Salisbury is at the heart of many of the UK's most treasured landscapes, and locals have the benefit of experiencing all the seasons. 

The National Trust has free step-by-step walks in Wiltshire that are perfect for soaking up Wiltshire’s rich heritage in the autumn air. 

We’ve compiled these into a list with details on how far the trails are from Salisbury for those planning a day trip.

Dinton Park Trail

Nine miles from Salisbury approx. 

Phillips House and its 200-acre grounds were left to the National Trust in the mid-20th century and are a great place to experience the English countryside. 

The area is perfect for an autumnal walk, thanks to the ancient sweet chestnut trees in the woods and north-west slopes of the park.  

These walking trails also offer the opportunity to spot wild deer and rabbits, and interesting birds like kingfishers and potentially barn owls. 

Find maps, download walks and further information here

Stourhead's surrounding countryside

27 miles from Salisbury approx.

The National Trust’s Stourhead house and world-famous landscape garden first opened in the 1740s. 

Although entry to the house must be booked in advance, the grounds and gardens can be explored without pre-booking and dogs are allowed on leads. 

The wider 2,500 acre Stourhead estate is perfect for exploring in autumn, with an Iron Age hill fort, acres of ancient woodland and a 160ft high folly, King Alfred's Tower, all against the backdrop of amber leaves.

Find maps, download walks and further information here.

Avebury landscape

28 miles from Salisbury approx. 

Avebury’s world-famous prehistoric landscape expands further than the village and stone circles. 

You can stroll around the largest prehistoric man-made mound, Silbury Hill, discover Windmill hill, walk to the rolling chalk downland along West Kennet Avenue, or spend the day trekking around all of them. 

Find maps, download walks and further information here.

Lacock village walk

34 miles from Salisbury approx.

The picturesque Lacock village has a number of walks, with the opportunity to appreciate quirky architecture and medieval history. 

There is the added benefit of being able to visit The Abbey, an impressive country house built on the foundations of a former nunnery. 

The previous resident William Henry Fox Talbot was famous for contributing to the invention of photography and you can also visit the nearby museum named after him.

As well as being a family friendly walking destination, with local shops to stop at, their Lover’s Walk is described as the ‘perfect meander’ and great for couples or a memorable first date. 

Find maps, download walks and further information here.

Calstone and Cherhill Downs

33 miles from Salisbury approx.

Calstone and Cherhill Downs have a lot to offer, from sights like the Cherhiill White Horse, The Lansdowne Monument, and Oldbury Castle, to the chalkland wildlife which hosts some of the rarest butterflies in the UK. 

There is plenty to explore independently, and great spots for sipping hot chocolate whilst admiring the landscape, but the National Trust walks are great for giving some structure to this. 

Their Calstone Down walk offers stunning views, with a guide to some of the wildlife too, their longer Calstone and Cherhill Downs trail also taking you through Oldbury Castle and the Wansdyke.

Find maps, download walks and further information here.

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