Wiltshire is a beautiful county perfect for exploring with the family, and one of the best ways to do this is by taking a leisurely walk along the Kennet and Avon Canal. Wiltshire’s picturesque canal network offers a haven for walkers seeking tranquillity and natural beauty. From the historic Kennet & Avon Canal to the quieter reaches of the county, there’s a canal side path to suit every pace and preference.
Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll, a challenging hike, or a family-friendly adventure, this guide will help you explore the best Wiltshire has to offer. So lace up your walking boots and let’s embark on a canal side journey.
Wilcot Canal Walk
The Wilcot Circular Walk is ideal for small children. This short circular route starts at the Golden Swan pub in the quintessentially English village of Wilcot. You’ll explore the village before looping through the countryside to join the Kennet and Avon Canal at Ladies Bridge. Enjoy the peaceful canal atmosphere as you follow the towpath back to Wilcot. The route is level, suitable for wheelchairs and buggies, although it can be muddy in places.
Roundway & Devizes
For a walk with varied scenery, try the Devizes to Roundway Hill canal Walk. Admire views over Devizes town as you walk to Roundway Hill, then return to Devizes and follow the Kennet & Avon Canal towpath back to the Market Place. You might spot the Devizes White Horse, which overlooks the town from a nearby hillside. Be aware of some steep uphill sections.
Pewsey & Wootton
If you prefer a longer walk, the Pewsey and Wootton Rivers Walk is a good option. About a quarter of this eight-mile walk follows the canal, with the rest through fields and pretty villages. Start at the Bruce Arms pub and head towards Wootton Rivers before joining the Kennet and Avon Canal. After a few miles, you’ll pass through Pewsey village before returning to the Bruce Arms via Milton Lilbourne. This walk is perfect for exploring the picturesque villages of the Vale of Pewsey.
Bradford-on-Avon & Avoncliff
Another family-friendly option is the Bradford on Avon to Avoncliff Walk. Starting and ending in the charming market town of Bradford on Avon, simply follow the towpath to the nearby village of Avoncliff. Admire the historic aqueduct carrying the canal over the River Avon before returning to Bradford on Avon. The walk is mostly level but can be muddy.
Great Bedwyn & Wilton
For a walk with plenty to see, try the Great Bedwyn and Wilton Windmill Circular. Follow the Kennet & Avon Canal from Great Bedwyn past locks to Crofton Beam Engines, then climb the hill to admire views from Wilton Windmill. Continue through the countryside back to Great Bedwyn. This walk combines canal towpaths, quiet lanes, and woodland tracks.
