The best walks and hikes around Newtown
4.6
(733)
5,683
hikers
409
hikes
Hiking around Newtown offers routes across a landscape of open commons, dense woodlands, and the rolling hills of the North Wessex Downs. The area provides a network of trails through varied terrain, including former airfields and protected nature reserves. These routes feature a mix of forested paths and open fields, suitable for different types of hikes.
Best hiking trails around Newtown
- The most popular hiking route is Greenham Common Control Tower – Crookham Common loop from Bishops Green, a…
Last updated: July 3, 2026
5.0
(10)
122
hikers
6.96km
01:46
10m
10m
Moderate hike. Great for any fitness level. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.8
(10)
31
hikers
9.87km
02:38
110m
110m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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4.7
(3)
9
hikers
3.50km
00:55
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2.69km
00:42
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(5)
74
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Not only are these old Cold War Cruise missile bunkers but Star Wars used them in the Force Awakens film as the rebel base
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Win win walk - not too muddy, and a cafe. Happy teenagers.
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Disused bunkers that once were home to the USA mobile nuclear missile deterrent - now more famous for being a filming location for the 2015 film Star Wars: The Force Awakens and the 2017 film Star Wars: The Last Jedi.
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Yellow Route around Greenham and Crookham Commons is straightforward, mostly flat, and accessible for various ages and fitness levels. Be aware of livestock along the way, best to keep pups on a lead.
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A very lovely church. Not as old as it looks but worth a visit. Check out the memorials inside the church.
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This is a great place to stop - but worth checking the opening times. It’s a National Trust site so easy to do.
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Crookham Common is an area of heathland and woodland located in Hampshire near Newbury. Discover a variety of plant, animal, and bird species as you make your way around a gravel path that loops the common.
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Greenham Common is a beautiful nature reserve located in Hampshire near Newbury. The reserve was once a Royal Air Force base, it was also the site of a peace camp used to protest against the Cold War.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are there around Newtown?
There is a wide selection of routes to explore, with over 400 hiking trails in the area. These range from short, easy walks to more demanding day hikes, ensuring there's something for every skill level.
What do other hikers think of the trails in Newtown?
The trails are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 stars. Hikers often praise the mix of open commons and quiet woodland paths found throughout the region.
Are there any easy, family-friendly hikes in the area?
Yes, there are many options suitable for families. A great choice is The Chase forest loop — North Wessex Downs. It's a short, relatively flat walk through pleasant woodland, making it ideal for hikers of all ages.
What's a good trail for a beginner?
For those new to hiking, the Penwood Forest loop — North Wessex Downs is an excellent starting point. It's a short 2.2-mile (3.5 km) trail on easy terrain that can typically be completed in under an hour.
Are there any more challenging hikes available?
Yes, for a more challenging hike, consider the Burghclere & Windsbolts Hill Plantation loop. This moderate route covers over 6 miles (9.9 km) and includes some gentle but noticeable elevation changes through woodland and fields.
Are dogs allowed on the trails?
Dogs are generally welcome on the public footpaths around Newtown, including the trails across Greenham and Crookham Commons. However, you may encounter areas with livestock, so it's always best to keep your dog on a lead in these situations.
Are most of the recommended hikes circular loops?
Yes, many of the popular trails in the area are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location without retracing your steps. This makes logistics for parking and transport much simpler.
What kind of scenery can I expect on the trails?
The landscape is characterized by a mix of vast, open commons like Greenham and Crookham, and quiet, dense woodlands within the North Wessex Downs. You'll hike through a variety of environments, from wide-open former airfields to sheltered forest tracks.
What is the best footwear for hiking around Newtown?
Sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots are recommended. While many paths are well-maintained, some woodland tracks and field edges can become muddy and uneven, especially after rain. Good grip and ankle support will make your hike more comfortable.
Is there parking available at the trailheads?
Many popular trailheads, such as the one near the Greenham Common Control Tower, offer parking. However, smaller trails may rely on limited roadside parking. It's a good idea to arrive early on weekends to secure a spot.
Are the trails in Newtown free to access?
Yes, the vast majority of hiking trails and public rights of way around Newtown, including those on the commons and in the North Wessex Downs, are free to access for walkers.
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