Swindon walk named region's best for accessibility

By Barrie Hudson - 10 September 2026

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The Mouldon Hill Lake Circular near Swindon is the best accessible walk in the South West, and fourth best in the UK.


It scored 68.85 points out of 100 following research by care home provider Lovett Care, which ranked 289 walking routes according to factors that decide whether a walk is genuinely doable for someone with limited mobility.
The survey also asked how far each walk went, how much climbing it involved, how long it took, whether it followed an easy loop back to the start, how highly walkers rated it, how scenic it was, the variety of features along the way and whether dogs were welcome. 
Dawn Collett, Deputy Managing Director at Lovett Care, said: "We know that a breath of fresh air and a change of scenery can work wonders for the health and happiness of our residents.
"By utilising extensive trail data, we've identified these ten 'gold standard' walks that ensure that anyone across the country, including those using wheelchairs or walking aids, can enjoy nature safely alongside their loved ones."
At just 0.8km, the walk was rated as packing in more to see per mile than almost any route in the country.
Wiltshire and Devon lead the region, from the Swindon area's lakes to the forests around Exeter.
As the walking season turns and the daylight starts to shorten, the routes at the top of the table share the features that matter most in autumn, including short distances, little climbing, well-made paths and an easy loop back to the start.
Wiltshire also claims the region's second spot. Nightingale Wood, again near Swindon (46th nationally, scoring 61.91), is rated a peaceful 2.6km woodland loop with a 4.6-star rating, and it welcomes dogs.
 

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