Silbury Hill and West Kennet Avenue Circular from Avebury
Wiltshire
This 4.8km circuit from Avebury links three of Wiltshire's most extraordinary prehistoric monuments: the Avebury stone circle itself, the vast artificial mound of Silbury Hill, and the West Kennet Avenue with its paired standing stones marching across the fields. The route heads south from the village through open chalk farmland to Silbury Hill, a 40-metre-high Neolithic mound built around 2400 BC whose purpose remains debated. The return follows the West Kennet Avenue, where the line of sarsen stones creates a processional way back to the main circle. The landscape is gentle and open, with just 78 metres of climbing on well-worn field paths.
This is a fascinating dog friendly walk that combines easy terrain with an overwhelming density of ancient history. Off-lead potential is limited as livestock grazes the surrounding fields and dogs must be kept under close control near the monument areas where other visitors concentrate. The chalk farmland carries good scent and the open landscape gives clear sightlines in every direction. Water sources are scarce, so carry a supply. The National Trust car park at Avebury has good facilities, and the Red Lion pub in the village centre, uniquely situated within the stone circle, welcomes dogs. The walk works in all seasons but is particularly atmospheric on misty autumn mornings when the stones emerge from the fog.
At a Glance
- Distance
- 4.8 km (3.0 miles)
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Duration
- 1 hr 30 min
- Walk Type
- Historic
- Route Type
- Circular
- Off Lead Potential
- Low
- Livestock Risk
- Moderate
- Facilities
- National Trust shop, Cafe, Toilets
- Parking
- National Trust Avebury car park - charged for non-members
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Silbury Hill and West Kennet Avenue Circular from Avebury dog friendly?
This is a great choice for a dog walk, scoring 9 out of 10 for dog friendliness. The 4.8km circuit covers gentle chalk farmland on well-worn field paths, and after the walk the Red Lion pub in the village , uniquely positioned within the stone circle itself , welcomes dogs. Parking is available at the National Trust Avebury car park, which also has a café, shop, and toilets.
Can dogs be off lead at Silbury Hill and West Kennet Avenue Circular from Avebury?
Off-lead opportunities are limited on this walk. Livestock grazes the surrounding chalk farmland, and dogs should also be kept under close control near the monument areas where visitors tend to gather. That said, the open landscape does give excellent sightlines, so you'll have plenty of notice to leash up when needed.
What should I know before visiting Silbury Hill and West Kennet Avenue Circular from Avebury with my dog?
The most important thing to pack is water , natural sources are scarce along the route, so bring enough for your dog for the full 4.8km. Livestock is present in the fields, so a reliable recall or lead is essential throughout. The walk is accessible year-round, and is particularly special on misty autumn mornings when the standing stones appear out of the fog.
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