Savernake Forest Circular from Postern Hill
Wiltshire
Savernake Forest is the only privately owned ancient forest in England, a vast expanse of oak, beech and sweet chestnut south of Marlborough in Wiltshire that has been continuously wooded for over a thousand years. This 9km circuit from Postern Hill follows broad forest rides through cathedral-like avenues of mature trees before weaving onto quieter paths where the woodland feels older, denser and wilder. The Grand Avenue, a straight, tree-lined ride over a mile long, is the forest's most famous feature, and the ancient oaks include specimens over 600 years old. With just 89 metres of climbing, the terrain is gentle throughout on well-drained forest paths.
This is an excellent dog friendly walk with moderate off-lead potential on the quieter forest paths, though dogs should be kept under close control as deer are present throughout the forest. The ancient woodland floor carries rich, complex scent from centuries of leaf litter, fungi and the deep earth of old forest, and the mature trees provide reliable shade in summer and shelter from rain. Livestock risk is low within the forest. The forest rides are wide and well maintained, and the quieter paths add variety without navigation difficulty. Postern Hill campsite has parking and basic facilities, and Marlborough is a short drive with numerous dog-friendly pubs and cafés. The forest is stunning in every season, but the autumn colour from the beech and sweet chestnut is particularly spectacular.
At a Glance
- Distance
- 9.0 km (5.6 miles)
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Duration
- 2 hr 30 min
- Walk Type
- Woodland
- Route Type
- Circular
- Off Lead Potential
- Moderate
- Livestock Risk
- Low
- Facilities
- None on route
- Parking
- Postern Hill Forestry England car park
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Savernake Forest Circular from Postern Hill dog friendly?
Savernake Forest scores 8 out of 10 for dog friendliness, making it a great choice for a day out with your dog. The wide, well-maintained forest rides are easy to walk together, livestock risk within the forest is low, and the mature tree canopy offers shade in summer and shelter when the weather turns. Marlborough is just a short drive away if you want to round off the walk with a stop at one of its dog-friendly pubs or cafés.
Can dogs be off lead at Savernake Forest Circular from Postern Hill?
There's moderate off-lead potential on the quieter forest paths, where the woodland feels more secluded and traffic is minimal. That said, deer are present throughout Savernake Forest, so dogs should be kept under close control , particularly on the broader rides where deer movement is more likely. It's worth having a reliable recall before letting your dog roam freely here.
What should I know before visiting Savernake Forest Circular from Postern Hill with my dog?
Deer are present throughout the forest, so keeping your dog under close control is important for their safety and the wellbeing of the wildlife. There are no facilities on the route itself, so bring water for your dog , though Postern Hill car park provides a useful base to return to. The forest paths are well-drained and gentle, with only 89 metres of climbing across the 9km circuit, which makes this a manageable walk for most dogs.
Postern Hill Car Park, Savernake Forest, Marlborough, Wiltshire SN8 4ND
51.4105, -1.7157
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