Divine Café at the White Horse Cherhill in Wiltshire:

Wonderful Walks across Wiltshire…..

Wiltshire has more than 7000 paths for walkers and cyclists to explore. Whether you choose a gentle stroll or want a more a challenging route, there is a network of footpaths for everyone.

Much of Wiltshire is designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and one of the best ways to explore is on foot.  Prehistoric sites such as Stonehenge and Avebury, plus the Ridgeway, Silbury Hill, and the famous White Horse figures that have been cut into the hillsides exposing the chalk beneath, provide examples of the importance to Wiltshire of its wonderful landscape.

There are many places to see, but we have chosen just a few of our favourite places to share with you.  We hope you find them interesting.

Morgan’s Hill & Smallgrain Plantation

The Devizes to Calne road crosses over a corner of the Marlborough Downs and there are some spectacular walks to be found here.  Park at the picnic area by Smallgrain Plantation and walk up above the Cherhill White Horse.  Morgan’s Hill is a nature reserve: go there to search for orchids at some times of the year, or enjoy more common plants if you prefer.   The Ancient Britain’s built the Wansdyke over the hills, and the Romans somewhat later built the roads too – not always straight despite their reputation but they are still used today as bridleways.  This is a peaceful walk and one that can be enjoyed by all.

 Heddington

Nestling under the flank of the Marlborough Downs, Heddington is a quiet and quaint little village with a pub (the Ivy) famed for real ale served straight from the barrel, Parish church, and plenty of walking.   Although Heddington is midway between Calne and Devizes and between Melksham and Avebury, the road layout is such that you have to make a distinct detour to see it – perhaps why it retains its quiet charm.

Taking the road from Calne to Marlborough you crossover the downs where you will find a host of features: the Ancient Stone Circle of Avebury and the Cherhill White Horse being just a few of the main attractions.  They add to the beauty of the upland area and in spring you can see the glorious colours of Westwood’s too.

 Oliver’s Castle

On the Marlborough Downs stands Oliver Castle – a bare earthwork that has associations with Olive Cromwell and the Battle of Roundway Hill in 1643.  From the garden estate in Devizes a single track road that becomes a dirt track leads up to Oliver’s Castle where you can park and enjoy spectacular views of Wiltshire’s peaceful, glorious countryside; rural England at its best.   Stroll down the path to the end of the fort and you will see more magnificent views. It looks like the whole world in front of your eyes, such a grand vista. It was reported in 1996 that UFO’s were sighted here flying above the crop circle just beyond the fort.  ‘Like balls of light’ said one observer?  Without a doubt the area is itself surrounded in mystery, as folklore claims the area Haunted.  It is said that there are more Ghosts in Wiltshire than any other county. 

Shearwater Lake

One of the most beautiful places you will ever visit is Shearwater Lake on the Longleat Estate.  It is situated just outside Warminster on the A350 heading towards Longbridge Deverill.  38 acres of superb landscaped woodland sits one of the finest waterways in England.  The walk takes approximately 3 hours but the views are sensational so don’t forget your camera! The Lake which is part of the Longleat estate was designed in 1791 by Francis drake of Bridgewater.  It is known for its fishing and sailing but is perfect for a walking day out along the outskirts in such pleasant surroundings.  It is without doubt one of the most scenic spots in the county.

A Divine Experience - Home Cooking in the Heart of Wiltshire: