This 12.5-mile circular walk near Mere explores the beautiful Deverills and West Wiltshire Downs, with broad rolling downland, ancient tracks and enormous views across this often-overlooked corner of Cranborne Chase National Landscape. It’s tucked between the A303 and Warminster – hit Longleat and you’ve gone too far. This is a longer hike than we’ve shared for a while – but set aside a day, pack a sandwich and treat yourself. It’s a total stunner.
At a glance
Distance: 12.5 miles / 20.1km
Ascent: approx. 395m
Route: Circular
Terrain: Open downland, field paths, tracks and some wooded sections
Area: West Wiltshire Downs, near Mere
Allow: Half a day to a full day, depending on pace
Navigation: Full interactive route and GPX available below
One word of warning – the start of this is immediately and moderately stiffly uphill; if like me you hate that straight out of the gate, you may want to consider reversing the route!
This walk is part of Dorset Life’s Take a Hike collection. We personally create and walk every route we feature, choosing circular walks that explore Dorset’s coast and countryside while avoiding road walking wherever possible.
Browse all our previously published Dorset walks → dorsetlife.co.uk/dorset-walks/
You can also explore more of our routes on OutdoorActive (just zoom out on the map), including walks not yet published in Dorset Life. Each includes a route map and downloadable GPX file.
