There’s no time like the present to get back in touch with nature. If 2020 taught us anything, it’s that the availability of gym’s and sports clubs isn’t always going to be predictable. But, thankfully what you can rely on is a trusty pair of hiking boots and the gorgeous trails that Wiltshire has to offer. Of course, it wouldn’t be right for me to recommend walking routes without having tried them out myself, so after some exploring, coffee drinking from a flask and plenty of falling over in the mud, here are my top picks.
5. Barbury Castle to Liddington Castle
Okay, so I have to admit, this one may be better saved for the sunnier months. In fact, I lost count of how many times I nearly decked it. I guess a bit of danger adds to the adventure, right? Barbury Castle is known for its hilly pathways and great views across the county and as you make your way downhill, through the fields to Liddington, it’s easy to forget about having to climb back up them again. This one is definitely a great leg workout and the sense of achievement afterwards is incredible.
4. Silbury Hill and surrounding landscape
‘Can I climb it?’ My 4’9” friend who likes the idea of feeling a little bit taller asked, as we approached Sibury Hill. The answer is unfortunately a no. It seems inviting but is protected by fencing and looks to be quite dangerous. As the largest artificial mound in Europe, the English Heritage owned hill has a mass and size which compares to contemporary pyramids. But even if you can’t get too close, it’s definitely worth a visit when the world re-opens. Not to mention the amazing surrounding landscapes, it certainly has the wow factor. Sitting high up on a frosty December morning, watching fog roll off the hills is quite a breathtaking experience.
3. Lydiard Park circular route
An obvious choice when you picture walking in Wiltshire, would be Lydiard Park, but what many people fail to realise is behind the Treetop Adventure course and café, a long pathway and route to Lydiard Millicent Village awaits. Now I must admit, I discovered this running, not walking, but it’s amazing no matter your pace. Although it can get a little busy on the weekends, during the week its almost guaranteed you’ll have the place to yourself. Lydiard Park has the most adorable coffee hut ‘The Stables’ too, serving hot soups, drinks and takeaway goodies to fuel your walk and keep you nice and toasty.
2. Avebury stones and National Trust site
What better way to spend a Sunday morning than hugging gigantic stones. Or has lockdown made me lose the plot? The Avebury Henge and Stone Circle National Trust site is very well maintained, and as one of Britain’s greatest prehistoric landmarks, why wouldn’t you visit? What’s so fascinating about Avebury is that it’s considered a spiritual hub. Pre-pandemic, visitors would travel from far and wide to meditate at the stones. Now although I didn’t give it a go for myself, I’d imagine its quite relaxing after a 15 kilometre journey and with many more people becoming spiritually inclined thanks to its popularity on TikTok, I can imagine the stones will be seeing a lot more visitors this year!
1.Hackpen Hill, The Ridgeway
In my opinion the best on the list, The Ridgeway. For a route that lasts over 100 miles, it’s pretty easy to beat the rest, as it covers a lot of ground. My favourite spot has to be Hackpen Hill. Now I’m ashamed to admit that I did get lost here, and not just a little bit lost. Starting before sunrise wasn’t my smartest idea. On the way back to my car, it dawned on me that the large number of emerging signposts and maps were there for a good reason. The Ridgeway path trails off in a variety of directions, and my unintentional 5-hour expedition was the result of stupidity. But hey, there’s something quite powerful about getting lost in nature and I have to say, I thoroughly enjoyed it.
