond Wood Nature Reserve and Leipzig Plantation. As you'll be hiking in the North Wessex Downs, which includes farmland, always be prepared to put your dog on a lead, especially near livestock.

Absolutely. The region is rich in history. For a walk that combines panoramic views with Civil War history, the Devizes & Oliver’s Castle loop takes you to the Iron Age hillfort on Roundway Down. The area is also a gateway to Neolithic sites like Avebury and the West Kennet Long Barrow, which can be incorporated into longer hikes.

For a peaceful woodland experience, Drews Pond Wood Local Nature Reserve is a popular choice right in Devizes, offering a network of paths through a mix of trees. For something a little more off the beaten path, Belvedere Woods is considered a hidden gem by locals, especially beautiful when the wild garlic is in bloom.

For some of the most expansive views over Wiltshire, head to the trails on Roundway Down or Morgan's Hill. A hike to the summit of Roundway Down, sometimes called Oliver's Castle, rewards you with panoramic vistas. Morgan's Hill, a Site of Special Scientific Interest, also offers stunning scenery and is known for its rich variety of wildflowers and butterflies.

The terrain is quite varied, offering something for everyone. There are 28 easy routes, many following the flat canal towpaths, and 25 moderate trails that often involve ascents into the rolling chalk downlands. For those seeking a serious challenge, there are also 2 difficult hikes available.

The trails here are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 stars. Hikers frequently praise the unique combination of natural beauty and historical landmarks, from the impressive Caen Hill Locks on the canal to the ancient earthworks on the downs.

For walks starting near the canal, the Canal & River Trust operates a pay-and-display car park at Devizes Wharf. For hikes heading towards Roundway Down, there is free parking available in designated areas near the hill, though spaces can be limited during peak times.

Yes, the area is crossed by several significant long-distance paths. A section of the Wansdyke, an early medieval earthwork, runs along Morgan's Hill. The region also provides access to parts of the Ridgeway National Trail and the White Horse Trail, offering opportunities for more extensive multi-day treks.

The Devizes White Horse loop offers classic Wiltshire countryside scenery. The trail leads you through open fields and rolling downland, with the main highlight being the ascent to the chalk horse figure itself, which provides excellent views across the landscape.