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Walking in South Wiltshire

Blessed with plentiful footpaths and crossed by ancient drove roads, the rolling chalk downlands and tree-lined river valleys which characterise the landscape of south Wiltshire offer outstanding opportunities for exploring on foot.

Long-distance enthusiasts will find plenty of challenge in the 34-mile Avon Valley Path, which links Salisbury Cathedral with Christchurch Priory in Dorset via unspoilt habitats rich in flora and fauna.

Equally satisfying is the Clarendon Way, which runs for some 24 miles between the cathedral cities of Salisbury and Winchester - encompassing woodland, downland and river valley landscapes, the variety of scenery is superb.

For shorter outings with a nature theme, Wiltshire Wildlife Trust's reserves are outstanding - try Cockey Down for magnificent views of Salisbury Cathedral spir; Langford Lakes for a superb example of habitat restoration in action; or Coombe Bissett Down for fascinating evidence of ancient field systems known as strip lynchets.

At the heart of Salisbury Plain, a 6-mile walk from West Lavington
takes in part of the Wessex Ridgeway and provides superb views across hills and woodland.

From Downton, with its thatched cottages fronting the village green, paths lead up on to Wick Down (a favourite habitat for hare and deer) and from here it is possible to walk for miles along well-marked routes.

The Woodford Valley, with its charming villages and inns beside the River Avon, provides easy walking, with 4-mile, 6½-mile and 7½-mile options to choose from.

While in the west of the region, an easy 3½-mile trail offers the chance to compare Old and New Wardour Castles (the one dating from the 14th century and in the care of English Heritage; the other built in the 18th century, but not open to the public).

Among other excellent walks too numerous to mention are those at Shearwater Lake on the Longleat Estate; White Sheet Hill above Mere; Figsbury Rings near the Winterbournes; and Clearbury Rings south of Odstock.

Further information on walking in south Wiltshire is available from Salisbury Tourist Information Centre, telephone +44 (0) 1722 334956 or email visitorinfo@salisbury.gov.uk.

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