There are bank holidays galore in May, the weather is finally improving and it's the perfect time to go out for a walk and see what nature has to offer.
Swindon and Wiltshire have many lovely places to wander and lose yourself in nature.
Here are 10 particularly picturesque options. Have you tried them all?
1. Town Gardens
Located in Old Town in central Swindon, the Town Gardens make a great place for a family walk.
Being easily located so close to the town centre as well as being the home of the historic Town Gardens Cafe, it makes for a great outing even with the smallest of children.
Some of the features that make the park special include the Bowl, the bandstand and the aviary and pond.
The park is open daily from 7.30AM.
2. Cherhill Down
A walk to the top of Cherhill Down will reward visitors with wonderful views for miles around.
Once there, people can explore Oldbury Castle hill fort which, during the summer, is covered in wildflowers.
In the spring and summer, the Downs are alive with the sounds of skylarks and meadow pipits.
You can start at the A4 lay-by, edge of Cherhill, then follow the path up to the Lansdowne Monument.
Cherhill Down is home to rare plants and insects, such as burnt-tip orchid, bastard toadflax, Adonis blue butterfly and juniper shield bug.
3. Drews Pond Wood
Drews Pond Wood Local Nature Reserveis a hidden gem for many in Wiltshire. A network of pathways runs through the reserve, with vast woodland and wildlife to be spotted.
There is a lot of history on the site - and the Drews Pond Project group are fighting to preserve it - with information boards scattered across the reserve with further information.
Habitats to see include meadows, coppice and woodland. 29 Ancient Woodland indicator species can be found, such as wood sorrel, Solomon's seal, and field roses. There are also plenty of birds and mammals for the kids to look out for, including bats, buzzards and badgers. You may also see a long eared owl.
A succession of flowers can be found throughout the year, such as snowdrops and bluebells in the spring and marsh buttercups and anemones later in the year.
4. The Kennet & Avon Canal
Crossing the heart of Wiltshire, you can enjoy either a long-distance walk or take shorter walks along the canal.
As well as the wealth of wildlife the canal offers, you'll be able to see both Caen Hill Locks and Crofton Pumping Station as well as some pretty towns and villages along the way.
You’ll find plenty of refreshment stops en route too including canal side pubs and tea rooms.
5. Malmesbury loop
The town of Malmesbury is circled by the River Avon.
From the Malmesbury Information Centre, or via the Explore Malmesbury App, you can follow a series of historical trails in the town centre, such as past the Abbey House Gardens and St Aldhem’s Mead.
6. Coate Water Country Park, Coate
The bustling lake is a popular spot for dog walkers, with a mix of tarmacked paths, woodland and fields to scamper around.
The park has a 4.5/5 rating on Tripadvisor, with one reviewer writing: "We walked over from the holiday inn. Busy road to cross but footpath along to country park. Nice walk round. Ideal for bikes & dogs & kids. Didn't see the play park. Lots of nesting swans. Walked to Sun inn for tea. Brilliant day."
7. Shearwater Lake
Within the Longleat estate you’ll find Shearwater Lake. Enjoy short walks on the lakeside or extended walks taking in the wider estate. For spectacular views, head on the route to Heaven’s Gate.
8. Roundway Down
Roundway Down was the scene of a battle during the English Civil War and is located near to Devizes.
Forming part of the North Wessex Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty you will enjoy sweeping views across the Wiltshire countryside here.
To extend your walk you can continue along the Wessex Ridgeway towards Morgan's Hill where you can pick up the Wansdyke Path.
9. Corsham
Many of the Public Rights of Way in Corsham are ancient, with some even dating back to Roman times, and are well-defined and walked regularly. The topography of the area allows for a variety of walks for all ages and abilities.
Walkers can choose from many places of interest nearby, all of which are accessible on foot from Corsham. For example, it is possible to walk to Brunel’s famous Box Tunnel; the National Trust village of Lacock, and other National Trust properties; as well as Corsham Court and its parkland. The Visit Corsham website contains a wealth of resources on where to go.
10. Silbury Hill
Silbury Hill is one of the most mysterious ancient features in the country as well as being one of the most stunning.
English Heritage said it's the largest artificial mound in Europe and compares in height and volume to the roughly contemporary Egyptian pyramids.
Though clearly important in itself, its purpose and significance remain unknown.
A nearby car park off the A4 makes exploring the area easy.
Although the ancient earth mound itself is not open to the public, much of the surrounding countryside is ideal for rambling, and the relative gentleness of the terrain means it is suitable for all who enjoy walking.
What is your favourite place to go for a walk in the area? Let us know in the comments.
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