If you love a good, long ramble in the crisp autumn air, there’s no other setting that puts a warm spring in your step quite like the section of the historic Great West Way running through the county of Wiltshire, England. Self-guided expeditions are ideal for travelers who like to linger over discoveries, move at their own pace and get a true sense of a destination. Journeys can be a blend of walking, boating, cycling, driving and train travel — whatever most appeals to your schedule and desires.

While the entire Great West Way route stretches across the country from London to Bristol, focusing on the section passing through Wiltshire allows for exploration of ancient sites like Stonehenge and the mysterious megalithic standing stones encircling the village of Avebury, along with the fascinating historic towns of Salisbury and the medieval market town of Devizes.

In the picturesque town of Bradford-on-Avon, which rests on the threshold of the Cotswolds fronting the winding River Avon, you’ll find a collection of weaver’s cottages and 19^th-century structures that once housed cloth and textile mills. Close to Stonehenge and Avebury, Devizes offers a selection of yearly events, including art and food festivals, plus the International Street Festival. In Salisbury, stop in at the city’s famous 13^th-century cathedral — home to Britain’s tallest spire and Europe’s oldest working clocktower — for a tour of the roof spaces and to view the original Magna Carta document.

Walk the village paths and byways in Royal Wootton Bassett and Cricklade, then explore the small market town of Swindon, mentioned in the Domesday Book. Shop local stores, visit the STEAM Museum and Museum of Computing, or take a break to relax with the butterflies at Studley Grange. Along the way, take breaks at quaint tea rooms and local pubs and relax in tranquil parks and gardens.

Sample itineraries, maps and a personal travel planner are available on the Great West Way website to help you customize and organize your route and choose the type of lodging you prefer — whether that’s a luxury boutique hotel or a cozy period inn. Don’t forget to pack rain gear and comfy walking shoes.