South of Swindon lies an excellent network of cycle paths through the Wiltshire countryside. The surfaces aren’t always smooth, but if you have a hybrid or mountain bike, you’ll find much to enjoy here.

Marlborough is just 12 miles from the town centre down a well-established railway path, signposted as NCN route 45 and 482. Pass Coate Water and cross the M4 on the footbridge before descending to Chiseldon. The railway path starts here and continues all the way to Marlborough, where there are, of course, plenty of cafés and pubs for lunch.

You can return the same way, but if you’re feeling more energetic, head west out of Marlborough on one of the two NCN routes (254 or, for a longer journey, 403). These meet up with NCN 45, a spectacular if occasionally rough track over the Downs. It returns you to Chiseldon for an easy ride back to Swindon.