The best hikes from bus stations around Fonthill Lake
4.7
(190)
1,070
hikers
15
hikes
Bus station hiking trails around Fonthill Lake are set within a picturesque estate in southwest Wiltshire, characterized by a mile-long tranquil lake and extensive parkland. The landscape features mature woodlands, rolling hills, and varied terrain, with elevations ranging from approximately 100 to over 150 meters above sea level. Public footpaths and bridleways offer mixed surfaces, including gravelly tracks and field paths, providing diverse scenery for hikers.
Best bus station hiking trails around Fonthill Lake
- The most popular bus station hiking…
Last updated: July 13, 2026
4.6
(16)
78
hikers
12.2km
03:19
170m
170m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(4)
5
hikers
9.86km
02:41
150m
150m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
5.0
(1)
4
hikers
18.4km
05:07
350m
350m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
hikers
10.3km
02:52
200m
190m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
A lovely pub half way round. Or if you’re tight for time park near here and just walk around the lake
0
0
Interesting feature that looks like it was part of a railway, but clearly it never was.
1
0
It's not beautiful anymore.
0
0
Fonthill Lake is part of the Fonthill Estate, which dates back to 1533. The lake is natural but has been landscaped over the years and used to power mills as well as for pleasure. Today it's a great place to run, with a footpath along the western shore.
0
0
Hindon is a sleepy Wiltshire village with a history that stretches back to 1218. It has an attractive high street with a couple of pubs, a village shop, and an old church. There is accommodation, too.
3
0
Fonthill Lake is a tranquil stretch of water nestling in the picturesque Fonthill Estate. You can hike right along the west banks of the lake and watch impressive displays of birdlife at all times of year. The lake was used as the location for the river scenes in the movie Chocolat, which starred Juliette Binoche and Johnny Depp.
2
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many bus station accessible hiking trails are available around Fonthill Lake?
There are 15 hiking trails around Fonthill Lake that are accessible from bus stations. These routes offer a variety of experiences, from easy strolls to more challenging treks.
What is the general difficulty level of bus station accessible hikes in the Fonthill Lake area?
The majority of bus station accessible hikes around Fonthill Lake are rated as moderate, with 11 such routes. There are also 3 easy routes and 1 difficult trail for those seeking a greater challenge.
Are there any easy, family-friendly bus station hikes near Fonthill Lake?
Yes, there are several easy routes suitable for families. A great option is the Fonthill Bishop Arch – All Saints Church loop from Fonthill Gifford, which is approximately 6.9 km long and takes around 1 hour 50 minutes, offering gentle terrain and scenic views.
What kind of scenery can I expect on bus station hikes around Fonthill Lake?
Hikers can expect diverse scenery, including tranquil views of the mile-long Fonthill Lake, extensive parkland, and mature woodlands. You'll encounter varied terrain from gravelly tracks to field paths, with elevations ranging from 100 to over 150 meters above sea level. Keep an eye out for birdlife, including Mandarin ducks and wild swans.
Are there any historical points of interest along the bus station hiking trails?
Yes, the Fonthill Estate has a rich history. Many trails pass by historical sites and villages like Fonthill Bishop and Fonthill Gifford. The lake itself was created in the mid-18th century, and the landscaped park is Grade II* listed. You might encounter remnants of the estate's past, such as grottoes, or pass by churches like All Saints Church.
Which bus station accessible routes offer the best lake views?
Many routes provide excellent lake views. The All Saints Church – Fonthill Lake loop from Fonthill Gifford is a moderate 9.9 km trail that prominently features the lake. Another option is the Fonthill Lake loop from Hinden — Cranbourne Chase & West Wiltshire Downs, which also offers extensive lake vistas.
What do other hikers say about the bus station accessible trails in this area?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from 178 ratings. Reviewers often praise the tranquil beauty of the lake, the varied woodlands, and the well-maintained public footpaths that make for enjoyable walks.
Are there any longer, more challenging bus station hikes available?
For those looking for a longer and more challenging experience, the Hindon Village – Holy Trinity Church loop from Fonthill Gifford is a difficult 18.4 km route. It offers significant elevation changes and takes approximately 5 hours 7 minutes to complete.
When is the best time of year to hike around Fonthill Lake from a bus station?
The area is beautiful year-round. However, May is particularly vibrant when the pink-flowered horse chestnuts are in bloom. The tranquil lake views and diverse birdlife can be enjoyed throughout the seasons, making it a great destination for spring, summer, and autumn walks.
Can I find circular bus station routes around Fonthill Lake?
Yes, many of the bus station accessible routes are circular, allowing you to start and end your hike at the same point, often near a bus stop. Examples include the Hindon Village – Hindon Village loop from Fonthill Gifford and the Fonthill Lake loop from Hinden — Cranbourne Chase & West Wiltshire Downs.
Most popular routes around Fonthill Lake
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
