Slaughterford

Location: Slaughterford, Bybrook Valley, Wiltshire (near Box and Colerne) Approximate Postcode for Parking: SN14 (Slaughterford is a small village, parking is limited – see below) Known for: Picturesque Bybrook Valley setting, beautiful woodland walks, tranquil atmosphere, and historic paper mills.

Perfect for: Dogs and owners who love exploring enchanting woodlands, meandering riverside paths, and discovering hidden valleys. Ideal for those seeking peaceful walks with a touch of local history.

Nestled in the beautiful Bybrook Valley on the southern edge of the Cotswolds, the small and charming village of Slaughterford is a gateway to some delightful dog walking country. Surrounded by steep wooded valleys and the meandering Bybrook River, it offers a peaceful escape with a variety of scenic trails.

The Walks:

Slaughterford is an excellent starting point for several circular walks that showcase the beauty of the Bybrook Valley and its surrounding woodlands. Expect:

• Riverside Paths: Enjoy picturesque walks along the banks of the Bybrook River. These paths can sometimes be muddy and uneven but offer lovely views and sounds of the flowing water.
• Woodland Exploration: The area is rich in ancient woodland, including Colerne Park and Monkswell Wood.These offer a canopy of trees, diverse flora (look for bluebells and wild garlic in spring), and a network of trails to explore. Paths here can be steep and muddy in places.
   
• Valley Views: As you climb out of the valley on some routes, you'll be rewarded with lovely views across the Wiltshire countryside.
• Historic Interest: The Bybrook Valley was once home to several paper mills, and remnants of this industrial heritage can sometimes be spotted along the river. Routes may also touch on sections of old Roman roads.

Walks can range from shorter 2-3 mile circuits focusing on the immediate valley and woods around Slaughterford, to longer 5-7 mile hikes that might take you towards nearby villages like Colerne or Box, or explore more extensively along the Macmillan Way or other local footpaths.

Highlights for You and Your Pooch:

• Tranquil Valley Setting: A peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle.
• Beautiful Woodlands: Perfect for exploring and sniffing out new adventures.
• Riverside Scenery: The gentle sound and sight of the Bybrook River enhance the walks.
• Wildlife Spotting: Keep an eye out for birds, deer, and other woodland creatures.

Facilities:

• Slaughterford itself has very limited facilities. There are no public toilets or shops directly in the village.
• Nearby Pubs: The White Hart in Ford (a short distance away, further down the Bybrook Valley) is a well-known pub that is often dog-friendly. Nearby villages like Box and Colerne also have pubs and cafes that may welcome dogs (check in advance).
   

Overall:

Slaughterford offers a wonderfully scenic and tranquil setting for dog walks in Wiltshire. If you're prepared for potentially muddy paths, some hills, and limited local facilities, you and your dog will be rewarded with beautiful woodland and riverside trails in a truly picturesque corner of the county. Due to limited parking, consider visiting during quieter times or exploring alternative starting points.

Image: © Copyright Chris Allen and licensed for reuse under this Creative Commons Licence.