Footpath access improvements at Chisbury

Date: March 2026

Over a number of years Bedwyn Footpaths Group have replaced all the old stiles in Great Bedwyn with the more accessible option of gates but in March we were working over the border, busy removing old wooden stiles and installing replacement gates in the parish of Little Bedwyn this time, or more precisely, at Chisbury.

The purchase of footpath gates was funded by a DEFRA Access for All grant from the North Wessex Downs National Landscape. Seven stiles were removed and gates installed in their place by Bedwyn Footpaths Group volunteers, aided and supervised by our Wiltshire Countryside Access Officer. Volunteers from the footpaths group worked hard, and surprisingly cheerfully, to install the gates in some challenging heavy ground. Landowners in Chisbury supported and facilitated the installation and the Forestry Commission cleared the way through Heron’s Point.

Where security of the livestock is paramount, kissing gates were installed but where possible the gates are standard self-closing pedestrian gates. The route along which the new gates lie is a footpath from Chisbury to Heron’s Point wood. The Pewsey Vale Circular Way, a long-distance walking route, passes close by along Monk’s Lane and through Chisbury. https://www.visitpewseyvale.co.uk/pewsey-vale-circular-way/

When walking in this area please be aware that cattle and horses may be grazing in the fields, and chickens too, so dogs need to be kept close on a lead. If you encounter a large herd and wish to avoid them, there is other alternative route around the wood that you could follow instead. The gates all self-close but always follow the countryside code and check that gates are closed securely behind you.