Two Dogs and an Awning

Category: Wiltshire

Cherhill Monument from Roundway Hill

Earlier in the year I visited the Cherhill Monument and White Horse with Mandy my walking buddy. It was part of our quest to visit all the Wiltshire white horses in 2020. It was a cracking area to visit so today our walk is going to include a trip to the monument.

The starting point for our walk is a car park on Roundway Hill (Grid Ref: SU014641), this is only a short drive from Horse Lane Farm CL. We head off along a wide track heading in a northerly direction with the aerials on Morgan’s Hill in the distance in front of us.

In this area on the 13th July 1643 the Battle of Roundway Down was fought between the Royalists, led by Lord Wilmot, and the Parliamentarians, led by Sir William Waller. The day ended in a resounding victory for the Royalists. The fleeing Parliamentarians inadvertently rode their horses over the steep edge of the hill fort at Roundway Hill which is now known as Oliver’s Castle.

After one and a quarter miles we reach a junction of tracks and turn right to head east towards a minor road. After crossing the road we continue in the same direction with Furze Knoll on top of Morgan’s Hill to our left.

This is another clear track easy to follow without much reference to the map, allowing us to take in the surrounding scenery across the vale.

We stay with this track to pass the entrance to Baltic Farm we now have sight of the monument on Cherhill. I have promised Lynnie that when we reach it we will stop for lunch so our pace quickens.

At a junction of paths we turn left and head north on a footpath that soon runs besides a plantation. At a crossing of tracks we go straight over to join the Wessex Ridgeway and White Horse Trail.

Passing through a gate we enter access land and continue uphill. To our left is the impressive bowl in Calstone Down and we decide this would make the perfect spot to stop on the downs for lunch.

Resuming our walk we follow the path up to the Iron Age hill fort of Oldbury Castle.

We walk through the ramparts towards the Lansdowne Monument. This is a popular spot so we take care to ensure we maintain a good social distance from all the families that are here. The monument, which is known as the Cherhill Monument or Lansdowne 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 attained great wealth.

The lower parts of the monument are clad in timber with a rubble guard, this was first erected in 2013 and the National Trust, who now own the site recently sought a further five-year extension to retain this protective structure. Apparently, they need this extra time to raise the £2.7m required to restore the monument. It is reported in local newspapers that the National Trust said they might close the entire site if the permission for the protective structure was not granted. It is a pity that between the National Trust and the current Marquises of Lansdowne they cannot find the funds required to ensure continued safe public access to the site without the need for the unsightly cladding.

From the monument we wander around the hill fort ramparts to get a view of the White Horse. I tell Lynnie that there is a much better view from the bottom of the hill, but when she realises that we would need to come back to this point to continue our walk she politely declines.

From the monument we take a path heading west to reach a gate. Looking back we get a good view of the monument and white horse.

After going through the gate we continue west to gradually descend the downs.

The path reaches a gate and then joins a hedge lined track.

We stay on this track for just over half a mile then just as we reach houses we turn left to head south along a track towards Calstone Mill. Near the mill we take the permissive path around the property. The footpath runs in front of the mill, but I am not one of those walkers who insists on walking the route of a footpath when it goes through someone’s garden. As long as a well maintained alternative is supplied I am content to preserve people’s privacy. We catch a glimpse of the 18th century mill which was used for corn and cloth.

We stay with the path to reach Calstone Wellington and then turn left along a minor road to pass Manor Farm

As we walk along I say to Lynnie this is very familiar, but I know we have not walked here before. Then I realise that a couple of years ago we attended the wedding of our niece Kate at the Wellington Barn which is up a lane to our right.

We continue through the village passing an area where trees were planted in 2012 to mark Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee and then take a lane on the right to walk up to have a look at the 15th century St Mary’s Church.

From the church we go through a gate and take an uphill footpath through a field of pasture. After going through a gate we meet a couple walking towards us. They have just come down a track on the left and tell us this is a permitted route to connect to another footpath which heads up Morgan’s Hill. We take their advice and turn left to walk on the track around the edge of the field. On meeting a footpath besides a copse we go right and continue uphill.

We carry on across a track and then head more steeply up towards the wireless station on Morgan’s Hill. Apparently in 1913 a Marconi Imperial Wireless Chain receiving station was built here, this was converted to military use in 1916. From 1920 to 1929 it was the base for the first British long-range maritime communications station. More recently it was used by the Wiltshire Constabulary for radio communications and in recent years has been used for mobile phone telecommunications.

We carry on to reach the impressive Wansdyke and turn right to walk beside it. To our left the trig point on Morgan’s Hill is clearly visible. When I visited this trig to bag it in March it was on its side, so it is good to see it back upright. I need to get close to “bag” a trig, but Lynnie is content to claim one from a few hundred yards away. So will be wanting this one added to her list.

We now walk west following the route of this early medieval dyke that once spanned the Western part of the Country from Savernake Forest towards the Severn Estuary. The part we are on is a section of the remaining Eastern Dyke which is nine miles long.

We stay with the Wansdyke path as it leaves the access land and joins a track where we continue to head west passing through a wooded area to reach a road. We cross and then turn right to follow a path along the edge of the field. This is not shown as a footpath on the map, but it does mean we avoid walking along the busy road. On reaching a track we turn left and walk a few hundred yards to a crossing of tracks. Here we turn left and head south along the track towards Hampsley Hollow.

The track soon runs besides the edge of North Wilts Golf course and then reaches stables at Hampsley Hollow. The track becomes a tarmac lane and we stay with this to reach Heddington. As we enter the village we turn right into Hampsley Road and follow this to a junction with Stockley Road where we turn left and soon pass the attractive thatched Ivy Inn.

We continue through the village to reach Church Lane and soon reach the entrance to St Andrew’s Church.

From the church we continue along Church Lane to a junction where we turn right to walk out of the village. As the road sweeps to the left we take a track on the right passing a farmyard and then providing a good view of the church with interesting windows set in the roof.

We stay with this track as it initially heads west and then sweeps to the south with views of the top of the Buddhist Temple at the International Meditation Centre which was established on this site at Splatts House in 1978.

On reaching a track we turn left and make the long steady ascent of Beacon Hill.

It is now a warm afternoon so we are grateful when we reach the top of the hill and turn right on a track with a fine view of Oliver’s Castle.

We continue on the track to reach a junction of tracks where we turn left and then almost immediately right to follow the route of the Mid Wilts Way along a wide track.

Just as we reach the brow of Roundway Hill we take a path on the left which heads west towards a plantation and then walk through the trees to return to our starting point.

Our walk has covered fourteen miles and there have been stunning views all the way around. This really is a cracking area to walk.

To follow my walk you will need Ordnance Survey Explorer Map OL157& 156

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

29th July 2020

© Two Dogs and an Awning (2020)

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.

July 29, 2020
Visiting Caen Hill Locks

One of our reasons for visiting Horse Lane Farm CL was to explore around Devizes, in particular to make a trip to Caen Hill Locks on the Kennet and Avon Canal. This well renowned rise of locks is a major tourist attraction, but despite being relatively close to home we have never visited.

Yesterday we only walked a few miles to give my knee a rest. I did a short walk earlier and felt hardly any pain so feel confident that I can manage the ten miles I have planned for our main walk today.

Our starting point is the pay and display car park in Station Road, close to the centre of Devizes. Leaving the car park we wander up into the town and resist the temptation to explore the town centre for now because there are a number of people about, hopefully it will be quieter when we get back from our walk. We go south heading towards St John’s churchyard.

St John’s Church was built in the early 12th century by the Bishop of Salisbury as the church for the nearby castle and garrison. We do not venture inside but it is said to be very impressive.

We head through the churchyard to pass the 17th century Sexton’s Cottage. Apparently this was originally an almshouse and later became the home of the Sexton who was responsible for the maintenance of the church and its surroundings.

We leave the churchyard close to the Sexton’s Cottage and go over a bridge crossing the route of the now disused Devizes branch line railway. The line was closed in 1966 and little evidence of it remains. We now follow a footpath besides the fence of Devizes Castle. This path leads to Hillworth Road where we turn right and then almost immediately left into Hartmoor Lane. We stay with this road as it goes through housing and then becomes a sunken track.

The track continues to pass Furzehill Farm. Soon after the farm we reach a bench offering fine views across the valley to Potterne. The ideal spot to stop for lunch.

Resuming our walk we continue down the track to reach a minor road, Whistley Road and turn left to pass Whistley Farm and then stay with this lane for half a mile to reach a bridleway on the right. We follow the bridleway to a junction of tracks near the sewage works where we turn right.

At the next junction of tracks we go left and keep with the track to reach a junction of tracks at Five Lanes. Here we turn right to take the Hay Lane track heading northwest. This track goes over a stream with an ornate bridge.

There are a number of footpaths leading off the track which we ignore. The track takes us to the village of Poulshot. This is an interesting village with a large green with houses dotted around it.

To our left is an area known as Green Gardens Woodland. In 1831 this area was enclosed for the benefit of the poor. It later became allotments, the demand for which gradually decreased so in 1977 the Parish Council started planting trees on the land. Initially this was a small plantation but in 2003 a three and a half acre woodland was created by the planting of 1,200 trees.

There is also a handy water tap by the entrance to the gardens so I am able to top up Crosby’s drinking bottle.

From the woodland we head back towards the Raven pub and take a turning on the left into Barley Hill Lane just before reaching the pub. After just over quarter of a mile we turn right onto a footpath along a track and follow this path to reach the A361 where we turn right and walk along the wide verge of this busy road for 100 yards and then take a left into the driveway of Foxhanger camp site. After passing camping fields we turn left through a gate and follow the wide track down towards the Kennet and Avon Canal.

We join the canal by the Foxhanger Pump House which was installed in 1996 to pump water back to the top of the canal. Apparently it pumps 32 million litres of water everyday which equates to a lock full of water every eleven minutes.

By the pump house is a lock, the start of a series of twenty nine locks which rise the canal 237 feet in two miles.

We now follow the towpath by a series of seven locks which are fairly evenly spaced and look no different than a normal series of locks on any canal around the country.

However, after passing the last of this section of locks comes the impressive site of the sixteen locks heading up Caen Hill. This is a stunning sight.

Apparently to provide the bricks required to build these locks a brickyard was created at Foxhangers. The flight was completed in 1810 and was the last part of the 87 mile canal from Reading to Bristol. It is a stunning bit of engineering. In order to have sufficient water to operate the locks large side pounds were created between fifteen of them.

It is a steady ascent up the hill on foot, but considerable effort is needed for those on a barge. It is said to take between five and six hours to complete the full flight, but in the world of narrow boating it is considered one of the must do experiences.

We stay with the canal path to pass the Black Horse pub. I assume this pub is usually extremely busy refreshing those that have just made the ascent up the canal. However, the current pandemic means it is quiet.

Still on the towpath we head towards Devizes and keep with it when it changes sides and soon passes the town’s cemetery to reach Park Gates at the entrance to Roundway Park.

We now head up New Park Road towards St Mary’s Church and then pop in to have a wander around this fine old church which was originally built in the 12th century and over the years has undergone a number of alterations and restorations.

We continue into the centre of Devizes which is full of interesting buildings. The town was built on the wealth from the wool and textile trade in the 16th century and in the 1800’s had the largest corn market in the west country.

Thankfully many of the old buildings remain and it would be worth spending a day just wandering around and learning the history of such grand structures. Years ago I used to visit the town occasionally for work, but in those days I did not appreciate how attractive it was and the only buildings I recall from those days are the Bear Hotel and Black Swan Inn.

From the centre of the town we retrace our steps back to the car park. Our walk has covered ten miles, far enough for a man with a dodgy knee. The good news is it has not given any pain, so hopefully we can clock up a few more miles tomorrow.

To follow this walk you will need Ordnance Survey Explorer Map OL157 Marlborough & Savernake Forest

You can view this 10 mile walk on OS Maps and download the GPX File Here

28th July 2020

© Two Dogs and an Awning (2020)

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.

July 28, 2020
A Few Miles from Horse Lane Farm CL

In a normal year, and this is anything but a normal year, we would have been away in the caravan for around sixty nights by now. However this year we have had less than fifteen so we are spending a bit of time today just sorting things out around the van and chilling in the sunshine.

Another reason for resting up a bit is that on my morning walk with Crosby I started getting pain in my right knee. This is something I have experienced on and off for the last six years and normally a day’s rest and an application of Ibuprofen gel sorts things out.

Crosby is content to lay in the sun, but there comes a time when both dog and man need to stretch their legs. So come late afternoon the boots are on and we all head out.

We leave the CL and turn right along the farm lane and follow this to a gate which we go through and continue across fields to reach a gate onto a track which we follow to reach a minor road, Durlett Road, where we turn right.

We follow Durlett Road heading north for just over a mile to reach a footpath on the right which is way marked to St Edith’s Marsh. This path follows a lane.

We stay with the lane to pass a disused farmyard.

The yard looks in a dilapidated state, but the pole barn on our right contains two cracking old tractors. There is a Ford 4600 dating from the 1970’s which looks like it has just come out of a showroom.

In equally immaculate condition is a Massey Ferguson with a hay cutter attached.

Needless to say as we continue our walk I am regaling Lynnie with tales of working on a farm as a nipper in the early 1970’s. At a junction of tracks we turn right and follow a track into a copse and then emerge into a field of pasture. At a junction of paths we turn left crossing a field to reach a track leading to the A342.

We cross the road and turn right along the pavement and follow this for quarter of a mile to reach the entrance to Horse Lane Farm CL. Our walk has covered almost 2.5 miles and most of the way my knee has been painful. Hopefully tomorrow it will have eased a bit.

To follow this walk you will need Ordnance Survey Explorer Map OL157 Marlborough & Savernake Forest.

You can view this 2.5 mile walk on OS Maps and download the GPX File Here (Subscription to OS Maps Required)

27th July 2020

© Two Dogs and an Awning (2020)

July 27, 2020
Rowde from Horse Lane Farm CL

We have decided to get away for another week in the caravan. We have not been shopping since the start of the Covid 19 pandemic relying on home delivery instead, we have worked out we can get a week’s supply of food in the caravan without needing to visit a supermarket.

As we are only away for a week I am keen not to drive far, so we are exploring more of Wiltshire and have found a pitch at Horse Lane Farm CL, just outside the village of Rowde near Devizes. It is only a thirty mile journey, so within an hour of setting off we are pitching up. Once everything is sorted the boots are on and we are off for a wander from the site.

Leaving the CL we turn right to take a farm lane and follow this to a gate which we go through and continue across a field. From here we get a good view of Oliver’s Castle Hillfort. This is an Iron Age Hillfort originally known as Roundway Hillfort. Apparently during the English Civil War the battle of Roundway resulted in Parliamentarians fleeing the Royalists and inadvertently riding their horses over the steep edge of the hill fort and falling to their deaths.

We continue across the fields with an attractive thatched cottage to our left, soon reaching a gate onto a track which we follow to a minor road where we turn left.

We follow the minor road past Durlett Farm and then Lower Durlett Farm and then take a footpath on the left along a wide grassy track.

We stay with this track as it sweeps to the south to reach a minor road. Here we turn left and follow this country lane for a mile to reach Rowde. In the village we take a footpath to St Matthews Church. This is a large church for the size of the village. The tower was built in the 15th century but the rest of the church dates from the 1800’s when it was totally rebuilt.

From the church we wander through the village passing the two pubs. First the Cross Keys which was built in the 1930’s to replace a pub that had burnt down on the same site, and then the George and Dragon which dates back to the 16th century. Sadly we will not be visiting either pub on this visit.

Our route now heads north out of the village on the pavement besides the A342 for just over half a mile. Our little wander has covered just short of four miles and has given us a feel for the area. Now it is time to settle down to plan walks for the next few days.

To follow my walk, you will need Ordnance Survey Explorer Map OL157 Marlborough & Savernake Forest

You can view this 4-mile walk on OS Maps and download the GPX File Here (Subscription to OS Maps Required)

26th July 2020

© Two Dogs and an Awning (2020)

July 26, 2020
The Smallest Village in Wiltshire

After a couple of weeks away I am back walking on my own again on Cranborne Chase. Over the last year I have done a number of walks from Broadchalke, but I am still trying to link the local footpath network. So today whilst some of my walk will be on previously walked tracks, I intend exploring as well.

The start point for my walk is the car park of All Saints Church in Broad Chalke (Grid reference SU040253). As I arrive at the car park a large group of Ramblers are gathering and I hear the group leader say they are heading towards the Punchbowl, this is my intended route so I get sorted quickly and head off to avoid getting caught up with them.

Leaving the car park by the entrance gateway I turn left and walk along The Causeway soon crossing the River Ebble. At the road junction close to the Queens Head pub I turn right and pass the United Reform Chapel that now also houses the village community shop and café.

Just after the chapel I take a footpath on the left, this leads to a lane where I turn right and continue along a footpath when the lane ends. I am now heading northeasterly uphill, with good views of the valley.

I can hear the voices of the ramblers behind me so don’t hang about for too long admiring the views. At a junction with a broad track I turn left and continue uphill towards Stoke Down.

After passing a farm I continue on the track, this is a long steady haul up the hill, at a way-marker I leave the track to fork right and head across arable fields on a clearly defined path.

The route now enters woodland and soon reaches a driveway where I turn left following it to reach the Old Shaftesbury Drove. I turn left and follow the drove for 2.2 miles to reach a track on the right.

Here I turn and follow this track as it descends steadily on Compton Down.

The track continues to the A30 where I cross and follow a track up to Naishes Farm.

After passing the farm buildings the track heads between fields and then descends on a sunken track through woodland continuing on to Compton Chamberlayne. I turn left and wander through the village to visit the cemetery which has a number of Commonwealth War Graves from World War I.

During World War I Army Camps were located in the fields below Compton and Fovant Down, here troops prepared to fight in the conflict. Amongst the men stationed here were troops from Australia and many of these war graves are for Australian service men. Some of whom, just boys, had joined up to fight and then spent months on an arduous sea crossing leaving the Australian summer to arrive in a British winter, sadly their lives were ended by respiratory disease.

Leaving the cemetery I turn and left continue through this attractive village to reach St Michael’s Church. This church was originally built in the 13th century with additions in later years, in 1877 a major restoration was paid for by the villagers.

I briefly pop inside to admire an impressive interior.

Leaving the Church I turn right and then almost immediately take a footpath on a track on the left going steadily uphill and becoming a fine sunken track.

As the path levels out it continues besides woodland to reach Home Farm. I keep heading west along a farm track, passing barns and then continuing between fields. There are good views of the Fovant Regimental Badges.

These were created by soldiers garrisoned in the valley below the Downs during World War I. The first badge was cut in 1916 and a further nineteen badges were created. Of the originals nine remain and further badges have been added to the surrounding Downs.

The path leads along the edge of woodland with a steep slope to the right.

I reach a track, Green Drove, and cross it to join a footpath going along the edge of a field on Fir Hill. In the field of Barley to my right is an Ordnance Survey trig point, I have previously bagged this one, so I content myself with just seeing the top of it as I pass by.

I follow the path around the edge of a field and then ignore a kissing gate on the right, instead continuing for a few hundred yards to take a footpath going downhill through woodland.

On reaching a lane in Fovant I turn right and then very quickly take a left into Mill Lane and follow this through the village to meet the Tisbury Road. I turn right through the village and at a fork in the road go right into Church Lane and follow this to St George’s Church.

The churchyard is another poignant reminder of the World War I camps in this area with 63 Commonwealth War Graves.

From the church I retrace my steps down Church Lane to the junction and turn right along Moor Hill heading out of the village. I stay with this lane past Long’s Farm and then at a junction turn left into Panter’s Road gradually climbing towards Sutton Mandeville. At a footpath on the right I leave the road to walk up to All Saints church.

The church dates from the 13th century with the tower added in the 15th century and restoration work carried out in 1862. The churchyard has an unusual sundial.

From the church I continue into the village and then turn left passing the Old Rectory. At a fork in the road I go right and join Glass’s Lane heading south towards the A30. After crossing the main road I join a footpath going south along the side of an arable field.

The path joins access land on Sutton Down, I follow way-markers across a stile aiming to keep to a footpath heading up the hill. This is not a well walked path, but I roughly follow the fence line to reach a stile in the top corner.

From here I head west along the top of access land before turning south to walk besides a fence to a gate where I rejoin the Old Shaftesbury Drove and turn left.

After a quarter of a mile I take a footpath on the right leaving the drove. I stay with the track through arable fields ignoring a footpath on the right. The track takes me across the top of Fifield Down which has some splendid contours.

It is then a long steady descent across the downs whilst enjoying some stunning views.

On reaching a gate I join a minor road and turn left to walk into Fifield Bavant. This is the smallest village in Wiltshire with just two houses, the Manor House and former rectory, and ten cottages.

I stay with the road to a footpath leading through a farmyard to reach the small 13th Century St Martin’s Church. Recent restoration on this church was completed in 2011, funded in part by a location fee paid for the use of the village for scenes in the filming of Pride and Prejudice.

After visiting the church I return through the farmyard and then take a footpath through a gate on the left heading downhill to cross a footbridge over a stream, it is dry at the moment. I continue south in the field to reach a footpath heading east and follow this through the valley.

I reach a minor road besides watercress beds. According to the website for Chalke Valley watercress these beds date back to 1880 when John Hutchings chose the site to build them. Production started in 1889 and has continued, the beds have been run by the same family ever since.

After passing the watercress beds I stay on the lane to a junction with South Street, I turn left and wander along the road into Broad Chalke passing attractive cottages.

At the church I take a path to the left returning to my starting point in the car park. My walk has covered the best part of 17 miles and has been thoroughly enjoyable.

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 OL118 – Shaftesbury & Cranborne Chase and OL130 – Salisbury & Stonehenge

Additional Information

For more information on this walk including car parking, amenities, refreshments and detailed walking directions visit my associated Walking Moonraker website.

24th July 2020

© Two Dogs and an Awning (2020)

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.

July 24, 2020
Walkers Hill from Pewsey

Last year with three walking buddies I walked the Sarsen Trail, the 26-mile walk between Avebury and Stonehenge. The route took us over Walkers Hill near the Alton Barnes White Horse and the views were absolutely stunning. Today Lynnie and I are going there, we could start our walk from the car park on Walkers Hill, but I always think part of the enjoyment of visiting somewhere is the journey involved so we are starting nine miles away in Pewsey.

We park in 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. We turn left and follow the road to a mini roundabout then continue besides the A345, now North Street. We stay on the main road until we reach Buckleaze Lane on the right. This lane goes under a railway bridge and then turns right to run parallel to the line before becoming a footpath besides an old mill.

After crossing the River Avon we continue on the narrow path besides the railway line, when the path opens out we fork left keeping a fence on our left and soon pass gardens. Reaching a tarmac lane we continue to a junction and turn left to head north on a bridleway, this is the route of the White Horse Trail. The path heads downhill and crosses the River Avon.

Soon after we cross the Kennet and Avon Canal at Pains Bridge.

The path is now a farm track still heading north. After passing the entrance to Inlands Farm we continue on the farm track.

Reaching a minor road, Sunnyhill Lane, we turn left and then soon turn right to pick up the White Horse Trail again until we reach a track. Here we leave the White Horse Trail and turn left along the track, we are now on the route of the Mid Wilts Way. This long distance path is a 68-mile route crossing the County from its boundary with Berkshire to Somerset. We follow the lane, Pound Lane into the village of Oare.

Reaching the A345 we turn right and pass The White Hart pub, sadly this pub closed in 2014 and it looks like it is a long way from re-opening. Such pubs are key to retaining village life and it is surprising that one so close to so many good walks is not worthy of brewery investment to keep it going. Apparently the local community had plans to try and operate the pub as a community venture, but that doesn’t seem to have progressed.

Soon after passing the pub we take a lane on the left leading past the school and then turn right to follow a footpath heading steadily uphill on the edge of a field. We are still on the Mid Wilts Way.

The path enters access land on Huish Hill and then climbs steeply. It is a hot day and this ascent is a good challenge but the views make it worthwhile.

We follow the footpath to reach a driveway to Huish Hill House and then turn left to follow the path through the grounds of the property and into a copse. The path now continues in a northwesterly direction across fields.

We have now joined the White Horse Trail and Tan Hill Way; the latter is a 12-mile route from Clench Common to the Wansdyke Path. I often wonder how walks such as this end up being named on the Ordnance Survey Map.

We stay with this route to reach a gate leading into a field of cattle. I am wary of cattle, especially when Crosby is with me, there is something about him that seems to attract them. This herd are in a frisky mood so we make a quick decision to re-plot our route. Back at the gate we turn and follow a footpath along a grassy track heading east.

In just under a mile we take a footpath on the left to head north towards Bayardo Farm. After passing farm buildings the track takes us to the farmhouse with a Caravan and Motorhome Club CL in the field to our right.

We turn left and briefly follow a road, but as this sweeps sharply to the right we continue straight on along a track into Broom Copse.

This is a cracking bit of woodland. We stay with the track along the southern edge of the woods.

At a junction of tracks we turn left and continue along the edge of trees now on the route of the Wansdyke and White Horse Trail, this passes Strawberry Ground and Heath Plantation to reach another crossing of paths. We go left following the White Horse Trail way-markers south.

The track reaches a junction of seven footpaths, we turn right into a field and head steadily uphill besides Gopher Wood to reach the top of Draycott Hill.

We now head west along the top of the hill. The views from here are stunning.

A few times this year Lynnie has asked why we have not walked more in Wiltshire, she had not appreciated it was so beautiful. The answer if that we usually head off to walk in the Yorkshire Dales, Scotland, Exmoor or the Brecon Beacons, but the views from here compare with anywhere we have been on our travels.

The path passes through fields abundant with a wide array of wildflowers. Despite all the challenges of the year so far being here surrounded by nature is great therapy.

Our route descends to skirt north of the Neolithic hill fort on Knap Hill.

We then continues through a car park. We cross the road and turn to the left to follow a path up Walkers Hill.

The views from the top are panoramic.

It is a clear day and we can see for miles.

We head south down Walkers Hill getting 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 295metres and is reported to be the second highest chalk hill in the UK.

On the 10th May 2011 a chap named Neville Almond recorded the longest hang gliding flight in the UK after taking off from Milk Hill. He flew an amazing 167 miles to the Norfolk coast in less than five hours. His record stood for a year until Carl Wallbank flew from Llangollen in Wales to Weymouth a distance of 171 miles.

After going through a gate we continue downhill crossing the road and joining a permissive path besides paddocks. As we near a road we turn left and follow the path along the edge of the field and then join the road and soon turn right by a fine old thatched barn in Alton Priors.

At the back of the barn I spot a collection of old farm machinery and we wander over to have a look.

Resuming our walk down the lane in front of the barn we see that it is full of old farm machinery. I particularly like the seed drill. When I was a nipper working on a farm I used to ride on the back of one of these to make sure the seed was distributed evenly.

Now we continue down the lane, Village Street, and follow this to a gate with an interesting turnstile besides 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.

It is used as a meeting place, but retains the feel of a place of worship.

In the churchyard there is a Yew Tree which has been dated as 1,700 years old. Faced with a tree with a hole in it Lynnie belies her years and cannot resist sticking her head through it!

From the church we follow the footpath to another set of turnstiles on either side of a footbridge.

From here 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. I had hoped this church would be open, when I walked by here last summer restoration work was in progress and we managed a brief peek inside and it was full of scaffolding, however a notice on the door says the church has been permanently closed.

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.

We walk along the towpath for four and a half miles, it is a cracking section of the canal going through open countryside with the occasional barge moored on the bank.

We pass under the ornate Ladies Bridge, built by John Rennie in 1808. The design was at the insistence of Susannah Wroughton who owned the land the canal passed through and the name refers to her and her daughter, also Susannah.

Just after the bridge we reach a section where the canal widens, this was also at the behest of Susannah Wroughton and her family, they would only allow the canal to pass through if an ornamental lake was created.

From here we pass Wilcot bridge and then go under the Stowell Park suspension bridge which spans the canal. This was built in 1845 as a bridge for a private path across the canal. It was designed and built by the noted bridge builder James Dredge (senior). Apparently he was a brewer who later became an inventor of suspension bridges unfortunately only a few now remain.

We continue on, passing Pewsey Wharf, now the location for the Waterfront a pub and cafe but in the past it would have been key to local trade with goods being loaded and unloaded. There are a few people about so conscious of the need to social distance we decide to keep going and not explore the site.

Staying on the towpath we pass more barges, these look like they are permenantly moored. We soon reach Pains Bridge where we leave the canal and turn right to retrace our earlier route back towards Pewsey. As we reach houses we have the option of following our earlier route back to the car or continuing along Hollybush Lane. We opt for the latter and take this lane along the edge of the village. We stay with this road as it becomes more built up and then at a junction with the B3087 turn right and soon reach a guide post with a lamp at the junction with Ball Road. The base and cast iron post date from 1880 with the lamp being added later.

We stay with the B3087 and walk along the pavement to reach the centre of Pewsey where we turn right at the statue of King Alfred and return to our starting point. Our walk has covered close to 16.5 miles and has had some absolutely stunning views.

We are heading home tomorrow. Our first trip away since the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic has been really enjoyable and there have been times when we have forgotten about all the challenges going on in the world. Hopefully it won’t be too long before we are off in the Coachman again.

To follow this walk you will need Ordnance Survey Explorer Map OL157 Marlborough & Savernake Forest

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

16th July 2020

© Two Dogs and an Awning (2020)

ll 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.

July 16, 2020
Thatch in the Pewsey Vale

Today we are walking from Charlton Manor CL again, exploring a bit more of the Vale of Pewsey. It is amazing that we are so close to home, yet until this year hadn’t considered walking around here. From now it will be one of my go to locations for a day out.

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 that look as if they are no longer used.

We follow the lane to reach St James’ Church, apparently there was a church on this site back in 963 but 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. I am not a fisherman, many years ago I spent a couple of hours with a friend besides the River Wharfe in the Yorkshire Dales. I found it peaceful sat by the river, but after 30 minutes I was itching to go for a walk. I have never been tempted to try it again. 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 as forks left to follow a footpath along the edge of the field to reach St Peter’s Church, 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. I later discover there is a plaque on the wall to Mary Nicholas who with her sister helped King Charles II escape after the battle of Worcester in 1651.

From the church we head back to the field and take a footpath that leads by the Manor House and then rejoins the White Horse Trail in the next field.

After crossing a lane we continue on the White Horse 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 from 1861-64. On all our travels I cannot recall visiting another church without a dedication.

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 leave the White Horse Trail and turn right to follow the road northwards and cross a railway bridge and then turn left on a footpath along a track. We stay with this track to reach a minor road where we turn right and then within a hundred yards take a left to follow a track besides arable fields.

At a junction of tracks we continue north to pass the Dovecote at Wilcot Manor. This was built in 1737. Apparently in 1939 the interior was converted to an air raid shelter.

We walk past the Holy Cross Church in Wilcot, it was gutted by fire on 11 April1876 with only the walls and tower remaining. Work immediately started on rebuilding what is now a fine looking church.

We now head through this attractive village to reach the Golden Swan pub. According to Wiltshire Council’s History site in 1746 there was a pub called the Swan on the south corner of the village green, however, around 1859 this was replaced by the Golden Swan. It is said that this pub has the steepest thatched roof in Wiltshire.

At the pub we turn left along the road and head northwest through the village to pass the Green and reach a bridge over the Kennet and Avon Canal.

We join the canal and although our route is to the west we first go east for a few hundred yards to look at the Stowell Park suspension bridge spanning the canal. This was built in 1845 as a bridge to provide a private crossing of the canal. It was designed and built by the noted bridge builder James Dredge (senior). Apparently he was a brewer who later became an inventor of suspension bridges of which only a few remain.

We turn and walk back along the canal passing under the bridge at Wilcot before continuing on to pass a wider section with the Wilcot Withy Bed on the far side. A withy bed was an area of willow or ash grown and coppiced for their flexible stems used for thatching. The widening of the canal here was at the insistence of Susannah Wroughton and her family, they lived in Wilcot Manor and owned the land and would only allow the canal to pass through if an ornamental lake was created.

We then reach the ornate Ladies Bridge was built by John Rennie in 1808. The design was also at the behest of Susannah Wroughton and the reference to Ladies refers to her and her daughter, also named Susannah.

This is a very pleasant section of canal to walk along. It is surrounded by open country side.

We leave the canal on reaching Woodborough Fields Bridge, No. 122, and follow the footpath towards Woodborough and enter the village by St Mary Magdalen Church. This was rebuilt in 1850, but apparently has a number of elements from the past including the Royal arms of Charles II over the chancel arch.

We continue south through the village to reach a junction where we turn right and after a couple of hundred yards take a footpath on the left. We now follow this path across a field to reach the mainline railway.

We cross this on a pedestrian crossing so take extra special care to “Stop, Look and Listen”, on the far side we cross another field to reach the back of the Seven Stars pub where we cross a stile. Then on reaching a road we turn right to pass the pub. According to its website there has been a pub here for the last 265 years.

We now head west through Bottlesford to reach a footpath on the left which we follow along a track and then go across a field towards a copse. The path skirts the copse and then goes towards a minor road on the edge of Hilcott. We turn left and walk along the road towards Wilds Farm. Before reaching the farm we pass a cottage with a Victorian Letterbox set into the wall.

At Wilds Farm we turn right to take a footpath along a track and follow this south to reach a junction with the White Horse Trail. Here we turn right and retrace our route for half a mile back to Charlton Manor CL.

Our wander around this section of the Pewsey Vale has covered almost 11.5 miles. I cannot recall seeing so many thatched cottages in one day, which is saying something for a native of Wiltshire. We may not have enjoyed far ranging views, but we have had a very scenic day.

To follow this walk you will need Ordnance Survey Explorer Map OL130 Salisbury & Stonehenge and OL157 Marlborough & Savernake Forest .

You can view this 11.5 mile walk on OS Maps and download the GPX File Here

15th July 2020

© Two Dogs and an Awning (2020)

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.

July 15, 2020
A Morning Walk from Charlton Manor CL

One of the things I like about being away in the caravan is that first thing in the morning I have to head out with Crosby for a walk. This is usually around 7.00am. before many other folk are about.

Depending on where we are staying our walk normally covers between one and a half to three miles. I always try to do a circular walk, I have an aversion to walking out and back on the same route.

My morning walk from Charlton Manor CL has been a two mile loop. I leave the CL and turn left to join the track which is also the route of the White Horse Trail and I follow this for half a mile to a junction of tracks where I turn left leaving the White Horse Trail.

I go along this track, with views of the Alton Barnes White Horse to the right, for three quarters of a mile to reach a junction of paths where I turn left. The path heads through a field to cross a stream and then head along the edge of another field.

At the next crossing of paths I turn left and follow this path eastward. To my right on the opposite side of the road is a fine example of Strip Lynchets. This is an ancient field system created on downland to maximise the use of the land for agriculture.

Now I follow the path along the edge of the field with the Charlton Cat cafe visible in front to the right.

Leaving the field I turn left down a track to reach the edge of Charlton St Peter, where I turn left and follow the lane back to the caravan site. This walk is just over two miles, just about right for both Crosby and I before breakfast. Now it is time to start preparing for our main walk of the day!

To follow this walk you will need Ordnance Survey Explorer Map OL130 Salisbury and Stonehenge

You can view this 2.3 mile walk on OS Maps and download the GPX File Here

15th July 2020

© Two Dogs and an Awning (2020)

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.

July 15, 2020
Martinsell Hill and Milton Hill

Back in May I walked from Pewsey and visited Martinsell Hill and the Pewsey White Horse. The views were stunning and on showing the pictures to Lynnie she said she would like to walk there. We are staying very close to Pewsey and the weather looks set fair for the day so it seems a good time to head there.

Our starting point 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. We turn left and follow this road, at a mini roundabout we continue besides the A345, now North Street. We stay on the main road until we reach Buckleaze Lane on the right. This lane goes under a railway bridge and then turns right to run parallel to the line before becoming a footpath besides an old mill.

After crossing the River Avon we continue on the narrow path besides the railway line, when the path opens out we fork left keeping a fence on our left, soon passing gardens. Reaching a tarmac lane we continue to a junction and turn left to head north on a bridleway, this is the route of the White Horse Trail.

The path heads downhill and crosses the River Avon. Soon after we cross the Kennet and Avon Canal at Pains Bridge.

The path is now a farm track still heading north. After passing the entrance to Inlands Farm we take a footpath on the left which crosses a stile into a field.

In a second field we continue on the well-worn path to cross a minor road, Sunnyhill Lane remaining on the White Horse Trail. In the distance in front of us is the hill we will soon be ascending to reach Giants Grave.

At a junction of tracks we turn left to head along the northern edge of a field towards woodland.

The path follows around the woods to reach the A345 where we turn right and walk a few hundred yards to reach Holy Trinity Church in Oare. This is a fairly modern church, built in 1858 and has an interesting design.

From the church we take a gate and head west to reach Rudge Lane, where we turn right and pass Oare House. This is a fine Grade 1 listed building built in 1740 for a London wine merchant. Apparently it was redesigned in the 1920’s by Sir Bertram Clough Williams-Ellis the architect best known for creating the village of Portmeirion in North Wales.

We stay with the lane as it turns to the right to head back towards the A345 which we cross and join Pound Lane and follow it for quarter of a mile to a junction with the White Horse Trail footpath. Here we turn left through a kissing gate then head across a field of pasture to reach another kissing gate. The path now climbs steeply. It is a stiff ascent, but the views across the Vale of Pewsey are stunning.

Near the summit we see an Ordnance Survey rivet in a solid concrete block.

A little further on just over a fence is an Ordnance Survey trig point, I have previously bagged this one but it is Lynnie’s first time here.

The path now follows the fence line and passes through the promontory hill fort known as Giant’s Grave.

The White Horse trail continues along the ridge. After passing through a gate we continue following the way-markers. At a fork in the path we go right leaving the White Horse Trail to join the Mid Wilts Way. This runs along the edge of a field of pasture and then joins a path into woodland. We are now on Martinsell Hill and emerging from the trees we have stunning views.

We go through a gate and stop to look at a tree with ribbons tied on it as a memorial to lost loved ones.

Continuing along the top of the hill we stay with the way-markers for the Mid Wilts Way to pass around a copse and then at a junction of footpaths go right in an easterly direction, still on the Mid Wilts Way.

Turning around we get some stunning views of this impressive hill.

The path continues to a car park and after crossing a minor road joins Mud Lane.

We stay with this track for two miles heading east. There are paths leading off to the left and right, nearing a minor road we walk besides the route of the disused Midland and South Western Junction Railway. This section linked Marlborough to Swindon and was completed in 1883, it closed to passengers in 1961 and freight in 1970.

At the minor road we turn right and gradually descend downhill until we reach a driveway on our left to Brimslade. This tarmac drive continues steadily downhill to cross the Kennet and Avon Canal at Cadley Lock.

Now we turn right and follow the canal towpath heading west.

We stay with the towpath for almost a mile to reach a lock at Wootton Rivers.

After passing the lock keepers cottage we leave the canal and join a minor road where we turn left and soon go over the railway line at a bridge and then turn right at a road junction and take the road to Milton Lilbourne.

We follow this minor road through a hamlet, Cuckoo’s Knob. Soon we cross a stream and then as the road bends to the right we follow a footpath along a track heading south.

We stay with this track for just over half a mile to reach the B3087, Burbage Road, at the Bruce Arms pub.

We cross the road a join a footpath on the opposite side and continue to head south. This is fairly level walking through the Vale of Pewsey but I know we will soon be ascending steeply.

The path leads to a minor road and we continue uphill on the road.

This is a steady ascent; a couple of times we think we are near the top and then see there is more “up” to do. Eventually the road peters out at a junction of tracks besides the hard to spot remains of an old pump house. We turn right and go south west to a junction of paths where we turn right and head west to Milton Hill Clump. The map does not show this as a footpath but it is a well-worn route so we assume it is a permissive path.

We stay with this path passing Milton Hill Clump and reach access land on Fyfield Down. After going through the gate we turn left to head along the top of the downs, soon passing Giants Grave long barrow.

We continue along the ridge, enjoying stunning views across the vale, to reach Victory Clump. The path now descends gradually down Pewsey Hill to reach a crossing of paths.

Going over a stile we follow a path along the foot of Pewsey Hill until we are below the Pewsey White Horse chalk carving. The Pewsey White Horse dates back to 1937 when it was cut to commemorate the coronation of King George VI. There was an older white horse close to this site which was cut in 1785, but by the mid 1800’s it was said to be in bad repair. I had planned we walk up to the horse, but it is soon very clear that Lynnie is content to view it from here and is definitely not being persuaded otherwise.

We turn right along a footpath to reach a gate and then carry on along a track, Green Drove, until we reach a minor road where we turn right and follow this lane past farm buildings. At the end of the lane we turn left along Southcott Road which we follow for just over quarter of a mile and then turn left by some cottages to follow a path along a lane which leads us back to the centre of Pewsey.

Here there is a statue of King Alfred, crowned King of Wessex in 870 his land included the Vale of Pewsey. Apparently whilst he was at war the local inhabitants cared for his wife he rewarded them by granting the inhabitants the rights to a feast, this has been incorporated into the modern day carnival celebrations. The statue was unveiled in June 1913 to commemorate the coronation of King George V.

We continue along the High Street to reach the post office and return to our starting point.

Our walk has covered 15 miles through some stunning scenery.

To follow my walk, you will need Ordnance Survey Explorer Map OL157 Marlborough & Savernake Forest; OL131 Romsey, Andover & Test Valley; OL130 – Salisbury and Stonehenge

You can view this 15 mile walk on OS Maps and download the GPX File Here (Subscription to OS Maps Required)

14th July 2020

© Two Dogs and an Awning (2020)

July 14, 2020
On the Plain and in the Vale

It is interesting that we are staying in the caravan only half an hour’s drive from home and yet it feels like we are far from home in another part of the Country. After having our travel restricted for so long being in the Coachman again is a bit of a novelty.

We have decided to walk from our pitch at Charlton Manor CL today and on leaving the site we turn right to walk towards the village. Soon after crossing the River Avon we 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 was a pub and the building dates from the 1820’s, 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 has been changed.

We cross the A342 with care and join the track opposite, this is the Charlton Drove and we follow it making a long steady ascent.

The track passes barns and continues on to pass the Charlton Clumps trig pillar. We bagged this trig on our short walk yesterday so there is no need for a picture today. Soon after at a junction of tracks we 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.

As we head along the track we can hear the sound of firing in the distance and Lynnie seeks assurance that it is safe to be walking here. I point out that we are outside the restricted area so there is no problem.

Lynnie’s concerns are further fueled when we see signs warning against picking up shells and digging. I had not planned to partake in either activity!

The route is very easy to follow, we keep on the track with the MOD land to our left and pass Charlton Clumps. Out to our right there are wide ranging views across the Vale of Pewsey. In the far distance is the Alton Barnes White Horse.

As we walk the sound of gunfire becomes louder and I reassure Lynnie that we will be perfectly safe. As we reach a parking area near a hut we bump into a local chap and I mention Lynnie’s concerns. He helpfully recounts a story of how in 2014 a live shell went off course and landed in a farmer’s field near the Pewsey Vale village of Patney. This is below where we are standing and about 5 miles from the edge of the army range. According to the BBC’s report of the incident the MOD spokesman said “No one was injured and no property was damaged but all live firing has been suspended whilst we investigate”. Well that’s all right then!

Still heading along the track we spot soldiers on their exercise on the plain and signs of the shells exploding. I am surprised that given all the land they have they conduct exercises so close to the edge of the range. But thankfully today they appear to be firing into the range away from us.

We are now on Urchfont Hill following the route of the White Horse Trail, this trail is 100 miles long and visits all the Wiltshire White Horses. Early in the year, before the extent of the Covid-19 pandemic was clear I mapped out the route and hoped to identify four or five days in the spring to head off and do the walk. However, the pandemic has put pay to that, instead I am bagging the horses individually on day long circular walks.

We reach a junction of trails where the Wessex Ridgeway joins the White Horse Trail. We turn right to take the Wessex Ridgeway path as it descends into Urchfont on a bridleway.

On reaching the B3098 we join the pavement and turn right to walk into the village. and then turn into the High Street and continue to the village pond. Apparently this was first drawn on a map in 1784 and was in use as a watering hole for livestock until the 1930’s. It is now purely decorative.

We pass the pond and visit the church of St Michael and All Angels. Parts of this church date from the late 13th century and the tower was built in the fifteenth century. Restoration work was undertaken in 1864 and 1900. It is locked so we are unable to go inside, but like most churches there is a convenient bench for us to stop for lunch.

Resuming our walk we head back into the village, passing the pond and turn left into Friars Lane, we follow this lane, keeping right as it forks, to reach the edge of the village. After passing a new housing development we continue to the end of the lane on a footpath to reach arable fields.

At a minor road we cross and follow the route of a footpath across a field of corn. The route is clear on the map, but there is no clear path or way-markers and as we near the A342 there is no stile or gate exiting the field. It is not clear if the footpath has been closed or just neglected. I will have to follow this up with Wiltshire County Council and The Ramblers. Rather than go across the field again we follow its edge besides the A342 to reach Manor Farm where we turn right cross the main road close to a milestone. Apparently the stone was erected in the 19th century on the Lydeway turnpike. It has obviously been recently refurbished.

We take a footpath opposite, this soon turns to the north and then to the east.

We stay with it to a three way junction of paths. Here we take the middle footpath heading south east across arable fields to reach Wedhampton where we turn left on to Green Gate Road and walk through the village to join the High Street. After passing the village notice board and defibrillator we take the next left into Plum Lane.

At the end of the lane we continue heading east on a footpath across fields to reach a house with an old Victoria Letterbox on its wall on the edge of Connock.

We continue along the lane into the village and then by a notice board on the hedge of a thatched cottage turn left into a lane that soon becomes a path. We now head across fields to reach Chirton. In the village we turn left and walk through the village to pass the primary school and then pop into have a look at St John the Baptist Church.

From the church we continue through the village and as the road sweeps to the left into Patney Lane we take a lane in front which becomes a footpath. Our route is now across fields to reach Marden.

In Marden we cross a minor road and continue east on a footpath heading towards Wilsford. One of the fields we pass through has a strange crop we have not previously encountered. Later research reveals this to be quinoa.

In Wilsford we join a road and head east through the village to pass the village hall and church.

At a road junction we take the lane signposted to Hilcott. After passing the attractive farmhouse at Cuttenham farm we take a lane on the right.

In a hundred yards at a junction of paths we continue south to cross a stream and then head along the edge of a field. At the next crossing of paths we turn left and follow the path heading east. To our right on the opposite side of the road is a fine example of Strip Lynchets. This is an ancient field system created on downland to maximise the use of the land for agriculture.

Now we follow the path along the edge of the field with the Charlton Cat visible in front to the right.

It is only a short distance from here back to the edge of the village where we turn left and wander back to caravan site. Our walk has covered just over 14 miles and there have been some stunning views over the Vale of Pewsey and through attractive villages.

You can view this 14 mile walk on OS Maps and download the GPX file here.

To follow this walk you will need Ordnance Survey Explorer Map OL130 Salisbury & Stonehenge

Additional Information

For more information on this walk including car parking, amenities, refreshments and detailed walking directions visit my associated Walking Moonraker website.

13th July 2020

© Two Dogs and an Awning (2020)

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.

July 13, 2020