The best walks and hikes around Ludgershall
4.4
(137)
703
hikers
17
hikes
Hiking around Ludgershall offers diverse landscapes, characterized by ancient woodlands, open fields, and rolling downs. The region is nestled within the North Wessex Downs, providing varied terrain for exploration. Key features include extensive broadleaf woodlands like Collingbourne Wood and the historical Ludgershall Castle Ruins. This area provides a mix of natural beauty and historical landmarks for hikers.
Best hiking trails around Ludgershall
- The most popular hiking route is Ludgershall & Collingbourne Wood loop — North Wessex Downs, a moderate 8.1 miles (13.1 km) trail that takes 3 hours 33 minutes to complete. This route explores the extensive ancient woodlands and rolling hills of the North Wessex Downs.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Coldridge Wood – Ludgershall Castle Ruins loop from Ludgershall, a moderate 7.1 miles (11.5 km) path. This trail offers opportunities for leisurely strolls through woodlands and passes by the historic castle ruins.
- Local hikers also love the Ludgershall Castle Ruins – Ludgershall Castle loop from Ludgershall, a 3.5 miles (5.6 km) trail leading through historical grounds, often completed in about 1 hour 28 minutes.
- Hiking around Ludgershall is defined by ancient woodlands, open fields, and rolling downs, offering picturesque views across the countryside. The network of trails provides options for different ability levels, from easy paths to more challenging routes.
- The routes in Ludgershall are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 100 reviews. Nearly 600 hikers have used komoot to explore Ludgershall's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 25, 2026
4.3
(8)
25
hikers
13.1km
03:33
180m
180m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.5
(2)
7
hikers
27.9km
07:24
280m
280m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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4.8
(9)
19
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
3
hikers
11.5km
03:05
140m
140m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
10
hikers
12.0km
03:14
150m
150m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The Bulford Kiwi is a large depiction of a kiwi, carved in the chalk on Beacon Hill above the military town of Bulford on Salisbury Plain in Wiltshire, England. It was created in 1919 by soldiers of the New Zealand Expeditionary Force who were awaiting repatriation following the end of the First World War. It is one of the few hill figures in Wiltshire to be neither a white horse nor a military badge.
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Collingbourne Wood is a beautiful ancient woodland located to the south of Savernake Forest in Wiltshire. The woodland is made up of mostly beech trees, and there are a network of pretty trails that leads you around the whole forest.
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Coldridge Wood is part of the larger Collingbourne Wood, located near Ludgershall. It's a wonderful place for a stroll and to get some fresh air in nature, make sure to look out for the well-known Yew Tree that stands on a hilltop just above the parish boundary.
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Looked after by English Heritage but free to enter, Ludgershall Castle probably began construction in the late 11th century and was improved in the 13th century by King John and his son Henry III, when it was used as a hunting lodge. Today, the atmospheric ruins comprise three large walls and extensive earthworks. Also worth seeing is the 14th-century cross nearby in the centre of Ludgershall village.
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Standing on top of Bulford Down, you can look north over miles of military firing ranges. You might see tanks lumbering about in the distance or perhaps the landscape will be shrouded in quiet. The Bulford chalk kiwi carving lies just west of here.
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This charming and little-known chalk hill carving was crafted by New Zealand soldiers in 1919, whilst waiting for transport to take them home after the First World War. For months they were trapped in Bulford Camp, which lies just below the kiwi's hill, as transport ships were unavailable. To alleviate the increasing unrest in the camp, the men's commanding officers set them about carving a giant kiwi into the chalk hillside, leaving their mark. The kiwi covers 1.5 acres (6,100 m sq) and is hard to see, as the military camp takes up much of the land below the hill. There is a good viewing point from the Bulford Droveway whilst you'll find an information board here, at the top of the kiwi's head.
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The creepy teepee, and the start of the gully run lovely flowing trail..credit to whoever built it.
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A lovely trail winding that flows through the gully, various line choices and the chance to get some air .
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Ludgershall?
There are 17 hiking trails around Ludgershall, offering a variety of experiences for different skill levels.
Are there easy hiking trails suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, Ludgershall offers 6 easy hiking trails. One accessible option is the Ludgershall Castle Ruins – Ludgershall Castle loop from Ludgershall, which is 3.5 miles (5.6 km) long and takes about 1 hour 28 minutes to complete, leading through historical grounds.
What kind of landscapes can I expect to see on hikes around Ludgershall?
Hiking around Ludgershall offers diverse landscapes, including ancient woodlands like Collingbourne Wood and Coldridge Wood, open fields, and rolling downs. The region is nestled within the North Wessex Downs, providing varied terrain and picturesque views across the countryside.
Are there any circular walks available in Ludgershall?
Yes, many of the trails around Ludgershall are circular. For example, the Ludgershall & Collingbourne Wood loop — North Wessex Downs is a moderate 8.1-mile (13.1 km) circular route exploring extensive ancient woodlands and rolling hills.
What historical sites or landmarks can I see while hiking near Ludgershall?
You can explore several historical sites. The prominent Ludgershall Castle Ruins are a key attraction, with surviving walls and earthworks. The village also features the rare 14th-century Ludgershall Cross. Nearby, you might encounter Wilton Windmill or the Crofton Locks and Pumping Station on the Kennet and Avon Canal.
Are there any dog-friendly walking routes in the area?
Many trails around Ludgershall are suitable for walking with dogs, especially those through the extensive woodlands and open fields. Always ensure your dog is under control, particularly near livestock or in nature reserves. The Coldridge Wood – Ludgershall Castle Ruins loop from Ludgershall offers opportunities for leisurely strolls through woodlands.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Ludgershall?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 100 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse terrain, from ancient woodlands to open downs, and the blend of natural beauty with historical landmarks like Ludgershall Castle Ruins.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Ludgershall?
The region's ancient woodlands, like Collingbourne Wood, are particularly beautiful in autumn with their changing leaf colors. Spring also offers pleasant conditions with blooming wildflowers. However, the trails are accessible year-round, with winter walks providing a different, often quieter, experience.
Are there any longer or more challenging hikes around Ludgershall?
Yes, for those seeking a more challenging experience, the Tidworth & Bulford Downs loop from Ludgershall is a difficult 17.3-mile (27.9 km) path that takes over 7 hours to complete, offering extensive views across the downs.
Where can I find parking for hiking trails in Ludgershall?
Parking is generally available in or near Ludgershall village, often close to trailheads or local amenities. Specific parking details can vary by route, so it's advisable to check the route description on komoot for the most accurate information before you go.
Are there places to eat or drink near the hiking trails?
Ludgershall and its surrounding villages offer pubs and cafes where you can enjoy refreshments or a meal after your hike. Many routes pass through or near these villages, providing convenient stops.
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