Two Dogs and an Awning

Category: Wiltshire

  • Milestones and Bunkers

    Milestones and Bunkers

    Like so many people I find the winter months a gradual drain on my mood.  In years gone by when I commuted to London for work we headed to Lanzarote for a couple of weeks winter sunshine to lift my spirits.  It is over ten year since we did that and increasingly the lack of daylight and dull skies wear me down and I lose my bounce.

    Spending time out walking helps lift my spirits, but during the winter there is always a spell when each walk is a trudge through the mud, or I am heading into driving rain.  My mood is not helped by having Raynaud’s disease meaning that in colder weather my fingers and toes turn numb making even simple tasks very difficult.

    Most of my winter walking is a solitary pastime. Lynnie is occasionally tempted to join me but apart from that and the odd day out with walking buddies I am on my own with Crosby.  I like walking on my own, but there are times when the company of others perks up a walk.

    Today I am out with my walking buddies Mandy, Nigel and Gary.  We are going to have a jamabout around Grovely Wood and as luck would have it we are forecast a bright day once the morning mist has lifted.  

    Our starting point is a parking area besides a drove at the west end of the woods (Grid Ref: SU007347).  We set off along the drove heading in a south-easterly direction.  It is a chilly start to the day but the sky is clear and we have a good view across the valley with the fog hanging below us.

    This track is an ancient drove known as Ox Drove, a common term in this area for a track which was used to drive cattle to market.  This particular route linked Chicklade and Wilton and we soon encounter an old milestone sitting to the left of the track.  It is dated 1759 and indicates that we are 9 miles from Sarum, the old name for Salisbury.

    It is a cracking morning and the frost still lies on the ground as we head along the drove.

    Stopping to take in the view behind us I spot a stunning fog bow.  This is similar to a rainbow, but is created by the sun interacting with water droplets in the fog.  I cannot recall seeing one before.

    The Ox Drove we are following is also part of the Monarch’s Way, a long distance walking route retracing the journey made by Charles II after the battle of Worcester.  The 615-mile way starts from Worcester and after a convoluted route reaches the Dorset coast and then heads east to finally end at Shoreham-on-Sea. 

    At a junction with Fir Drove we stay with the Ox Drove and Monarch’s Way to head uphill in an easterly direction.

    At a junction of tracks just before West Thornhills copse we leave the Monarch’s Way, which forks to the left.  We stay on Ox Drove forking right to pass the copse and carry on to reach East Thornhills.

    The track now descends to a junction of paths and a minor road.  There is a small parking area here and another milestone beside the path bears the inscription “VI Miles from Sarum 1750” .

    We continue east on the Ox Drove, ascending again we get fine views across to Cranborne Chase with the fog still lingering in the valley to the south.

    Just before reaching a junction of paths we pass another milestone.  The inscription on this stone is difficult to make out, apparently it said “V Miles to Sarum 1750”.

    At the junction of paths we continue straight on towards Ugford Red Buildings.

    At a junction of paths by the farm buildings we turn left and keep left as the path forks, this takes us along a line of attractive beech trees. 

    At a junction of paths we turn right and then after a couple of hundred yards take a left along the wide track called First Broad Drive.

    After 500 yards, shortly before the Grim’s Ditch joins the drove, we turn left into the trees to visit the Handsel Sisters.  These are ancient beech trees within this section of pine woodland.

    The Handsel sisters were born in Denmark in the 1700’s and moved to the Wilton area.  Soon after they arrived an outbreak of smallpox claimed 136 lives.  Locals were convinced the sisters were responsible for the deaths and they were accused of witchcraft and an alliance with the devil.  Without an official hearing they were taken to Grovely Woods and bludgeoned to death.  They were then buried some distance apart to stop them conspiring against their murderers.

    There are conflicting tales about the origins of the beech trees, one is that they were planted to mark the graves as a warning to others who might consider practicing witchcraft.  The other that the trees grew on top of the unmarked graves as a reminder to locals of their murders.

    Of the four original trees three remain.  The largest of the trees is strewn with offerings to the sisters.  There are reported sightings of the ghosts of the sisters in this area of woodland and pages on the internet dedicated to the spooky goings on here.  I am not sure what to believe, but the trees have grown in a very strange way and there is certainly a feel about this area that makes me slightly uneasy.

    Having visited the trees we make our way back to First Broad Drive and follow this heading west.  Shafts of sunlight are shining through the trees giving a dramatic effect.

    It is very pleasant walking along the wide track feeling the warmth of the sun.  This is just the sort of thing to lift the spirits, walking with friends in cracking woodland in the sunshine!

    At a crossing of tracks close to Grovely Lodge we continue straight on to join Second Broad Drive.  We decide to take advantage of the sunshine and stop besides the track for some lunch.  

    We don’t hang about too long because despite the sun it soon feels chilly when you are inactive.  Continuing along Second Broad Drive we pass Four Sisters Copse and then leave the main track turning right to follow a path through the trees heading northwest towards the Little Langford Down Nature Reserve.  Like much of Grovely Wood this is open access land so there are no way-markers and we take care to ensure we skirt the top of a valley before turning north through Langford Woods.

    This is a stunning section of woodland maintained as a nature reserve by the Wiltshire Wildlife Trust.  We stay with a broad ride through the trees to reach the northern end of Langford Woods where there is a barbed wire fence.  This marks the edge of the access land.  Here we make a brief excursion into the field to visit the Ordnance Survey trig pillar on the ramparts of Grovely Castle Iron Age hill fort.

    Back in the woods we retrace our steps through the nature reserve, this time when we reach the top of the valley we fork right on a ride passing an area marked on the map as Powten Stone.  Despite searches over many years by many people the actual location of the stone is unknown but it still justifies being recorded on the map.

    We rejoin the Second Broad Drive and turn right to head west.  During the Second World War these woods played an important role as a storage location for ordnance.  As a result the old Roman Road which we are now walking along was paved to allow easy access for military vehicles.

    Apparently bombs were stored in the woods and fuses and other volatile munitions were stored in hundreds of bunkers.  A couple of these bunkers still remain and one is located by the track, it is easy to identify because someone has sprayed ‘Bunker” by the entrance.

    We stop to have a peek inside, I am not sure I would have wanted to be in such a confined space with volatile ordnance.

    Our route continues along Second Broad Drive, it is getting late in the afternoon and the sun has lost its warmth and there is a definite chill to the air.

    We keep our eyes peeled for a second bunker besides the track, this one is not so easy to find because it is overgrown.  This one has been bricked up presumably to prevent it from being damaged.

    We stay with Second Broad Drive until we reach the edge of the woods, here we turn left besides a barn and follow a track along the northern edge of the wood to reach a minor road.  We turn left to walk through Dinton Beeches and return to our starting point.

    We have covered over thirteen and half miles and it has been a cracking walk.  The sunshine and company of friends has gone a long way to lifting my spirits.  Roll on spring!

    You can view this 13.5 mile walk on OS Maps and download the GPX File Here

    To follow this walk you will need Ordnance Survey Outdoor Explorer Map OS 130 Salisbury & Stonehenge 

    13th January 2022

    © Two Dogs and an Awning (2022)

    All information on this site is provided free of charge and in good faith and no liability is accepted in respect of damage, loss or injury which might result from it.  To the best of my knowledge the routes are entirely on public rights of way or within areas that are open for public access.
    Walking can be hazardous and is done entirely at your own risk.  It is your responsibility to check your route and navigate using a map and compass.

  • Wiltshire’s Thankful Village

    Wiltshire’s Thankful Village

    It is taking me a while but I am gradually bagging the Ordnance Survey trig pillars in Wiltshire. I have yet to work out how many there are, but I know a few sit on Ministry of Defence Land with limited or no access, so getting them all is unlikely.  There are also a few others where access might prove difficult, so for the time being I am going for those that are easy to get.  Today I have my sights set on a couple more and I am joined on my jaunt by my walking buddy Mandy.

    The starting point for our walk is the village of Stapleford, just off of the busy A36 in the Wylye Valley.   We start from the parking area in the village just past the village church (Grid Ref SU070373).  From here we walk back along the road to the visit St Mary’s Church.

    On my walks I frequently pop into churches to admire the architecture rather than the spiritual aspect.  For me it is usually a cursory glance, but Mandy is more into churches so we spend time having a good look inside.  Immediately I am glad we have as there are many interesting features in this church.  Behind the 12th century font in a window is a notice explaining that Stapleford is a Thankful Village.

    During my walks I have stumbled on a few Thankful Villages, these are villages where residents served in the First World War and all returned.  The exact number of “Thankful Villages” is unclear.  In 1930 the writer Arthur Lee identified thirty-two such villages and then later research in 2013 identified fifty-three villages.  Neither list contains any Wiltshire Village.

    However, the notice says that Stapleford is the only “Thankful Village” in Wiltshire and lists the names of nine men who fought in the so called “Great War”.  However, there is a caveat in the notice saying it is unclear exactly how many men from the village went to fight in the War and how many returned.

    I have driven along the A36 passing the edge of Stapleford hundreds of times, but I am sorry to say that I have never ventured into this attractive village.  Along with being a “Thankful Village” apparently it is where, in the summer of 1938, the composer Ralph Vaughan Williams stayed and composed part of his Fifth Symphony.

    Just before reaching a bus stop we turn right into Chapel Lane and then take a footpath between walls and follow the path across a field to reach the A36.  After carefully crossing this busy road we turn right and then take a footpath on the left between the Petrol Station and the Pelican Bridge. This path soon leads us to meadows besides the River Wylye.

    The path takes us through fields to cross the river at Kingsmead Bridge.

    Over the bridge we continue to a road and turn right.  This is a quiet country lane and it is pleasant walking along with good views of the edge of Cranbourne Chase to our left.

    After just over a mile on the road we reach a junction at the edge of Little Langford.  Here we turn right and cross the railway line and then take a path on the left heading towards the church of St Nicholas.  This is an attractive small church originally dating from the 12th century and the interior was refurbished in 1864.  

    The church is locked but there’s plenty to see on the outside as the walls are littered with interesting stone carvings.

    From the church we continue on a footpath taking us through a pasture field to join a road which we follow for half a mile to reach Hanging Langford where we pass the village hall and continue along the road for a further two miles to reach Wylye.  

    In this attractive village we turn right opposite the old Chapel and continue through the village to reach St Mary’s church.

    There are a number of interesting features in this church but I am drawn to the notice explaining the background to the Popjay Tomb. This stands opposite the south porch and is an ornate tomb inside railings. According to the story, an 18th century local man by the name of Popjay was convicted of crimes and transported to Australia. When he eventually returned to Wylye it was in a fine carriage, and he was dressed with all the trappings of great wealth.  Popjay lodged at the Bell Inn and enquired after his mother and sister. He was dismayed to find that in his absence both had died and been buried in pauper’s graves. He ordered an elaborate tomb and had his relatives reburied.  But when the bills arrived for the work on the tomb Popjay disappeared, leaving the bills unpaid. He was never seen again, and the rector of St Mary’s had to pay the bills out of his own pocket. In 1840 Rev Francis Baker chose to be buried within the Popjay tomb.

    Leaving the churchyard we turn right and pass the Bell Inn and then the Village Hall.  We soon cross the River Wylye and then take a footpath on the left which passes under the busy A303 and leads into fields besides the river.

    The path leads us to the small village of Fisherton de la Mere where we stop at St Nicholas’ Church.  Dating back to the 14th century the church had substantial rebuilding in the 1830s and 1860s.

    The church is maintained by the Churches Conservation Trust.  Inside is a 12th century font.

    From the church we head west and then at a junction of lanes turn right to reach the A36.  We turn right for a few yards and then cross this busy road to take a track on the opposite side leading to Manor Farm.  The track takes us through farm buildings and then continues north through arable fields.

    This is a long straight track with stunning views over rolling down land.  

    The track turns to the left and then at junction of tracks we go right to continue north to reach a crossing of tracks.  Here we turn left to make a short detour to the Ordnance Survey Trig Pillar on Clay Pit Hill.  This the 286th I have bagged.

    From the trig we return to the crossing of tracks and this time go east on a route which skirts the edge of a copse.

    From the corner of the trees the path heads across a field to reach a track where we turn right and follow it in a south easterly direction across Deptford Down.

    There are soon signs to our left warning of an active airstrip and then a helicopter flies low overhead.  It continues to do a range of manoeuvres, we assume this is part of a training regime rather than a private show for our benefit.

    We stay with this main track heading in a south easterly direction towards Yarnbury Castle.  On reaching the edge of the castle site I take a brief diversion from the public right of way to enter the site of the old hill fort.

    Yarnbury Castle is a large iron age hillfort covering an area of 28.5 acres.  There are panoramic views from the site and well maintained ramparts.  It is now designated as a site of special scientific interest, but from the 1700’s through to 1916 it was the site of the Winterbourne sheep fair.  In 1916 the area was commandeered by the Ministry of Defence as a training area.  Now it is used for pasture.

    On the south eastern side of the hillfort there is an ordnance survey trig pillar, I have passed this on many occasions driving along the nearby A303 but have never noticed it.

    Returning to the track we carry on towards the A303.  This section of the road is a dual carriageway and there is a large refuge area in the centre so we are able to cross comfortably.  However, I would not want to try and get across here in peak holiday season when it is really busy.

    Our route continues along a drove and we soon pass a milestone. The engraving is worn but it is dated 1750 and indicates that it is IX miles to Sarum (Salisbury) and XXVII Miles to Bath.

    Staying with the track we soon start to descend and go straight on at a crossing of tracks.  As we descend there are fine views across the Wylye Valley.

    At the next junction of tracks we turn left, leaving the main track and heading towards Stapleford Castle.  

    Stapleford Castle is a medieval Ring and Bailey castle that sits beside the River Till.  It is not accessible and hard to make out from the path.  On reaching a minor road we continue straight on.  After crossing a bridge over a stream we turn right onto the B3083 and follow this road through the village to reach our starting point in the church car park.

    Our walk has covered 16.5 miles and despite the early section along minor roads it has been a cracking day out exploring a part of the Wiltshire countryside I have not previously visited.

    You can view this 16.5 mile walk on OS Maps and download the GPX File Here 

    To follow my walk you will need Ordnance Survey Explorer Map – 130 – Salisbury & Stonehenge

    22nd October 2021

    © Two Dogs and an Awning (2021)

    All information on this site is provided free of charge and in good faith and no liability is accepted in respect of damage, loss or injury which might result from it.  To the best of my knowledge the routes are entirely on public rights of way or within areas that are open for public access.
    Walking can be hazardous and is done entirely at your own risk.  It is your responsibility to check your route and navigate using a map and compass.

  • Forts, Trigs and Castles

    Forts, Trigs and Castles

    For some time I have had a walk planned to bag a couple of Ordnance Survey trig points near Tisbury but I have never fixed a date to do it.  However, whilst out with my walking buddy Mandy last week we were chatting about areas we would like to visit and she mentioned Old Wardour Castle as a spot she had not walked.  The castle formed part of my planned trig route so today we are out to kill two birds with one stone.  

    We are joined by our friend Gary, who walked with us last week up Melbury Hill and Win Green.  Having sneaked in an extra hill on that walk Gary has taken close interest in today’s route to ensure he has no unwelcome surprises!   

    Today’s starting point is the public car park in Nadder Close, near the village centre (Grid Ref: ST945293).  From the car park we take a footpath that goes between properties and then joins a road where we turn left pass the village football pitch.

    We soon cross the River Nadder and on the far side of the river turn left to join a footpath where we almost immediately fork right to follow the path across the railway line close to the station.  Despite being single track this is a section of the mainline that runs from Exeter to London via Salisbury. 

    From the railway track the path goes uphill and then besides the northern edge of a field.  In the next field it goes diagonally across towards a minor road.

    At the road we turn right and then after a couple of hundred yards take a bridleway on the left and follow this towards Haredene Wood.  The path goes into the woods and then sweeps to the right to reach a junction of paths, here we go to the left and at the next junction of paths go right towards Whitmarsh Wood.

    At a junction of paths in the wood we go right to head uphill and then as we leave the trees turn right along a field margin.  To the south there are views across to Cranborne Chase.

    The path takes us to a track which leads into the Iron Age hill fort of Castle Ditches.  Here we take a diversion from the footpath to visit the sizeable fort which covers over 24 acres.  On the far side of the fort is an Ordnance Survey trig pillar, this is the 264th I have bagged.

    Sitting high on the hill the fort would have commanded a fine view of the surrounding countryside. Now much of the hill is surrounded by trees but towards the north edge some have been felled which gives an indication of how unwanted visitors would have been spied from some distance away.

    Returning to the footpath we turn right and almost immediately head south across a field to reach Swallowcliffe Wood.  At the edge of the wood at a crossing of paths we continue straight on towards Swallowcliffe.

    On entering the village we pass the village hall and then turn right at a junction and then after a short distance turn left at a small village green.  This is the site of the original St Peter’s Church which was built in the 12th century at the lowest point in the village besides the stream.  Unfortunately the church flooded  and by 1840 it was declared unsafe and a new church built higher up.

    Continuing up the hill we pass the Royal Oak pub, apparently this is a former tannery which closed in the mid 1800’s and became a pub.  The pub closed in 2007 but a consortium of villagers purchased it and it reopened in 2015.  In 2020 the pub gained national coverage when the TV presenter James May became a part owner.

    The road now takes us to St Peter’s Church built in 1843 to replace the earlier church lower down in the village.  

    From the church we take a footpath almost opposite and head uphill to Green Close Copse and then drop down into Ansty where we turn left and pass the village pond.  A dam was constructed in the 1700’s to enlarge the pond and it is now an attractive feature in this village.

    Just after the pond is the St James’ Church parts of which are thought to date back to 1210, but most of it was rebuilt and added to in the 14th and 19th century.

    The font in the church apparently dates from the 1100’s.

    After stopping for elevenses on a bench in the churchyard we resume our walk by returning past the pond and then turn left on a lane signposted to Ansty Coombe.  We soon pass the former Maypole Inn which closed in the 1990’s and is now a private residence. 

    This lane goes steadily uphill and we ignore two lanes on the right, then shortly after the second we take a footpath on the right,  Almost immediately at a fork in the path we go left and continue uphill into Twelve Acre Copse.  In the trees the path continues uphill to reach a track where we turn left.

    Now the path continues through the trees and we go straight on at a junction of paths and follow a fenced path towards Old Wardour Castle.

    The path leads into woods and descends towards the castle.  We get the occasional glimpse of the ruined structure as we descend.  

    In 1393 King John granted permission to Baron Lovell for the construction of a castle here.  The Lovell family fell after supporting the Lancastrian’s in the War of the Roses and the castle was confiscated in 1461 and changed hands a few times before being purchased in 1544 by Sir Thomas Arundell.  He was executed for treason in 1552 and the castle confiscated.  However his son Sir Matthew Arundell regained the castle in 1570.  

    During the English Civil War the Arundell’s were Royalists and Thomas Arundell supported the King and left his wife and a 25 man garrison to defend the castle.  On 2nd May 1643 the Parliamentarian Sir Edward Hungerford arrived with 1,300 men and demanded entry to search for Royalists. Lady Blanche Arundell refused entry so a five day siege ensued which caused significant damage to the castle.  Eventually Lady Arundell surrendered but by this time the castle was inhabitable.

    I have not been here for over fifty-five years and have little recollection of the site apart from playing around parts of the ruins.  The site is now managed by English Heritage and not a lot can been see without paying the entrance fee.  We take a footpath going around a wall beside a lake.

    The path goes around the lake and then at a junction of paths we turn right and follow a path across fields to Wardour Castle.

    This house has an interesting history. It was built in 1776 for the Arundell family with generations living there until 1944.  It was then leased to the Society of Jesus before being taken over in 1956 by the Leonard Cheshire Foundation who used it to house beneficiaries. In 1961 it became the home of Cranborne Chase School and then in 1992 it was sold and converted into flats.

    The footpath goes in front of the house and on reaching a junction of paths we go left heading west towards Westfield Farm.  After crossing a track we go across a field to reach Park Pond and then continue on to Park Gate Farm where we fork left and follow a footpath heading south into Donhead St Andrew.

    At a road junction we go straight over and walk through the village to pass the Forester Pub which is being rethatched.  Originally called the New Inn this building has been a pub since the 17th century.

    At a road junction in the village we turn right to pass St Andrew’s Church which has 12th century origins but over the centuries has had a number of alterations including the rebuilding of the tower in the 1800’s.  Apparently one of the four bells in the tower dates back to the 15th century.  Much to Mandy’s annoyance this church is locked.

    We now continue along the lane and on reaching a footpath on the left take this going through a gate to follow the footpath past a pond.

    At a junction of paths we turn right and head towards Donhead St Mary and enter the village by walking besides an apple orchard of Donhead Apples, apparently this company, set up in 2011, makes award winning cider.  I have never enjoyed drinking cider and whilst living in Taunton witnessed the impact on folk having a night out drinking the apple.

    At a minor road we turn left and then almost immediately right to reach St Mary’s church.  This is another church with 12th century origins and over the centuries it has been significantly enlarged.  After the disappointment of not being able to get into St Andrew’s church Mandy now spots an open door and is keen to visit.

    The font dates back to the 12th century and the Historic England website describes it as drum like in design.

    Continuing our walk we head west through the village and gradually go uphill to a junction of lanes where there is a well house.  Apparently it became derelict and then through the initiative of a couple of people interested in sacred wells work was undertaken to restore the building and the well.

    From the well we take the left fork along a lane called North Down and follow this to pass North Down Farm and then reach a gateway to Castle Rings Iron Age hillfort.  Apparently in 1985 a metal detectorist dug up a hoard of stater coins at this fort and after trying to sell them to the Salisbury and Wiltshire Museum was prosecuted and fined for looting an ancient monument.

    We continue along the road to a junction and then turn right and follow the road signposted towards Semley.  On reaching woodland we join a footpath on the right and follow a path through the trees.  Rather bizarrely there is a discarded boat in this woodland.

    Keeping with the path close to the eastern edge of the woods we reach the Tittle Path Hill Ordnance Survey trig pillar.  Sadly this trig has been subjected to some graffiti, it is a new trig for me bringing my total to 265.

    Continuing along the path through the trees we soon start to descend to a minor road and turn right to Gutch Common.  At a junction we turn left and then at a fork in the lane keep left and follow the lane towards Oysters Farm.  Shortly before reaching the farm we take a bridleway on the right that goes east towards a minor road where we turn left and head north. At a junction we fork right and then at a junction with a B road we cross and join a footpath opposite which heads downhill to cross the River Sem.

    We then cross the railway line and continue along a track to reach a minor road where we turn right to Bratch Farm.

    After the farm buildings we reach a junction and turn left and head uphill and then take a footpath on the right which crosses fields to pass the southern side of Ham Wood.  Then at junction of paths on the edge of Bottom Copse we turn left and head towards Newtown.

    On reaching a road we are chatting away and turn left.  After about half a mile we realise we should have turned right, however, we work out it is now just about the same distance if we continue along the road and pass Pythouse Farm and then turn right to go along a lane at the edge of Pythouse Plantation.  As we reach the entrance to a chicken farm we rejoin the route we should have been on.  There is an Ordnance Survey Trig Pillar just over the fence in the field with the chickens, so it is easy to bag without having to enter the field.

    Our route is now back along the road to reach a junction where we cross and follow a path into White Mead Wood.  Walking through the woods we pass a chap going in the opposite direction.  Mandy engages him in conversation and discovers that he visits the woods regularly to measure the size of an ancient oak tree.  Apparently the tree is over 800-years old.

    We keep our eyes peeled and spot the tree and it is certainly impressive.

    We reach a road and cross to follow a footpath beside Oddford Brook.  Gary has been tracking our walk.  When we set off I said it was going to be an eighteen-mile route.  He has started to get twitchy because we have exceeded that distance and there is still no sign of Tisbury. Last week I told him we were only walking up one hill and then added an ascent of Win Green, so he is worried about how far we will be walking today!

    At the point where Gary was considering calling Lowland Rescue  we reach the outskirts of Tisbury  and follow the roads through the village to reach our starting point.  Our walk has covered twenty-one miles, further than planned but purely due to taking a couple of interesting diversions along the way.

    You can view this 21-mile walk on OS Maps and download the GPX File Here

    To follow our walk you will need Ordnance Survey Outdoor Explorer Map OL118 Shaftesbury & Cranborne Chase

    29th July 2021

    © Two Dogs and an Awning (2021)

    All information on this site is provided free of charge and in good faith and no liability is accepted in respect of damage, loss or injury which might result from it.  To the best of my knowledge the routes are entirely on public rights of way or within areas that are open for public access.
    Walking can be hazardous and is done entirely at your own risk.  It is your responsibility to check your route and navigate using a map and compass

  • Imber Range Perimeter Path

    Imber Range Perimeter Path

    For a while now my walking buddy Mandy and I have been discussing walking the perimeter path around the Imber Range on Salisbury Plain.  It is a long walk of over thirty miles so we have been waiting for a day when the weather forecast is set fair.  I don’t mind walking in the rain, but it is uncomfortable wearing waterproofs for hours on end in the summer.

    We plan to start from Tilshead and are dropped off by Mandy’s husband ,Stuart outside the Rose and Crown Inn (SP3 4RZ) in the centre of the village beside the A360.  The beauty of starting from a pub means there is an opportunity for a pint at the end of the walk.  After walking over thirty miles I will be ready for one!

    Leaving the pub we cross the road and turn left following the pavement besides the A360 and just after passing Ash Tree House take a footpath on the right which leads between properties and then becomes a tree lined path.

    At a junction of paths we turn left and soon reach the Imber Range Perimeter path, here we have the option of going clockwise or anti-clockwise on the circular walk around the range.  We opt to go clockwise so continue to head south on a grassy path.

    On reaching a junction with a track we turn right and head steadily uphill.

    We soon pass the access land around White Barrow and then at a fork in the path go to the right continuing up Copehill Down.  There are a network of military tracks on these downs, but our route is straightforward keeping with the way-markers for the Perimeter path.  On the summit of the Down we make a slight diversion by turning left to visit the Ordnance Survey Trig Pillar on Copehill Down, this is the  254th trig I have bagged.

    Back on the Perimeter path we continue across a junction of footpaths and then pass houses that have been built for training the military.

    Soon we head across another junction of paths and descend into the village of Chitterne.

    On entering the village we turn right along a minor road following the suggested new route of the Perimeter Path which avoids walking besides the B390.

    The lane we are on provides a good view of All Saints Church, parts of which date back to 1450 but most of it was rebuilt in the 1860’s.  We would normally make a diversion to visit the church, but we have a full day’s walking ahead of us so don’t want to delay our progress.

    At a junction of roads we turn left and then after a couple of hundred yards follow the way-markers on the right up a track running alongside old barns and then we keep going steadily uphill back onto the downs.  

    One of the benefits of walking a route like this is there are plenty of way-markers and we stick with these as the path goes over Breakheart Hill and then goes along a track at the boundary of the restricted area.

    Soon we pass Quebec Barn and at a junction of paths keep heading west.  To our right is the Knook Barrow OS trig pillar, it is one I have not bagged, but the red flags are flying on the range so it is not safe to visit.

    The path joins a well-made track and then bends to head downhill towards East Hill Farm.

    On reaching a minor road at East Hill Farm we turn left and follow the road heading towards Heytesbury.  Shortly before reaching Heytesbury House we go right on a path which goes steadily uphill to Cotley Hill Woods.

    After going through the trees we stay with the path over Cotley Hill.

    We are now walking along a ridge heading towards Scratchbury Hill on which sits the Iron Age hillfort of Scratchbury Camp.  After a gradual ascent we reach the camp and turn right to walk along the ramparts.

    After Scratchbury Hill we drop down to a track and then head over Middle Hill.

    Descending from Middle Hill the path leads to a track where we turn right and then soon left to start the steady ascent to the summit of the Battlesbury Hill.  This was the location of another Iron Age hillfort.  The 360 degree views from up here make it a good location for spotting enemies approaching.

    Rather than walk around the ramparts we follow a well-worn path towards the centre of the fort where there is an Ordnance Survey Trig Pillar, my 255th bagged.

    From the hillfort the way-markers direct us downhill to reach a minor road, Sack Hill, where we turn left and walk along the road, soon passing military barracks behind secure fencing.   After the barracks we turn right into Elm Hill and pass the modern St Giles Garrison Church.

    This is not the most attractive of places to walk but we know we will soon be back on the edge of the Plain.  We follow Elm Hill to a junction keeping with the way-markers and turning left to follow a rural lane downhill to the driveway of West Wilts Golf Club.   Our route turns right up the driveway and then forks to the right to follow a path besides a house before heading through trees to reach open countryside overlooking the wonderfully named Kidnappers Hole.

    Apparently this was the site of a chalk pit used in the lime kilns.  I have been unable to find out why it is called Kidnappers Hole, but in researching I did find reports of UFO sightings here in the 1960’s.

    To our left is the West Wilts Golf Course, this is a course I have never played and it is now so long since I last picked up my clubs, I doubt I ever will.

    As well as being the route of the Imber Range Perimeter Path, this is the route of the Wessex Ridgeway, a long distance path travelling 138 miles between Marlborough and Lyme Regis.

    At a junction of tracks we turn to the left and head north to stay with the Imber Range Perimeter Path.  There are cracking views in front of us and we can clearly see the path on the horizon a mile away.  There is a good stretch of downland walking before we get there.

    After passing a barn in a hollow we leave the track to go through a gate on the right following the Imber Range path signs.  The path drops into a hollow and then ascends steeply up a chalk escarpment.  It is a warm day so as we near the top we stop to admire the view behind looking back across where we were twenty minutes ago.

    After a kissing gate we turn right along a well-made track following the Imber Range Path signs.  The route has now joined the Mid Wilts Way, a sixty-eight mile long distance path crossing Wiltshire between the village of Ham, on the Berkshire border, and Mere on the Somerset border.

    We continue in a northerly direction passing a massive chalk quarry.  Permission for this quarry was granted following a ministerial decision in 1947, over the years it has expanded massively.  The chalk extracted fed the nearby cement works in Westbury.

    We pass the perimeter of the quarry and join a path besides the road leading to a car park.  As we proceed we get a good view of the Westbury White Horse.

    There are a group of paragliders on the edge of the escarpment waiting for the correct wind conditions to launch themselves off the side of the hill.  It is a pastime that would not suit me, I am far more comfortable with two feet on the ground.

    Near the car park we take a slight detour on a path to the left which has benches overlooking the valley.  This is a cracking spot for us to have lunch and the nearby toposcope provides details of the points we can see in the distance.

    Refreshed from lunch we return to the track and pass the car park and then turn right to reach the barns of White Horse Farm and then left along a wide stony track.

    We are now over twenty miles into our walk, but still have ten to do.  The track enables us to make good progress and there is no delay in identifying our route.  It is straightforward. We just keep the boundary of the range to our right.  As we head along there are some cracking views.

    The track leads to the entrance road to Imber village.  From the late 1800’s the War Office had been purchasing land on Salisbury Plain for military training.  By 1920 land close to Imber village was being purchased and farms around the village were gradually acquired for military use.

    On the 1st November 1943 the village residents were called to a meeting and informed they had 47 days to move out, the village was required for training for the Allied Invasion of mainland Europe.  All 150 villagers left their homes for what they thought was a temporary move.  Some even left tinned food in cupboards ready for their return.  Unfortunately, they were never allowed to return to their homes apart from a brief annual visit when the Ministry of Defence enables public access.

    Our route continues along a stony track, we are now getting a bit bored of walking on this surface.  It made a pleasant change earlier but is becoming tedious, but at least there are good views to distract us.

    The trail soon heads north towards Coulston Hill and then turns to the east leading us to the Ordnance Survey trig pillar on Stoke Hill, our third trig of the day and my 256th.

    Shortly after the trig we pass another area constructed for the military to practice urban warfare.

    The track heads towards the A360 and shortly before reaching the road we turn right just after passing barns and head south along another track until we reach a way-marker directing us left between fields.  It is good to be walking on grass again.

    At a junction of paths we turn right and follow the path across Lavington Down.

    On reaching a minor road we turn left and walk through trees to pass an impressive, brick water tower apparently this is all that remains of a military camp on this site.

    Emerging from the trees we see Tilshead below us, we have just a mile to do and are both relieved that it is downhill all the way.

    On entering the village we head back to the Rose and Crown and are soon sat in the bar rehydrating on beer.  After thirty-two miles the first does not touch the sides.  We are both pleased to have ticked off this walk, it has been on our list for a while and there is a good sense of achievement in completing it.  My walking app shows that our walking speed averaged 3.2 miles per hour which is not too shabby over such a long distance.

    You can view this 32 mile walk on OS Maps and download the GPX File Here

    To follow my walk, you will need Ordnance Survey Explorer Map -OS Explorer – 130 – Salisbury & Stonehenge; and OS Explorer – 143 – Warminster & Trowbridge

    24th June 2021

    © Two Dogs and an Awning (2021)

    All information on this site is provided free of charge and in good faith and no liability is accepted in respect of damage, loss or injury which might result from it.  To the best of my knowledge the routes are entirely on public rights of way or within areas that are open for public access.
    Walking can be hazardous and is done entirely at your own risk.  It is your responsibility to check your route and navigate using a map and compass.

  • A Cracking Early Morning Walk from Charlton Manor CL

    A Cracking Early Morning Walk from Charlton Manor CL

    We are heading back home today after a great week walking in the Pewsey Vale.  Usually on the day of our departure I take a short early morning walk with Crosby and then get busy packing.  Over the years of caravanning we have worked out how long it takes us to be ready to leave a site and I know if I make an early start I will have plenty of time today to sort things out before our scheduled departure.

    It is another cracking morning as I leave Charlton Manor CL, turning right to walk towards the village.  Soon after crossing the River Avon I take a lane on the right and then after a couple of hundred yards fork left to head uphill on a footpath to reach the Charlton Cat Cafe. This dates from the 1820’s and used to be a pub.  Apparently, it was originally called the Red Lion, but by the 1920’s it had become known locally as the Cat due to the poorly painted lion on its sign, so the name was changed. 

    I cross the A342 to join the track opposite, this is Charlton Drove and I follow it on a long steady ascent.

    The track passes barns and continues on to pass the Charlton Clumps trig pillar.  I have bagged this trig on a number of occasions.  I continue along the lane towards a junction of paths.

    At the junction of tracks I turn right to follow a path besides the edge of the Ministry of Defence danger area.  It was back in 1898 that the army first conducted training exercises on the plain and started acquiring land.  This continued until the 1940’s and now there is about 150 square miles of land with restricted access, or in some parts no access at all because of live firing.  

    It is a cracking morning to be out walking.  My route follows the path keeping the fence for the firing range on my left.

    There are a number of paths on the right which lead downhill into the Vale of Pewsey.  I ignore three paths choosing a path that leads towards Marden Copse.

    The path soon goes steeply downhill with cracking views.

    At the bottom of the hill I join a track and continue heading north towards the A342.  It is a stunning place to be walking, if we were not heading back today I would be thinking about extending my morning walk, but unfortunately I need to take the awning down and pack the car.

    At the A342 I cross and continue along the road heading for Marden.  When this straight road starts to bend to the left I take a track on the right passing a recently converted barn and Marden Cricket Club. I now follow this track heading east.  I cross another track and then reach a minor road where I turn left and in just over a hundred yards I take a turning on the right and follow the path between fields.

    The path leads to a minor road where I continue straight on and then at a junction turn left and then soon take a footpath on the right.  

    As I head along this path I get a good view of the medieval Strip Lynchets field system to my right.

    At a junction of paths I go straight over heading east, soon the Charlton Cat is on my right.

    I keep following the path as it heads towards Charlton St Peter and then in the village turn left to cross the River Avon and return to the caravan site.  It has been worth getting up early to experience such a wonderful morning, I have covered just over 7 miles.  Now it is time for breakfast and a quick pack so we can head home.

    You can view this 7 mile walk on OS Maps and download the GPX File Here

    To follow my walk, you will need Ordnance Survey Maps: OS Explorer Active Map OL130 – Salisbury and Stonehenge

    13th June 2021

    © Two Dogs and an Awning (2021)

    All information on this site is provided free of charge and in good faith and no liability is accepted in respect of damage, loss or injury which might result from it.  To the best of my knowledge the routes are entirely on public rights of way or within areas that are open for public access.
    Walking can be hazardous and is done entirely at your own risk.  It is your responsibility to check your route and navigate using a map and compass.

  • Windmill in the Vale

    Windmill in the Vale

    It is the last full day of our stay at Charlton St Peter so we are making the most of it by walking in  the Vale of Pewsey and taking in a few historic locations.  It is only a short drive from the site to the village of Burbage.

    Our walk starts from a parking area in East Sands Lane besides the village cricket club pitch (Grid Ref: SU 237 611).  To start we walk a few yards along the track and then opposite the gate to the cricket ground we take a footpath on the right which heads in a southerly direction towards the A338.  Initially the path goes along the edge of trees and then crosses a field before heading to the main road.

    On reaching the road we turn left and walk a few yards along the wide verge until we reach a footpath on the right, we cross the road with care and follow the path along the edge of a field.

    At two junctions on the path we keep left until we reach a minor road.  We turn left down the road towards West Grafton and soon pass an electricity sub-station on the right.  Shortly after we take a footpath on the right signposted to East Grafton.

    The path now crosses fields heading towards Manor Farm and then goes through a paddock and besides a spinney to reach East Grafton. 

    We emerge in the village almost opposite St Nicholas’ Church.  It is a warm day so we stop at the bench by the church gate for a drink and then wander in to look at the fine church.

    This relatively modern church opened in 1844 following a campaign for a church in the village.  Apparently the Marquess of Aylesbury was persuaded to give sufficient land to build a Church, parsonage and school.  The style of the design is Romanesque and apparently it has a fine interior, but unfortunately the door is locked so we are unable to see for ourselves.  Instead we content ourselves with looking at the elaborate stonework around the main door.

    From the church we briefly head south along the road and then take a lane on the left which runs besides the edge of the churchyard to reach paddocks.  We go through the paddocks using the stiles and then follow the footpath across arable fields with a view of Wilton Windmill away to our left.

    The footpath reaches a track where we turn right and head south towards electricity pylons.  At a junction on the track we turn left and follow the tree lined path as it heads steadily uphill through shrubland and then crosses an arable field to reach a reservoir with a fine brick structure besides it.  

    The Historic England website says this is a pumphouse for the reservoir that served nearby Wexcombe, however, I have read elsewhere that it was a folly built by William Finch in 1899 and contains two water taps.  Apparently Finch was the person who  installed the water supply for the hamlet.

    We reach a road besides the reservoir and cross to go over a stile into an arable field following the route of the footpath as marked on the map.  This shows that we should go through woodland to reach Wexcombe.  When we reach the far side of the field at the point the path should enter the woodland it is thick with brambles and no sign of any footpath.  After a bit of a curse we follow the fence line to the south to reach a wide gap in the hedge.  Here we turn left and follow the field margin down to the edge of Wexcombe where we turn right on a chalk track.

    This track initially goes steadily uphill but on reaching the escarpment of Wexcombe Down it becomes a steep ascent to tackle on a hot afternoon.

    The benefit of walking up steep chalk hills is that you know there is bound to be a cracking view and this one along the northern edge of Wexcombe Down certainly lives up to expectation.

    It is a relief for both of us when the path levels out and continues heading south with expansive views.  Soon on our left is an Ordnance Survey trig pillar and I make a brief diversion from the track to visit it.  This is the 253rd trig I have bagged.

    Back on the track we continue heading south and soon pass a concrete water tower.  

    Shortly after the tower at a junction of tracks we take a footpath on the left which leads across an arable field heading towards Tidcombe.

    After crossing one field the path joins a track going between fields and continues on to a junction of tracks on the edge of the access land of Tidcombe Down.  We carry straight on along the track as it descends into Tidcombe.  On reaching St Michael’s Church we pop in to have a look around.

    There are parts of this church dating from the 14th century and the tower was added in the 17th century.  Inside I am taken by the font, usually they are elaborate but this one is very basic and apparently dates back to Saxon times. 

    From the church we go north through the village and just after passing The Manor take a footpath on the left which passes woodland and then goes along the edge of fields heading towards Marten.

    Nearing Marten we reach Manor Farm and follow a diversion of the path as it follows around the margins of a wildlife area to reach a minor road.

    On the road we turn right and walk a short distance to a junction where we turn left and walk along the road through Marten.  It is a very warm day for walking and I encourage Lynnie by promising there will be an ice cream van around the corner.  This is a regular promise on a walk and Lynnie knows there is little chance of it coming true.  However, to my surprise and Lynnie’s delight we reach Pickneys Farm and there is a small shop selling refreshments and ice creams!

    After we have both had an ice cream and Crosby has topped up with water we resume our walk down the road to reach a junction with the A338 where we turn left and pass the former Nags Head pub which has been converted into a private house.  Apparently a pub first opened on this site in 1724 and was rebuilt in 1902.  It is a pity to see pubs close, but I imagine trying to run a business here was very difficult.

    We are only on the A338 for a short distance, immediately after passing the former pub we turn right onto a lane heading towards Wilton.  Soon to our right there are good views of the Wilton Windmill.  Apparently this is the only remaining operating windmill in Wiltshire.  It was built in 1821 to replace local mills that had been lost when the Kennet and Avon Canal cut through nearby water meadows. It was used for 100 years until it was abandoned and fell into disrepair.  After a restoration project it fully reopened in 1976 and now welcomes visitors.

    At a junction we go straight over to join a track with a finger post pointing to Crofton Beam Engine.  As the track starts to descend we climb the bank on the left to get a good view of the Beam Engine.  This is a remarkable industrial site which we visited many years ago when our children were small.  It was built in 1807-09 and was used to pump water to the highest point on the Kennet and Avon Canal.

    The building houses a 1812 Boulton & Watt steam powered beam engine which is the oldest working beam engine in the world that is still in its original location.  It survives thanks to the efforts of the Kennet and Avon Canal Trust which purchased the derelict site in 1968 and by 1971 it was fully restored and operating.  Despite it being over thirty years since I visited I can still recall the magic of watching this piece of industrial heritage working.

    We continue down the track to reach the Kennet and Avon Canal and turn left onto the towpath to pass a lock.  We soon reach Wilton Water the reservoir from where water is pumped by the Crofton Beam Engine to top up the canal.

    The beam engine sits on the far side of the canal and we pass it and continue along the towpath heading west, soon passing Crofton Bridge and the Sam Farmer Lock.

    This is a tranquil stretch of the canal and even though it is a sunny Saturday afternoon in June we see very few people as we continue to head west.  Soon we pass the parapets of the disused Andover to Marlborough railway line that crossed the canal until the line was closed in 1970.

    A short distance after we reach Wolfhall Bridge and leave the canal, turning left to follow a track going steadily uphill to Wolfhall Farm.

    At Wolfhall Farm we turn right along the minor road in front of Wolfhall Manor.  This house has a long history dating back to the 11th century and it was here in the 16th century that the then owner Sir John Seymour invited King Henry VIII to stay in 1535.  A year later Seymour’s daughter Jane became Henry’s third wife, just a year later she died in childbirth.

    The building has had many additions over the years and is a combination of Tudor, Georgian and Victorian architecture. Apparently, it has one of the best preserved Tudor sewers in Britain.  Walking by this interesting house there is no sign of its historical significance.

    Reaching a footpath on the left we leave the road and head south besides a field to reach a five way junction of paths, we continue along a made-up track opposite, passing cottages and then reaching the starting point of our walk at the edge of a playing field on the outskirts of Burbage.

    Our walk has covered just over twelve miles in a cracking part of the Vale of Pewsey which is  packed with historical sites.  Now we must get back to Charlton Manor CL and start our preparations for our return home tomorrow.

    You can view this 12 mile walk on OS Maps and download the GPX File Here

    To follow my walk, you will need Ordnance Survey Maps: OS Explorer Active – 157 – Marlborough & Savernake Forest; OS Explorer Active – 131 – Romsey, Andover & Test Valley & OS Explorer Active – 158 – Newbury & Hungerford

    12th June 2021

    © Two Dogs and an Awning (2021)

    All information on this site is provided free of charge and in good faith and no liability is accepted in respect of damage, loss or injury which might result from it.  To the best of my knowledge the routes are entirely on public rights of way or within areas that are open for public access.
    Walking can be hazardous and is done entirely at your own risk.  It is your responsibility to check your route and navigate using a map and compass.

  • Wandering in the Vale of Pewsey

    Wandering in the Vale of Pewsey

    One of the benefits of staying at a site not too far from home is we can still keep in touch with friends and today Mandy a close friend from home has popped up to join Lynnie and I on our walk.  Mandy and I have walked together in the Vale of Pewsey on a number of occasions so we both know the area pretty well but we have not done today’s walk before.

    Leaving the site we turn left to walk up a track following the route of the White Horse Trail. We stay with this long distance path ignoring two paths on the left and then at a fork we stay with the White Horse Trail heading towards Falkner’s Farm.

    After passing the farmyard we cross a minor road and continue along a tarmac lane passing old barns.  We follow the lane to reach St James’ Church, apparently there was a church on this site back in 963, part of the current building dates from the 13th century.  The tower dates from the 15th century and the church underwent a restoration in the 1950’s.

    From the church we head through trees to pass the lakes of Manningford Trout Fishery. According to this fishery’s website it has some of the best trout fishing in the south of England.

    We stay with the White Horse Trail to reach a minor lane which we cross and then in a field of pasture we leave the trail by taking the right fork to follow a footpath along the edge of the field to reach St Peter’s Church in Manningford Bruce.

    This church has elements from the 12th century and was restored in 1882.  We decide to pop in side, it is a fine building. 

    We leave the churchyard via a footpath at the north corner of the graveyard and follow this path besides the walled garden of The Manor.

    The footpath enters a field and then at a junction of paths we turn right back onto the White Horse Trail heading towards a minor road.  After crossing the road we continue on the Trail and then at a junction of footpaths go across a field to visit the church at Manningford Abbots.  Apparently there is no recorded dedication for this church which was rebuilt between 1861-64. 

    From the church we head back across the field to rejoin the White Horse Trail and follow it heading north through woods to pass over a stream and under power lines to reach a converted mill.

    On reaching a minor road we stay with the White Horse Trail and turn left to follow the road past houses and then we take the first right into Dragon Lane.  This heads north away from the village and soon becomes a byway which continues across a railway line and then follows a clear path through fields of salad crops.

    The path reaches a minor road at Swanborough Tump, there is a sarsen stone and a plaque commemorating the history of this site which was the meeting place of Hundred Moot of Swanborough in Saxon Times.  In 871 King Alfred and his brother Ethelred met here on their way to fight the invading Danes and each swore that if either should die in battle the dead man’s children would inherit the lands of their father King Aelthelwulf.

    We cross the road and continue north on the White Horse Trail along a tarmac driveway to Cocklebury Farm.  After the farm the path reaches the ornate Ladies Bridge over the Kennet and Avon canal.  The bridge was built by the canal’s engineer John Rennie in 1808.  The design was at the behest of Susannah Wroughton who lived at Wilcot Manor and the reference to Ladies refers to her and her daughter, also named Susannah.

    We now join the canal towpath and head east towards Wilcot and soon reach Bowden’s Bridge (No.119).

    We continue along the canal to Wilcot Bridge.  Here we leave the towpath to join a minor road running parallel to the canal.  After a few hundred yards the road bends to the left away from the canal and we start to head steadily uphill.  At a junction we go left and then almost immediately right.  Reaching a crossroads we go straight across on a road signposted to Huish and Draycot and soon pass Draycot Farm.  The road bends to the north and we stay with it for a few hundred yards and then as it turns to the right we go straight on along a footpath into a field. 

    After a second gate the path starts to steeply ascend Draycot Hill.  

    At the top of the hill we go through a gate and join the Tan Hill Way and Mid Wilts Way heading west.  This is a cracking hill to walk along with numerous inlets with great contours.  They look spectacular on the map but even better when viewed from above.

    The path is well marked and passes through gates and by a large dew pond.  When Mandy and I walked along this hill last November it was raining but today it is clear and the views are spectacular.

    We take a slight diversion from the Mids Wilts Way to visit Knap Hill, the site of a Neolithic Camp.

    From the top the hill we walk to a gate and through the car park for Walker’s Hill and then cross the road.  We turn left to follow the path to the top of Walker’s Hill and Adam’s Grave Long Barrow.  This is a stunning spot and the views are outstanding, but Crosby prefers to have a rest  while we stop and take in the vista.

    We continue downhill across the access land heading towards Alton Barnes, to our right we get a good view of the Alton Barnes White Horse.  This horse was first cut in 1812 when Robert Pile of Manor Farm in Alton Barnes paid twenty pounds to John Thorne, known as Jack the Painter, to design and cut the horse.  The figure stands on Milk Hill which is the highest hill in Wiltshire at 295 metres and is reported to be the second highest chalk hill in the UK.

    After going through a gate we continue downhill to walk on a path besides the edge of a field with the road to our left.  This is not marked on the map as a path, but is clearly well used and is obviously a permissive path.  It takes us across the road and then continues downhill besides paddocks.  As it nears a junction the path turns to the left and continues besides the road heading towards Alton Priors.  We join the road briefly and then turn right down a lane besides a stunning old thatched barn which is packed with old farm machinery.

    Now we continue down the lane, Village Street, and follow this to a gate with a turnstile beside it.  We enter the field and walk the short distance to All Saints church.  This church dates from the 12th century but it was declared redundant by the Church of England in 1972 and is now in the care of the Churches Conservation Trust. 

    In the churchyard there is a Yew Tree believed to be 1,700 years old.

    From the church we follow a path across a stream and through further turnstile gates.

    We follow the paved footpath across a field of pasture and head towards St Mary’s Church in Alton Barnes.  The two churches are only a few hundred yards apart.  It would appear that the two congregations of Alton Barnes and Alton Priors were separated in 1660.  From the church we head along the lane to reach a minor road where we turn left and follow it into Honeystreet where we join the towpath of the Kennet and Avon Canal and head east.

    I have walked this section of the canal on a number of occasions and noticed a sign into a field to a memorial.  Although off the footpath I assume that the fact it is signed means there is access to the field.  We enter the field and follow the fence line to reach the memorial which is dedicated to Flt Sgt Thomas C Newton and Sgt John A C Wilson, both of the RAFVR, who lost their lives when their Albemarle Bomber V1755 of No 22 HGCU RAF Keevil crashed nearby on 25th October 1944.

    We carry on along the hedge line and return to the towpath.  This is a cracking section of the canal.

    We are only on the canal towpath for a short while, leaving at the next bridge to take a path that heads to the right towards the village of Woodborough.  Reaching the outskirts of the village we leave the lane to enter the churchyard of St Mary Magdalene Church which was built in 1850.

    We leave the church by the main gate and follow the road south through the village, at a junction we turn right and then after a hundred yards take a footpath on the left going towards the railway line.  After crossing the line with care, we continue on a path which soon goes besides paddocks to emerge in Bottlesford close to the Seven Stars pub, we turn right along the lane.

    On reaching a junction we go straight over to walk along Gores Lane which goes between cottages and then reaches fields.  At a junction of paths we turn left and head south, soon crossing  a minor road, Yard’s Lane, before continuing on the way-marked path through fields to reach meadows close to the River Avon.

    At a fork in the path we keep to the right soon arriving at the western edge of Wilsford.  We turn left and follow the road through the village to reach Holy Cross Church, this is the seventh church we have passed on our walk!

    Leaving the church we continue through the village heading east and then on reaching a road junction go south and then after a couple of hundred yards take a bridleway on the left which heads across fields towards Charlton St Peter.  To our right is a fine example of ancient field systems known as Strip Lynchets.

    At a junction of paths we continue straight on with the Charlton Cat tea rooms in front of us.

    This path brings us back into Charlton St Peter where we turn left to cross the River Avon and return to the caravan site.  It has been a cracking walk through the Pewsey Vale with stunning views throughout.  Wiltshire really is a cracking county to walk in.

    You can view this 17 mile walk on OS Maps and download the GPX File Here

    To follow my walk, you will need Ordnance Survey Explorer Map 130 – Salisbury & Stonehenge: and OS Explorer Map 157 – Marlborough & Savernake Forest

    11th June 2021

    © Two Dogs and an Awning (2021)

    All information on this site is provided free of charge and in good faith and no liability is accepted in respect of damage, loss or injury which might result from it.  To the best of my knowledge the routes are entirely on public rights of way or within areas that are open for public access.
    Walking can be hazardous and is done entirely at your own risk.  It is your responsibility to check your route and navigate using a map and compass.

  • Windmill Hill and Avebury from Cherhill

    Windmill Hill and Avebury from Cherhill

    There are days when our planned walk is scuppered even before we start and today seems to be such a day.  I planned today’s walk to start at Avebury from the large National Trust car park in the village.  However, arriving at Avebury I discover the car park closes at 17.00 which I find a bit odd when we are only a few days from the longest day of the year.  I can only assume they don’t want people to visit the famous stone circles in the evening.

    I quickly look at the route of our planned walk for an alternative starting location and identify Cherhill as the best option.  So we set off west along the A4 and then turn into Cherhill and find a parking area outside of the village church.  

    After checking to ensure there are no notices of planned services in the church we head off through the village heading east.  At a road junction we turn left into Park Lane  heading downhill to reach a fork in the lane, we go to the left to continue along the tarmac lane which is shown as a dead end.  Soon we get views across to the Monument and White Horse on Cherhill Hill.

    We stay with the lane to pass barns on a farm and then just before reaching the farmhouse, at a crossing of footpaths, we go right on a path heading north, very soon at a fork in the path we go right to head along the edge of a field with Mount Wood to our left.

    We reach a junction of paths and turn right along a hedge-lined a track heading east to reach a crossing of paths where we turn left onto the route of the White Horse Trail and head north.

    We keep on the White Horse Trail as it heads along the top of Compton Hill ignoring paths on the left which lead off the hill.  At a T-junction of tracks where the White Horse Trail turns left towards Highway we go right and head along a track in a south easterly direction.

    At the next junction of tracks we turn left and follow a track (Yatesbury Lane), as it goes through the edge Yatesbury Withybed.  A withybed was an area of woodland where willow withies, thin rods of willow were cut to be used in basket making, fish traps and a range of other items.  Willow grows fast so the main stump of the tree would be left and the withies harvested every year ensuring a regular crop.

    After passing the withybed we reach a junction of tracks and turn right to head south east and follow a track through open farmland heading towards Windmill Hill in the distance.

    We follow the footpath to Windmill Hill, the site of the largest Neolithic causeway enclosure in Britain .  The site covers 21 acres and was first occupied in 3800 BC which is a very long time ago.  

    It is an amazing site and we are the only people here, whereas nearby Avebury was busy when we drove through earlier today.

    The OS map shows a Boundary Stone on the site and I go off in search of it whilst Lynnie takes in the view.

    The White Horse Trail runs through Windmill Hill and we follow this route heading east.  Away to our right is a good view of Silbury Hill which is the largest artificial prehistoric mound in Europe.  It was built between 2470 and 2350 BC though it’s purpose is unknown.

    As the path descends it leaves the Windmill Hill open access area going through a stunning area of wildflower meadow.

    At a crossing of paths we turn right, to stay with the White Horse Trail, and head across fields towards Avebury.

    On reaching a lane we turn left and wander into Avebury and stop to have a look at St James’ Church.  Much of this church was rebuilt in 1879 but some parts from previous centuries remain, the oldest dates from the 10th century.  We had hoped to look inside but unfortunately it is locked.

    We decide to have a wander around and visit the stone circle, Lynnie is also on the lookout for an ice cream but has no success as most of the shops seem to be closing up.  It seems I was right in my earlier assessment about Avebury. 

    After a good wander about we head out of the village on the route we came in on and at the edge of the village continue along the lane heading west.  This soon becomes a minor road, Bray Street, and passes houses.  At a junction of tracks close to barns and silage clamps we continue straight on along a track.

    We stay with this track as it continues in a westerly direction to reach a minor road on the outskirts of Yatesbury.  Here we turn left and follow the road, The Avenue, and then take a detour along a minor road on the right to visit All Saints Church which has 12th century origins with the tower and nave roof dating back to the 15th century.

    In the graveyard there are a number of Commonwealth War Graves relating to airmen that were based at the nearby RAF Yatesbury which opened in 1916 as a Royal Flying Corps training school.

    Leaving the church we head back to The Avenue and turn right.  When we reach a T-junction we turn right and then after a couple of hundred yards turn left along Juggler’s Lane.  After passing through woodland we pass the redundant hangers of the RAF airfield.  The Flying Training Corps operated for three year from 1916 and then the airfield returned to farmland.  From 1936 the site once more became an airfield and pilot training resumed.  Apparently Guy Gibson who led the “Dambusters Raid” trained here.

    In 1939 the RAF took over the site for the training of wireless operators and this continued until its closure in 1965.  The hangers here are listed but apparently there have been attempts to turn the site into housing.  Not much can be seen from the track but the World War II pillboxes alongside  are evidence of wartime activity.

    Our route is now very straightforward as we stay with this track heading back towards Cherhill, to our left are good views of the Landsdowne Monument on Cherhill Hill. The monument stands at 125 feet high and is a clear landmark.  It was erected in 1845 by the 3rd Marquis of Lansdowne to commemorate his ancestor Sir William Petty (1623-1687) and was designed by Sir Charles Barry, the architect of the Houses of Parliament.  Petty was the son of a cloth maker and studied to become Professor of Anatomy at Oxford.  He served as Physician General in Oliver Cromwell’s Army in Ireland and whilst there reportedly conducted the first land survey of the Country.  After the restoration of the Monarchy he was appointed a Commissioner of the Royal Navy by Charles II.  He was a founding member of the Royal Society and accumulated great wealth.

    The track leads to the outskirts of the village and we retrace or steps back to the church car park.  Our wander about has covered just over 14 miles and we have walked some interesting tracks with the stand out feature  being the stunning wildflower meadow near Windmill Hill.

    You can view this 14 mile walk on OS Maps and download the GPX File Here

    To follow my walk, you will need Ordnance Survey Explorer Map 157 – Marlborough & Savernake Forest

    10th June 2021

    © Two Dogs and an Awning (2021)

    All information on this site is provided free of charge and in good faith and no liability is accepted in respect of damage, loss or injury which might result from it.  To the best of my knowledge the routes are entirely on public rights of way or within areas that are open for public access.
    Walking can be hazardous and is done entirely at your own risk.  It is your responsibility to check your route and navigate using a map and compass.

  • Wootton Rivers and Martinsell Hill

    Wootton Rivers and Martinsell Hill

    Overgrown and poorly maintained footpaths marred our walk yesterday and I am not keen to repeat the experience so have planned a walk in an area I know will be hassle free.  It will combine a section of the Kennet and Avon Canal and also take us to the stunning Martinsell Hill.

    The starting point for our walk is the free car park in the centre of Pewsey off Goddard Road (Grid Ref: SU162601).  Leaving the car park we walk back to the A345 the main road through Pewsey and turn right by the Post Office and follow the road as it goes through the village and when it bends to the right we turn left into Church Lane.   

    We soon cross the River Avon and then follow a footpath skirting the grounds of Offices and follow this past Pewsey Vale football ground to reach Eastern Lane.  Here we turn right and then very soon reach Ball Lane where turn left into Ball Road and head north to reach a junction with a fine old lamp post and signpost. 

    Here we turn right and then very soon meet a mini roundabout where we turn left into Hollybush Lane.  We are on the route of the White Horse Trail and at a fork in the road go right where Hollybush Lane continues along a single track lane.  After going under a railway bridge we continue past cottages.  Here we stay with the White Horse Trail as it heads steadily downhill on a path leading towards a footbridge over the River Avon.

    After crossing the river we are very soon at Pains Bridge where we take the footpath on the right to join the towpath of the Kennet and Avon Canal.  We have walked many sections of this canal, but this is the first time on this section.

    It is a cracking afternoon to be walking along the canal and this is a very quiet length of towpath.  As we walk along we spot a World War II pillbox in a field on the opposite side of the canal.  This is one of a series of such boxes built along the edge of the canal to form the GHQ Blue Line a section of the General Headquarters Line which compartmentalised the Country to thwart the expected German Invasion.

    The next bridge we reach is the Milkhouse Water Bridge (No.112) which we pass under and continue on the towpath through the open countryside. 

    I enjoy walking on canal towpaths and find the engineering involved in constructing these waterways very interesting.  Lynnie is less keen, especially if we spend hours walking along them, however, she does enjoy walking along the level path with no hills to climb.  Although, I have planned a bit of that for later on.

    After around two miles on the towpath we reach Wootton Rivers Bridge and Lock.  Here we cross the bridge to walk into the village.

    It has turned into a very hot day and on reaching St Andrew’s Church we look for a bench in the shade to stop for lunch.  This church was rebuilt in 1860 and the steeple has a three faced clock which was built in 1911 to commemorate the coronation of King George V.

    Refreshed we resume our walk and continue through the village heading north to pass the Royal Oak pub.

    We leave the road at a fork to take a footpath along a track to the left of a thatched cottage.

    The track soon starts to head uphill between fields.

    On reaching the top of the track we turn right to take a footpath that skirts along the southern edge of the field.

    On joining another track we turn left to walk uphill to a junction with a tree lined track, Mud Lane, here we turn left and follow the lane along the top of the ridge.

    At this time of the year there is not much mud in Mud Lane, however, a couple of areas still remain a bit sticky so it is easy to see how it acquired it’s name.  We stay with the lane to reach a minor road and then cross to go through a car park to enter the open access land of Martinsell Hill.  

    This is a stunning spot and although we can wander anywhere we stay with the route of the Mid Wilts Way.  This 68-mile route crosses the County from the Berkshire border at Ham, near Hungerford and ends at Mere, close to the Dorset border.  It is a walk that I have thought about doing, but the pandemic has made planning it very difficult.  Hopefully in 2022 things will have eased and I will be able to fit it in.

    We stay with the route way-markers which take us around a copse and then along the top of the steep escarpment of the hill.  I have been here a few times, but still wonder at the stunning view.

    This is the third highest spot in Wiltshire and on the summit is an Iron Age hill fort with the ramparts still visible.

    We follow the path through a gate and pass a bench where a couple are admiring the view.  We have a brief conversation and continue on our way.  As we walk I say to Lynnie that I think I recognised one of the women on the bench but I can’t place where from.  Lynnie says she had the same feeling, it takes about ten minutes for us to realise it was a well known actress.  Respect for her privacy prevents me from naming her.

    We now go through the edge of woodland and then the path leads along the edge of a field heading towards a gate.

    Through the gate we continue along the ridge towards Giant’s Grave which is the site of an Iron Age Promontory Fort which resembles a long barrow.

    We pass through the ramparts of the fort to reach the Ordnance Survey trig pillar which is located on the opposite side of the fence.  I have bagged this trig a number of times but still admire the views from this cracking spot.

    It is now a steep descent from the hill along the fence line.  On our previous visits to Martinsell Hill we have walked up this route, but it is far easier on the lungs going down, but harder on the knees.  We go through a kissing gate and follow the well-worn path to reach another gate to join a track.  Here the Mid Wilts Way turns to the right to head towards Oare, but our route is straight over the track to follow the route of the White Horse Trail.

    On reaching Sunnyhill Lane we turn left and then after a couple of hundred yards take a track on the right that leads south towards the Kennet and Avon Canal and Pains Bridge.

    After crossing the bridge we continue along the path to cross the River Avon and then as we reach houses turn right to follow a footpath that soon runs besides the railway line and passes an old mill.

    We then join a minor road which soon goes under the railway line to reach the A345 where we turn left and follow the pavement down into the centre of Pewsey.  There are some interesting independent shops in the village and I am also fascinated by the Shed Alehouse.  It is closed, but I later discover that this is a small, basic pub serving ales and ciders from micro-breweries. It lists  an amazing number of beers it has served in the past.  Just the sort of place I would love to visit, but not when driving.

    Soon after passing the Shed Alehouse we reach the Post Office and turn right to return to our starting point.  I hope it won’t be too long before we get a chance to visit Martinsell Hill again.

    You can view this 11 mile walk on OS Maps and download the GPX File Here

    To follow my walk, you will need Ordnance Survey Explorer 157 – Marlborough & Savernake Forest

    9th June 2021

    © Two Dogs and an Awning (2021)

    All information on this site is provided free of charge and in good faith and no liability is accepted in respect of damage, loss or injury which might result from it.  To the best of my knowledge the routes are entirely on public rights of way or within areas that are open for public access.
    Walking can be hazardous and is done entirely at your own risk.  It is your responsibility to check your route and navigate using a map and compass.

  • Jamming About from Charlton Manor CL

    Jamming About from Charlton Manor CL

    There is something special about waking up in the caravan to the sound of early morning bird song.  It encourages me to get out and enjoy the early morning and Crosby never needs asking twice.   There is a great early morning loop from Charlton Manor CL covering just under 3 miles. An hours walk before breakfast suits me fine.

    We have a relaxing start to the day, there is no rush, at this time of the year there is plenty of daylight for walking and we have planned a walk from the site so don’t need to travel anywhere.  It is late morning before we head off, with lunch packed in our rucksacks, for a jam about in the Pewsey Vale.  

    I use the term “jam about” to refer to a walk when we have a rough idea of where we will go, but take a flexible approach, deciding on the route as we go along.  It means we wander off in another direction if we see something of interest and aren’t restricted to a particular pre-planned route.  Invariably on a “jam about” we walk further than originally intended, but that is one of the attractions.

    We leave Charlton Manor CL and turn right to walk into the village of Charlton St Peter.  This is a tranquil hamlet with most of the houses sitting along the one lane, Friday Lane.  This leads nowhere other than into the village, so there is no through traffic.  We wander along the lane and stop to look at St Peter’s Church.  This was rebuilt in 1858 but parts of a 12th century church survive and the tower is said to date from the 15th century.

    We stay with Friday Lane heading east.  At the edge of the village the lane turns into a well maintained path which we follow towards Rushall.

    We enter Rushall by the village allotments and continue along a lane to reach the Pewsey Road, passing the village school on our right. We continue along the pavement until we pass the last house on the right, here we turn right to take a footpath across fields of pasture.

    Staying with this footpath we cross fields heading towards St Matthew’s Church.  Apparently the church was first recorded in 1086 and was then rebuilt in 1332.  There was further rebuilding in 1812 and restoration in 1873 and 1905, the tower contains three bells dating from 1400, 1606 and 1740.

    From the church we join Church Lane and turn right back towards the village and then almost immediately take a path on the left which enters a field.  This path is not marked on the map but is well worn and is obviously regularly used by locals.  It takes us across a field heading towards trees.

    At a junction of paths in the trees we continue straight on heading towards Upavon and enter the village beside allotments and stop to have a chat with a chap bemoaning the state of his vegetables.  I grow a few vegetables in the garden at home, developing a good crop is not compatible with our travelling lifestyle, so I am grateful for whatever we manage to harvest.  As far as I can see this chap’s produce looks to be in good shape, but it is not unusual for gardeners, or farmers, to complain that something is preventing them getting a better crop.

    Now in Upavon we turn left down Jarvis Street and then at a junction turn right to walk into the centre of the village.  Just before we reach the shop we take a turning on the left with a finger post pointing towards the church.  We follow this lane around to have a look at the exterior of St Mary’s Church parts of which date from the 13th and 15th century.  A refurbishment was undertaken in 1875.  

    From the church we cut through to the High Street.  The village has two pubs which are almost directly opposite each other.  The Antelope is in front of us, apparently the first mention of this pub dates back to 1604 and the current building dates back to 1729.  Like many of the older properties in this area it originally had a thatched roof which has now been replaced with tiles.

    Opposite it is the thatched Ship Inn.  This building dates back to the 16th century.  I am always intrigued when a pub which is miles from the sea is called the Ship.  I can understand it in a coastal village, but not on the edge of Salisbury Plain.  I am sure there is a reason, but a quick internet search later does not reveal anything.

    The walking from Upavon is limited by the restricted access on the nearby Ministry of Defence Land.  There are footpaths across the ranges but these are only open when military manoeuvres are not taking place and I neglected to check the firing times before we set off.  Therefore, we  walk back through the village the same way as we came in, from the High Street turning up Jarvis Lane and then past the allotments to head across the field towards the Green Way Track.  

    On reaching the track we turn left and continue up to the A 342.  After crossing the road we continue straight on along Rushall Drove and soon pass Rushall Manor.  This is a tarmac drove but it only leads to a few barns and the edge of the Larkhill Artillery Range.

    The drove soon starts to ascend and as we head up we get fine views back over the area we have just  walked.

    At the top of Rushall Hill the drove continues to reach the edge of the artillery range.  The warning signs are clear and there is no way I would consider trying to enter these ranges where live firing takes place.

    We turn right and walk along the perimeter of the range.  Lynnie keeps an ear out for the sound of gunshots.  When we were walking another section of this range last year there were army manoeuvres taking place and despite us being on the safe side of the fence Lynnie was very uneasy.  I reassure her that we will not encounter any military activity on this track.  Then in the distance a cloud of dust erupts.  

    Heading towards us is a convoy of army vehicles, we quickly ensure we are on the right side of the track not to have the dust blown in our faces and very soon the heavily armed convoy reaches  us.  I admit to being a bit disconcerted at having so many machine guns pointing in our direction as they pass by.  They do look as if they mean business.

    When the dust settles we resume our walk heading along the track towards Charlton Clumps.

    At Charlton Clumps we ignore the path on the right which would lead us back to Charlton St Peter and stay with the track to reach another footpath on the right which we also ignore.  This one would also lead us back towards the caravan site.  It is a pleasant afternoon to carry on walking on this chalk downland.

    We continue along the perimeter of the range and pass two more footpaths on the right which lead towards Wilsford.  The beauty of this track is there are numerous options to make a circular walk.  Eventually we decide to take a path on the right and choose the one that leads towards Marden Copse.  As this starts to descend there are cracking views over the Vale of Pewsey.

    As we pass besides the trees the path descends steeply.  After crossing a stile we join a track and follow this heading north towards Marden.  After crossing the A342 we continue heading towards Marden on a minor road.  When this straight road starts to bend to the left we take a track on the right and pass a recently converted barn and Marden Cricket Club.  The tractor and game mowers for cutting the outfield look as if they have been abandoned in the field.  Presumably there are no fixtures coming up.

    We now follow this track heading east. 

    We continue on to cross a track and then reach a minor road where we turn left and then in just over a hundred yards we take a turning on the right continuing between fields to reach a minor road where we continue straight on and then at a junction turn left and then soon take a footpath on the right.   We are now heading across fields and soon the Charlton Cat comes into view.  

    We keep following the path as it heads towards Charlton St Peter and then in the village turn left to cross the River Avon and return to the caravan site.

    Our jamabout has covered just over ten and a half miles and it has been a cracking day to be out.  Now it is time to start planning tomorrow’s walk.

    You can view this 10.5 mile walk on OS Maps and download the GPX File Here

    To follow my walk, you will need Ordnance Survey Explorer Map OL130 – Salisbury and Stonehenge

    8th June 2021

    © Two Dogs and an Awning (2021)

    All information on this site is provided free of charge and in good faith and no liability is accepted in respect of damage, loss or injury which might result from it.  To the best of my knowledge the routes are entirely on public rights of way or within areas that are open for public access.
    Walking can be hazardous and is done entirely at your own risk.  It is your responsibility to check your route and navigate using a map and compass.