The Best Autumn Walks In And Around Swindon

The summer is over and Autumn is finally here. So as the leaves start to fall from the tress and the cold weather creeps nearer, we’ve put together our pick of the best Autumn walks in and around Swindon. Take a look below to find out more.

1.) Westonbirt Arboretum

Famous for its stunning nature trails consisting of over 2,500 different species of plants and trees, Westonbirt Arboretum is the perfect place to take a relaxing Autumn stroll. Located 19 miles outside of Swindon in Westonbirt, near Tetbury, The National Arboretum gives visitors a chance to explore trees from all over the globe as you escape from reality and unwind in the beautiful scenery of the Arboretum. 

Take a tour of the arboretums expansive and open walking trails, with their autumn seasonal trails certain to leave you breathless as you take in the picturesque views and work up a sweat trekking around the multiple walking routes on offer. 

With an explosion of colour around every corner, this year's seasonal trails are a great way to get outdoors and with guided walks throughout September and October, the is definitely one of the great Autumn walks near Swindon.

*Please note that booking is essential at Westonbirt Arboretum currently so they can limit numbers. Please do not visit without pre-booking.

Address: GL8 8QS

Find out more about Westonbirt Arboretum here. 

2.) Lydiard Country Park

We’re all familiar with Lydiard Park and its expansive open spaces. And as the leaves start to fall as we progress through September, this Swindon country park is transformed into one of Wiltshire’s most beautiful autumnal landscapes making it the perfect place for an afternoon walk. 

Spanning across 260 acres, Lydiard Park is just a stones throw from the town centre, with its numerous walking routes making it a favourite for those looking to stretch their legs in the great outdoors. With hundreds of beautiful trees and flowers situated throughout the grounds of the historic Lydiard House, those visiting the park will be left stunned as you walk through the puddles of fallen leaves and take in the autumn scenery.

Sat Nav Address: SN5 3PA

Explore more of Lydiard Country Park here. 

3.) Coate Water Country Park

In the summer months, Coate Water is packed with families and friends lounging across the multiple green areas enjoying picnics and soaking up the sun. But in Autumn, Coate Water is transformed into one of Swindon’s most popular walking routes with its woodland pathways surrounding the lake making it a great space to get out in the fresh air without having to travel far from the town centre. 

If you don’t have time for a long walk then Coate Water is perfect as a lap of the lake will take you roughly just 15 minutes. If you’re looking to get fit this Autumn then Coate Water is a great place to go running as well. 

Sat Nav Address: SN3 6AA

To find out more about Coate Water click here. 

4.) Stanton Country Park

Stanton Country Park is another of Swindon’s best Autumn walking routes with its 74-hectare landscape and elegant lake making it a great place to stretch your legs as the cold weather returns once again. Stretching out across Stanton Fitzwarren, this local nature reserve features from beautiful expansive woodland making it a picturesque walking route as the leaves start to fall and the trees are left bare this Autumn. 

If you’re heading to the park for a walk then be sure to keep an eye out for the local wildlife with deers, owls, and birds often occupying areas of the nature reserve. After you’ve finished your walk, why not head over to Stanton House Hotel for something to eat as you recharge your batteries. 

Sat Nav Address: SN6 7SF

For more information about Stanton Country Park click here. 

5.) Barbury Castle

Based on the outskirts of Wroughton, Barbury Castle is famous throughout Wiltshire with many ramblers often flocking to the landmark to stretch their legs in the great outdoors. Spanning across 60 hectares of open grassland, Barbury Castle features from multiple scenic walking routes that offer spectacular views of surrounding town and villages, making it a great place to get outdoors with friends and family as we edge ever closer towards the end of the year. 

With expansive roaming fields, this popular walking spot is also a fantastic place to take your dog for a walk. 

Sat Nav Address: SN4 0QH

You can find out more about Barbury Castle here.