Walking in the North Wessex Downs

The North Wessex Downs is a vast sweep of rolling chalk hills, open downland and hidden valleys stretching across Berkshire, Wiltshire, Hampshire and Oxfordshire. Rich in prehistoric heritage, ancient trackways and sweeping countryside views, it offers walkers a peaceful yet fascinating landscape to explore in southern England, with easy access from towns and cities such as Swindon, Reading and Basingstoke.

This Cicerone guidebook helps you discover the very best of the North Wessex Downs through 30 circular walks ranging from 6–21km (4–13 miles), perfect for everything from relaxed countryside strolls to rewarding full-day hikes. With clear directions, mapping and practical planning advice, it provides everything you need to confidently explore one of England’s most beautiful protected landscapes.

This guide to walking in the North Wessex Downs features 30 circular routes across this beautiful National Landscape, including the historic trails of The Ridgeway and panoramic viewpoints above the chalk downs
Clear step-by-step route descriptions with 1:40,000 OS mapping make navigation straightforward as you explore highlights such as the ancient hillside figure of the Uffington White Horse
Downloadable GPX files allow you to follow the routes easily on a GPS device or smartphone while discovering historic landscapes like Avebury Stone Circle
Routes of 2–6 hours make it easy to plan memorable walking days across varied terrain, from the open chalk uplands to the tranquil river valleys near the River Kennet, perfect for a day out in the region
Practical planning information and local insights highlight picturesque villages, historic sites and countryside viewpoints across the wider North Wessex Downs National Landscape


With inspiring routes, reliable navigation and expert local insight, this guidebook is the perfect companion for discovering the timeless landscapes, ancient history and wide-open views of the North Wessex Downs on foot.