Silbury Hill surrounded by fields under a cloudy sky.
Large standing stone on grassy field under clear blue sky
Silhouette of a large boulder in a field at sunrise with clear blue sky.
Large stone monolith in a grassy field with the sun setting behind it, creating a silhouette effect, surrounded by a fence and distant trees.
Standing stones in a grassy field under a cloudy sky.
Large standing stones at West Kennet Long Barrow, England, under a partly cloudy sky.
Field with standing stones under a cloudy sky
Avebury stone circle with large standing stones on a grassy field under a cloudy sky.
Entrance to a stone chamber tomb with large rocks forming walls and ceiling.
A historic stone church with a square tower and arched windows, surrounded by a grassy area with blooming yellow daffodils and gravestones, under a clear blue sky.
Scenic canal with moored narrowboats
Scenic view of traditional English thatched cottages and brick houses by a pond, surrounded by trees and blue sky.
A white swan swimming in a pond with its wings partially raised, surrounded by water and some grass.
People hiking on a dirt path through a grassy landscape with green fields and distant trees under a clear blue sky.
Grassy mound surrounded by fields and trees under a clear blue sky
Rock formation on grassy hill under clear blue sky

UNESCO Avebury Neolithic Landscape: A Walking Break in the North Wessex Downs

Join us for a short break exploring the stunning North Wessex Downs National Landscape, based in the historic market town of Marlborough. This car-free trip combines leisurely guided walks around the ancient landscape of Avebury and the rolling countryside of the North Wessex Downs, along with sociable evenings enjoying local pubs.

Duration: 2 nights
Accommodation: Hotel
Transport: Car-Free Experience
Group Size: Maximum 8
Level: Leisurely

Pricing & Accommodation: From £325 per person. Shared rooms, single rooms, twin rooms, and double rooms available - see booking calendar for specific dates and pricing.

 
 

Booking Calendar…

Save £50 per person with code AVEBURY26 when you book by 31st May 2026.

UNESCO Avebury Neolithic Landscape: A Walking Break in the North Wessex Downs

Escape to the heart of the North Wessex Downs National Landscape for a walking break exploring the fascinating UNESCO-listed Avebury Neolithic Landscape. Based in the historic market town of Marlborough, this trip offers a perfect blend of guided walks, sociable evenings, and intriguing history.

Silbury Hill at Avebury with the fields full of yellow flowers.

The break begins with a relaxed dinner in Marlborough, giving you the chance to settle in and meet your fellow walkers. Over the next two days, we’ll take in two leisurely walks. On Saturday, you’ll explore the Avebury Stone Circle, Silbury Hill, and West Kennet Long Barrow, immersing yourself in the mysteries of one of the world’s most significant prehistoric landscapes. Sunday takes us to the rolling hills and woodlands around Great Bedwyn, featuring charming historic sites like the Crofton Beam Engines, and the striking Wilton Windmill, with views of the surrounding countryside.

With travel covered by our minibus, including a station pick-up from Hungerford, this Car-Free Experience is designed to ensure you can focus on enjoying the history, scenery, and sociable atmosphere. Whether you’re intrigued by Neolithic history or just want to unwind in a beautiful setting, this walking weekend promises a memorable experience.

Exploring West Kennet Long Barrow

Suggested Itinerary

Here’s what we’ve got planned - of course, we may have to offer alternatives or make amendments if the weather misbehaves or other unexpected situations arise!

  • Arrive at your leisure and settle into our base in the heart of Marlborough, a quaint market town known for its historic charm and welcoming atmosphere. Stroll along the high street or pop into one of the town’s cosy cafés or independent shops if you arrive early.

    We’ll offer a station pick-up from Hungerford at 17:30 for those arriving by train. After checking in at our hotel, join us for a sociable dinner at a local pub to meet your fellow walkers and your Large Outdoors guide.

    For those who choose to drive there is free parking at the hotel and we can use our vehicles to transport you around for the weekend.

  • Distance: 10 miles

    Spend the day immersed in the Neolithic landscape of Avebury, part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

    • Route Highlights:

      • Silbury Hill: Marvel at this ancient, man-made mound, the largest in Europe, shrouded in mystery.

      • West Kennet Long Barrow: Explore the chambers of one of Britain’s most significant prehistoric tombs.

      • The Sanctuary: Uncover the history of this once-impressive wooden and stone monument.

      • The Ridgeway: Walk along Britain’s oldest road, with panoramic views of the North Wessex Downs.

    After returning to Avebury village, there’s time to explore the Avebury Stone Circle, pop into a café, or relax with a drink at a local pub. We’ll then return to Marlborough for a chance to freshen up before enjoying dinner at another venue in town.

  • Distance: 6 miles

    Today’s walk takes us to the scenic area around Great Bedwyn, a peaceful village surrounded by rolling downs and woodlands.

    • Route Highlights:

      • Chisbury: Visit the historic Iron Age hillfort and the 13th-century Chisbury Chapel.

      • Crofton Beam Engines: Pass these magnificent steam engines, a key part of the Kennet and Avon Canal’s history.

      • Wilton Windmill: Enjoy views from Wiltshire’s only working windmill, located at the route’s high point.

    The walk concludes in Great Bedwyn, where train travellers can catch a direct service home. For others, we’ll provide a minibus drop-off at Hungerford station.

Wilton Windmill in the North Wessex Downs National Landscape

Avebury: A UNESCO World Heritage Site

At the heart of this walking weekend lies Avebury, part of the UNESCO-listed Stonehenge and Avebury World Heritage Site. Avebury is one of the most significant prehistoric landscapes in the world, offering a fascinating insight into Neolithic life.

The Avebury Stone Circle, constructed around 2600BC, is the largest stone circle in the world, encompassing part of the village itself. Unlike its more famous neighbour, Stonehenge, Avebury allows visitors to walk freely among the stones, creating a deeper connection with the site. Surrounding the circle, landmarks such as Silbury Hill, the largest man-made mound in Europe, and West Kennet Long Barrow, one of the UK’s most impressive ancient tombs, provide further evidence of the remarkable ingenuity of Neolithic communities.

Avebury is not just about its iconic monuments; the area is a cultural and historical treasure trove, from its mysterious Sanctuary, believed to have been a ceremonial structure, to its connection with the ancient Ridgeway, Britain’s oldest road. Together, these features offer a rare opportunity to immerse yourself in a landscape that has captured human imagination for over 5,000 years.

Sun hiding behind one of the great stones at Avebury Stone Circle

Discover more about Avebury

Read our blog to discover the history of Avebury Stone Circle, nearby ancient sites like Silbury Hill and West Kennet Long Barrow, and tips for exploring this unique location. Click here.

Essential Information

  • Duration: Two nights, three days
    Activity: Walking
    Activity Rating: Leisurely
    Group Size: 8
    Age: 18+
    Dogs: No Dogs, except trained assistance dogs

  • Car-free Experience: Free pick-ups from local train stations, or make your own way to the accommodation. All transport during the trip is included.

    Pickups - must be booked in advance. Free collection from Hungerford Train Station at 17:30.

    Notes: If you've travelled via public transport, please ensure you book onward travel accordingly (i.e. an open return ticket) to allow for flexibility.

  • Check-in from: 15:00
    Meeting: In the bar from 18:00
    Train Station Collection: Hungerford Train Station at 17:30
    Finish Time: We aim to finish on the final day between 15:00 - 16:00.

  • Name & Address:

    Premier Inn Marlborough
    Jennings Road,
    Marlborough,
    SN8 4WL

    Type: Hotel
    Rooms Available:Single Rooms, Twin Rooms, Double Rooms, Shared Rooms
    Beds: NO Bunkbeds
    Bathrooms: En-suite

    Parking: Free Parking available at the accommodation - please ensure you register you number plate in reception.

  • Breakfast - Cooked Buffet Included

    Packed Lunches - Not Included, we will stop at a local shop / cafe for you to purchase what you wish.

    Evening Meals - Not Included

    Soft Drinks - Tea & Coffee making facilities in the room

    Alcoholic Drinks - Not included. This venue has a bar and only drinks purchased maybe consumed.

    Vegetarian, vegan, and meals made from gluten-free ingredients can be provided. Please select the relevant options during checkout.

  • Travel to and from the meeting location or station pick-up.

    Any extras, excursions, or activities that you may partake in which incur a cost.

    Any food, drinks, or goods you choose to purchase at any shops, restaurants, pubs, or cafés visited.

 

Kits List: Walking Holiday / Weekend
FAQ’s: Answers to our most common questions

Travel insurance: We recommend having insurance to cover, at a minimum: cancellation and curtailment, medical and emergency expenses (including repatriation), personal accident, and injury and death.

About our mileage ranges

We list distances as a 2-mile range because GPS watches, apps and route planners all show different results. Our mileage is based on OS Maps Explorer online, but in a group it’s normal for each person to record different figures. Listing a range gives a fairer picture of the day.

Booking FAQ’s

Can I book with a deposit?

Yes, if the trip is more than 12 weeks away you can secure your place with a 20% deposit. The balance is due no later than 10 weeks before travel. You will receive a series of reminder emails when the balance is due. If the trip is less than 12 weeks away, the full balance is due at the time of booking.

Can I pay in instalments?

Yes – although our system doesn't have a function to do this automatically. If you'd like to split your payments, simply email us (hello@largeoutdoors.com) when you'd like to make a payment. Please don't forget to tell us how much you'd like to pay off the balance and your order number. We'll then send you an email with a secure online payment link.

 

Booking Calendar!

 

The North Wessex Downs National Landscape

The North Wessex Downs is a designated National Landscape, celebrated for its rolling chalk downs, ancient woodlands, and quintessentially English villages. This protected area stretches across several counties, including Wiltshire, Hampshire, Berkshire, and Oxfordshire, and offers a diverse mix of natural beauty and cultural heritage.

The landscape is characterised by its sweeping views, hidden valleys, and historical landmarks, making it an ideal destination for walkers seeking both tranquillity and discovery. From picturesque market towns like Marlborough to the winding Kennet and Avon Canal, the North Wessex Downs provides a backdrop steeped in charm and serenity. Whether you're exploring open chalk grasslands, shaded woodland paths, or ridge-top trails, this is a region that invites you to slow down and connect with nature.

 

This map is provided for guidance regarding the general location. For detailed meeting information, please refer to the 'Meeting Time & Location' section.