The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Avebury
4.5
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7,955
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50
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Family friendly hiking trails around Avebury traverse a landscape characterized by rolling chalk downland and ancient earthworks. The region features impressive sarsen stones, including the distinctive Greyweathers, and incorporates sections of the ancient Ridgeway National Trail. Hikers will encounter significant prehistoric monuments such as the Avebury Stone Circle, Silbury Hill, and the West Kennet Long Barrow, which are integrated into the natural environment. This area offers varied terrain suitable for different ability levels, from gentle paths across open fields to…
Last updated: July 1, 2026
4.6
(52)
208
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(31)
248
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(8)
58
hikers
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(9)
31
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19.5km
05:16
250m
250m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(5)
61
hikers
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Avebury
Celtic Way — An epic pilgrimage through prehistory and wild beauty
White Horse Trail — Linking Wiltshire's epic hill carvings
Hiking the Greater Ridgeway — Following Roman roads across England
Wessex Ridgeway — An ancient and beautiful ridge hike
Cycle the Greater Ridgeway Trail — English Channel to North Sea
Ride the ancient Ridgeway – Prehistoric stone circles & white horses
Severn and Thames Way – Cycle along historic waterways
Trust10 – Trail Runs. In nature, for nature.
Other adventures around Avebury
Tips from the Community
An interesting village with a historical background and many sights: 1. Avebury Stone Circle The largest prehistoric stone circle in the world. Unlike Stonehenge, you can walk freely among the stones. The circle even encloses the village of Avebury. 2. Avebury Henge The massive earthwork and ditch surrounding the stone circle. From some vantage points, you get a good impression of the enormous dimensions of the site. 3. Silbury Hill Europe's largest man-made prehistoric mound. The hill lies about 2 km south of Avebury and is a fascinating Neolithic puzzle. 4. West Kennet Long Barrow A Neolithic chamber tomb over 5,000 years old, the burial chambers of which can be entered. Particularly atmospheric in the early morning or evening. 5. The Sanctuary The remains of another Stone Age ritual site at the end of the old processional way. 6. West Kennet Avenue An impressive avenue of standing stones that once linked Avebury with The Sanctuary. 7. Avebury Manor A 16th-century manor house with beautiful gardens. It is now looked after by the National Trust. 8. Alexander Keiller Museum A small but very interesting museum about the history and archaeology of Avebury and the surrounding monuments. 9. Windmill Hill One of the oldest known Neolithic sites in Britain with beautiful views over the Wiltshire landscape.
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If this is referring to the national cycle 45 past Avebury, it's simply to muddy and uneven for long distance cycle touring on a gravel bike.
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Avebury is one of the largest prehistoric stone circles in the world. Unlike many other stone monuments, here you can walk among the massive stones and experience the special atmosphere up close. The site was created about 4,500 years ago and is part of the UNESCO World Heritage.
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The Hackpen White Horse is a large white chalk figure on the slopes of Hackpen Hill in Wiltshire. It was probably created in 1838 and is one of the well-known "White Horses" of Southern England. The historic long-distance path The Ridgeway runs directly above. From here, there is a wide view over the rolling chalk hills of the Marlborough Downs. The White Horse, the open landscape, and the ancient Ridgeway make the place a popular destination for hikers and photographers. A car park and short footpaths allow easy access to the viewpoint.
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What a lovely point of view
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available around Avebury?
Avebury offers a wide selection of routes suitable for families. Our guide features over 50 family-friendly hiking trails, with 19 classified as easy and 27 as moderate, ensuring there's something for every family's ability.
What kind of terrain can we expect on family hikes in Avebury?
The Avebury area is characterized by beautiful rolling chalk downland, offering expansive views and generally gentle paths. You'll encounter open fields, hillsides, and sections of ancient trails like The Ridgeway. While many paths are well-maintained, some can be uneven, especially after rain, so sturdy footwear is recommended.
Are there any easy circular walks suitable for families with young children?
Yes, there are several easy circular options. For a gentle introduction to the area's history, consider the West Kennet Avenue – Avebury Village loop, which is just over 5 km and takes you through the heart of the ancient landscape. Another great choice is the Avebury Stone Circle – West Kennet Avenue loop, an easy 6.7 km route that immerses you in the prehistoric sites.
What historical landmarks or natural features can we see along the family trails?
Avebury is rich in history and natural beauty. Many family-friendly routes pass by iconic sites such as the magnificent Avebury Stone Circle, the enigmatic Silbury Hill, and the ancient West Kennet Long Barrow. You might also spot the impressive Cherhill White Horse carved into the hillside or the distinctive sarsen stones scattered across the landscape.
Are dogs allowed on the family-friendly hiking trails in Avebury?
Many of the trails around Avebury are dog-friendly, making it a great destination for the whole family, including your canine companions. However, as much of the area is working farmland or nature reserves, it's essential to keep dogs on a lead, especially near livestock, and to clean up after them. Always check specific route details for any restrictions.
What is the average duration of family walks in Avebury?
The duration varies depending on the route and your family's pace. Many easy family-friendly walks, like the loops around Avebury Stone Circle and West Kennet Avenue, can be completed in 1.5 to 2.5 hours. Moderate routes, such as the Archaeology Trail & the Ridgeway loop, might take around 2.5 to 3 hours.
Where can we find parking for family hikes in Avebury?
There is a National Trust car park located conveniently in Avebury village, which provides easy access to many of the main trails and attractions. Additional parking options may be available in surrounding villages, but the main Avebury car park is generally the most suitable starting point for exploring the stone circle and nearby routes.
Are there any cafes or pubs near the family hiking trails for refreshments?
Yes, Avebury village itself offers amenities perfect for a post-hike treat. You'll find cafes and traditional pubs where you can enjoy refreshments, snacks, or a meal. These are often located conveniently close to the main prehistoric sites, making them easy to access after your family adventure.
What do other hikers enjoy most about family hiking in Avebury?
The Avebury area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.55 stars. Reviewers consistently praise the unique blend of ancient history and stunning natural beauty, highlighting the joy of walking amongst the prehistoric stones and the expansive, peaceful chalk downland. The accessibility of the sites for families is also frequently mentioned.
What is the best time of year to visit Avebury for family hiking?
Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for family hikes, with wildflowers blooming and longer daylight hours. However, Avebury is beautiful year-round. Autumn brings stunning colours to the landscape, and even winter walks can be magical, though paths might be muddier. Always check the weather forecast before heading out.
Are there any trails that offer a good view of Silbury Hill?
Absolutely! The Silbury Hill – West Kennet Long Barrow loop is a moderate 8 km route that takes you right past the base of Silbury Hill, allowing you to appreciate its impressive scale up close. This trail also includes the fascinating West Kennet Long Barrow.
Most popular attractions around Avebury
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