Best Wiltshire spring walks
As spring firmly takes hold, and warmer days finally arrive, it is a great time to discover the stunning Wiltshire countryside right on our doorstep!
Whether you want shorter strolls for the whole family or longer hikes, there is a lot to explore as spring breathes new life into the county.
Here are some of the springtime walks in Wiltshire we think you should try. Get your walking boots on to discover blooming flowers, blossoming trees and frolicking lambs!
River Bourne Community Farm
Easy to reach, right on the edge of Salisbury, River Bourne Community Farm is an ideal walking option for the whole family, with fifty-four acres of beautiful water meadows. There are a number of permissive paths and nature trails on or near to the farm which means you can stop at the farm to see all the animals, have a break in their café, and take the children on a walking adventure. A really lovely day out. They have nature trail leaflets on their website, here.
River Bourne Community Farm
Figsbury Ring
Just six miles from Salisbury city centre is Figsbury Ring, with its amazing views over Wiltshire's beautiful rolling hills. The National Trust site is home to an unusually designed Iron Age hill fort, containing a smaller, possibly Neolithic, enclosure. The views from the ramparts make the trip worthwhile. On a clear day you can see Salisbury Plain, Old Sarum and Salisbury Cathedral. The ramparts here also act as a refuge for unusual plants including orchids.
Figsbury Ring
Clarendon Park
Clarendon Palace is a medieval ruin just a few miles east of Salisbury. It is part of Clarendon Park, the largest deer park in medieval England and has been inhabited from Neolithic and Bronze ages onwards. Although the estate is private, and the site fenced, there are footpaths that offer walks through beautiful woodland and downland areas. And, don’t be shocked if you come across some llamas, they are often seen gazing around the ruins!
Although there is no parking nearby it is a lovely walk to get here with impressive views down to Salisbury Cathedral. There are trails from Pitton and Salisbury that run past the ruins. If you are looking for a longer hike why not try the full Clarendon Way walk.
Views from the Clarendon Way and Figsbury Ring overlook the Wiltshire countryside
Dinton Park
Dinton Park Trail is a varied walk through parkland, woodland, farmland, orchards and villages. You can make it as short or as long as you like. The whole trail takes you along part of the Monarch's Way and through the pretty villages of Dinton and Teffont Magna.
You’ll find a lot to explore in the 200 acres of park and woodland of Dinton Park, with Philips House (a neo-Grecian style property), deer, hare and red kite just some of the wildlife to be found. There is a car park available but no other facilities.
Dinton Park and Philips House
Stourhead
If you are willing to travel a little further, a visit to Stourhead will brighten your day at this time of year! With hills, water and classical architecture the estate is always a good location for a walk but it’s made extra special now that the yellow daffodils appear in swathes throughout the garden and wider estate. Also, look out for new life on the lake as duckling and cygnets start to take to the water. The National Trust site is located about 50 minutes to the west of Salisbury, near Mere.
Stourhead
Salisbury city
You don’t have to travel that far for a beautiful walk though. Why not enjoy the city and countryside at the same time!
Salisbury is a modern medieval city in the heart of the countryside with many walks to discover.
At 80 acres, Salisbury Cathedral Close is Britain’s largest Cathedral Close and reflects architectural styles from the 13th through to the 20th Century. Take a sunny stroll, stop at one of the cafes, or why not picnic on the cathedral lawns.
Once you’ve seen the beauty of the Close, make your way to Queen Elizabeth Gardens with its rolling lawns and spring flowers, where you can start the Town Path walk. This route will take you to Harnham, just make sure you keep your eyes peeled on the way for the famous view of the cathedral painted by Constable.
Views from the Salisbury Town Path
If you want a child-friendly trail, be sure to check out the Discovery Nature Trail which takes you in and around Salisbury. Or, if you want to learn more about Salisbury and its rich heritage, download the Salisbury Trails app for a route that will explain the history of our modern medieval city.
Make a day of it with lunch in one of our delicious foodie venues.
From family-friendly restaurants to welcoming cafes and fine-dining experiences, you can find it in Salisbury.