There are plenty of different ways to take in the picturesque countryside of Wiltshire, so get out of your car and into the fresh air to experience the county at its best.

...by barge

Wessex Narrowboats are specialists for a tranquil bargain narrowboat holiday on the historic Kennet and Avon Canal.

Based at a modern marina and boatyard, in Hilperton, near Trowbridge, dedicated and friendly staff offer a hire fleet of modern, well-equipped, canal holiday narrowboats (weekly and short break hire), ranging in size from two to 12 berths. The company also has two 30ft narrowboats which are hired out by the day. The canal and locality offer many amenities and places to see and there are plenty of waterside pubs to stop off at too.

Alvechurch Boat Centres Ltd, Hilperton Marina, Hammond Way, Hilperton, Trowbridge, tel: (01225) 765243.

Open: 9am-5pm seven days a week.

...on horseback

There are 1,013 miles of bridleways throughout Wiltshire taking you through some gorgeous countryside, so if you want to explore the county on horseback there is plenty of opportunity.

The White Horse Trekking Centre lies in the beautiful Wylye Valley between the open spaces of Salisbury Plain and the woods of the Great Ridge, providing the ideal setting for riding bridleways, unspoilt plain and ancient woodland

The centre is BHS approved, open all year round and offers riding and instruction for individuals and groups, from the young novice to the experienced rider.

White Horse Trekking Centre, Codford, Warminster, tel: (01985) 850395.

...on foot or by bike

Wiltshire has more than 7,500 paths for walkers and cyclists to explore. Whether you choose a gentle stroll or want a more challenging route, there is a network of footpaths for everyone. Walking and cycling in Wiltshire's peaceful, glorious countryside will show you rural England at its very best.

Much of Wiltshire is designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and one of the best ways to explore is on foot. Prehistoric sites such as Stonehenge and Avebury, and the famous White Horse figures that have been cut into the hillsides exposing the chalk beneath, provide examples of Wiltshire's wonderful landscape.