Two Dogs and an Awning

Tag: Kennet and Avon Canal

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.

June 12, 2021
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.

June 11, 2021
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.

June 9, 2021
A Circuit To Etchilhampton Hill

We are nearly at the end of this short trip away, but there is still time for one more walk and an opportunity to bag a new Ordnance Survey trig pillar along the way. Visiting trig pillars has long been a feature of our walking, for years they were ancillary. If we happened to pass one along the way that was fine, but rarely did we make a special effort to reach one. However, a couple of years ago a Twitter buddy suggested I start logging them. Since then they have become a regular feature when planning my walks.

Once again our walk starts from the pay and display car park in Station Road close to the centre of Devizes. We leave the car park and turn left to walk up to a mini roundabout where we turn left crossing a canal bridge and then cross the road to take the towpath signed for Devizes Wharf. As we near the Wharf, which is on the opposite side, we fork away from the towpath going up steps to join a lane with a World War II Pill Box. 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.

We continue along the lane reaching the cemetery where we make a brief diversion to look around. This cemetery was opened in 1878 and over the years has been extended a number of times.

Back on the lane we cross the canal bridge and stop to look at Devizes Wharf. In normal circumstances I imagine this is a must stop spot with its cafe, museum and theatre but today it is quiet. Back in the days when the canal was in use as a trading route this would have been a major hub for goods coming in and out of the thriving town.

We rejoin the towpath and head east through Devizes. The Kennet and Avon canal goes between Reading and Bristol, 87 miles of waterway, the section from Reading to Newbury follows close to the River Kennet and from Bath to Bristol is close to the River Avon. It was designed and built by John Rennie between 1794 and 1810.

Like most canals this one suffered competition from the railways and the opening of the Great Western Railway in 1841 removed most of its traffic. By 1852 GWR had taken over control of the canal and increased tolls significantly to persuade the remaining traffic to move to the railway. Then in 1925 GWR sought to close the canal all together but by then pleasure boats had started to use it.

After World War II the Transport Act 1947 saw the canal transfer to the British Transport Commission, under their stewardship the canal fell into decline with large sections becoming unnavigable. In 1962 the charitable company the Kennet & Avon Canal Trust was established and they immediately started work on restoring sections and by 2003 the canal was fully navigable again.

We continue to walk through this section of the canal to reach Devizes Marina.

Now the canal heads into open countryside. Whilst I find it interesting walking towpaths through towns I much prefer it when it is less built up, so this section is a pleasant relief and the towpath is a lot quieter.

At Horton Bridge, with the Bridge Inn besides it, we leave the canal and join the road sign posted to Coate and Little Horton.

This lane heads south, initially following the route of the canal, after passing an overgrown World War II pillbox it leaves the canal. The route now follows the straight country lane to reach Little Horton and continues on to pass the smart looking cricket ground in Coate. At a cross roads we pass the bus shelter with the telephone kiosk beside it now housing a defibrillator.

Now we continue to head south through the village on the Etchilhampton Road and pass the car park of the New Inn pub, our route is still on the Etchilhampton Road but first we pop up the lane to have a look at the pub for future reference. I always take the view that if a pub looks cared for outside there is every chance it is well worth popping in. This is adorned with flowers and looks a delight, so when things are a bit safer we will return here to sample the food and ale.

Back on Etchilhampton Road we continue out of the village still heading south. The road starts to ascend and we get a good view of Tan Hill and the Alton Barnes White Horse. It was only a few weeks ago that we walked there whilst staying in Charlton St Peter.

At the brow of the hill we leave the road and take a bridleway on the right which follows a broad grass track heading steadily uphill.

As we ascend there are fine views across the Vale of Pewsey. Until earlier this year I had not walked in this area, it has now become a favourite local spot.

The path now runs besides a fence continuing up to the top of Etchilhampton Hill.

At the top of the hill besides the path is an Ordinance Survey trig pillar, this is the 212th I have bagged.

From the trig we follow the track descending the hill and on reaching a crossing of tracks turn left to reach a minor road. Our route is straight across but first I make a quick detour by turning right and walking downhill for a few hundred yards to the junction with the A342 to have a look at the monument on the junction which is a lion on a plinth. I have driven by this many times but never known why it is here.

The monument commemorates James Long, he lived in Devizes and in 1768 he promoted a new road to connect Nursteed in Devizes to Lydeway in Urchfont. The route he proposed avoided the steep slopes of Etchilhampton Hill and was therefore a much easier journey for horses, oxen and the drovers. Local folklore has it that when the clock on St James Church in Devizes strikes midnight the lion leaves the plinth and visits a farm pond in nearby Stert to quench his thirst.

I walk back up the hill to the crossing of paths and find Lynnie and Crosby sat in the shade of a tree. It is a very hot afternoon and both decided there was little benefit in adding any distance to their walk!

We now head across the road and follow the track down to the A342 which we cross and take the lane into Stert. In the village we head towards the church and then at a fork in the road go left downhill. After a few hundred yards the road becomes a track and we follow this down to reach a footpath leading over a stream.

After crossing the foot bridge we turn right and start with the path that leads through Stert Valley with the stream to our right. On reaching a junction with Sleight Lane we turn left heading towards Sleight Farm.

The harvest is well under way and the dust from the combines billows across the tracks ahead and the tractors coming down the lane show little sign of slowing as they pass. There is rain forecast for later, but the few seconds it would take to slow to a reasonable speed to pass pedestrians would not make any difference to how quickly the grain is stored.

At a junction of tracks we turn right, thankfully walking away from the fields that are being harvested.

This track leads north towards Devizes and as we near the outskirts of the town we pass a skatepark and football pitches to join Green Lane. We stay with this road as it heads through a residential area and then becomes pedestrianised. At a road junction we turn left and follow the pavement to a mini roundabout where we cross to join Wick Lane. We walk on the pavement besides the lane to reach a junction with the Potterne Road where we turn right and then after a hundred yards take a footpath on the left.

The footpath leads to Queens Road where we turn left and walk to the junction with Hartmoor Road. We turn right and head to the junction with Hillworth Road. Crossing the road we follow the footpath along the edge of the grounds of Devizes Castle.

This path brings us to St John’s churchyard and from here we wander into the town. We set off on our walk in mid afternoon to avoid the hottest part of the day, so it is now early evening and it is pleasant to wander around the town. Few folk are about so it is an ideal time to look at some of the stunning old buildings.

If we were not in the midst of a pandemic we might have stopped in one of the pubs for a bite to eat and a pint, we have earned it having walked almost twelve miles on a hot day. But we are being extremely cautious and also should get back to the caravan to pack up for our trip home tomorrow. With overnight rain forecast we need to get the awning down before it gets wet!

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

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

30th 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 30, 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
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
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
Three OS Trigs and The Pewsey White Horse

Now that the lock down restrictions have been lifted I am starting to undertake some walks a bit further from home. I am not driving far, but within twenty miles of home there are numerous places I haven’t walked. Earlier in the year I made plans with my walking buddy Mandy to visit all the Wiltshire White Horses in 2020. We ticked off Cherhill and Devizes before the lockdown and today plan to “bag” the Pewsey White Horse.

Despite living very close to Mandy we drive in separate cars to our starting point 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 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 lane 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 Kennett 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.

We cross a track and go through a kissing gate then head across a field of pasture to reach another kissing gate. The path now climbs steeply. This 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, this is the 202nd I have bagged.

The path now follows the fence line and passes through the promontory hill fort known as Giants 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.

After going through a gate we make a brief diversion into the woodland on the left to reach my 203rd Ordnance Survey trig point.

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. The first fifty yards along this lane demonstrates why it is so named, but then thankfully the ground becomes firmer.

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. After crossing the canal bridge we turn left on the towpath to immediately pass Cadley Lock.

This is a section of the Kennet & Avon I have not walked and we are soon at the attractive Burbage Wharf. This wharf was built in 1831 by the Earl of Ailesbury who owned Savernake Forest. The wharf was a key point for loading and unloading barges with timber, coal and farm produce. To enable this a large wooden crane was built. In 1970 it was discovered that the crane was unsafe and needed replacement. The original ironwork was saved and the wood replaced to recreate the original.

I have passed the wharf numerous times on the road, but this is the first time that I have been able to really appreciate the buildings. We continue along the towpath and find ourselves at the western end of the Bruce Tunnel.

Construction on this 502 yard tunnel started in 1803 and was completed in 1809. It stands at the highest point on the canal. It is named after the Earl of Ailsebury, Thomas Brundenell-Bruse. He would not allow a cutting through his land and insisted that a tunnel was built. There is no towpath through the tunnel so in the days of horse drawn barges, the horses were walked over the hill and the barges were hand pulled through the tunnel on chains on the inside walls.

Our route follows the path across the top of the hill. The main Paddington to Penzance railway line also runs across the top of this hill and as we go over a train flashes by. On the far side of the tunnel the path descends steeply to rejoin the towpath. Above the entrance on this eastern side is an inscription which reads “The Kennet and Avon Canal Company Inscribe this tunnel with the Name of Bruce In Testimony of the Gratitude for the uniform and effectual Support of the Right honourable THOMAS BRUCE EARL of AILESBURY and CHARLES LORD BRUCE his Son throughout the whole Progress of this great National Work by which direct communication by Water was opened between the Cities of London and Bristol ANNO DOMINI 1810.”

We now continue along the canal for just over half a mile to reach Wolfhall Bridge. We leave the towpath here and follow a track up to Wolfhall Farm and then turn right along the minor road in front of Wolfhall Manor. This house has a long history dating back to the 11th century, but 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 edge of a playing field on the outskirts of Burbage. We stop here on a bench for our lunch, this playing field is used by Burbage and Easton Royal Cricket Club, it looks like they have used the opportunity of no cricket to reseed the outfield, but as things stand I would not want to be playing on it anytime soon.

After lunch we resume our walk by returning to the track and taking a footpath heading south easterly towards the A338. This path crosses a stream and then goes through a copse to reach the main road where we turn left and walk along the broad verge for a hundred yards and then take a footpath on the right to head south east besides an arable field.

At a junction of paths we turn right, heading south to reach the edge of Southgrove Copse, we turn right and follow a path along the edge of the woodland. At a junction with another path we turn left to follow it through the copse.

After passing farm buildings we join a farm track and head towards the A338. Near the main road we pass discarded a discarded set of spring harrows in a field gateway.

At the A338 we turn left and walk a couple of hundred yards besides this busy road and are grateful when we reach a drove on our right besides a small car park. This heads steadily uphill away from the main road and we are soon out in open countryside again. I have driven along the A338 numerous times but never really appreciated the countryside around here. It is a cracking place to walk.

The drove continues upwards passing Crowdown Clump and on to Falstone Pond where we continue heading in a southerly direction to reach the edge of Ministry of Defence land. We turn right and follow a drove along the edge of the MOD land. The rutted track is not the easiest of walking terrains, however, the views compensate for this.

At a junction of tracks close to a minor road and the ruins of an old pump house we turn left and go south west to a junction of paths where we turn right and head north to Milton Hill.

We carry on at a crossing with a permissive path to reach the edge of access land. Now we turn left and head along the top of Fifield Down. There is a stunning example of a medieval field system known as Strip Lynchets below us.

Staying on the top of the downs we reach a gate on the left and make a slight diversion here to visit the Ordnance Survey trig point in Milton Clump.

Having bagged the trig we retrace our steps to the gate on the downs and after going through turn left to continue along the top of the downs, soon passing Giants Grave long barrow.

We continue along the ridge with its stunning views across the vale to reach Victory Clump. The path now descends gradually down the 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. Our planned route is to take a right turn back towards Pewsey, but before doing so we decide to walk up to the edge of the White Horse to take a closer look. I am never sure whether ascending or descending is most demanding on these steep chalk downs. Going up is tough on the calf and thigh muscles whereas heading down is hard on the knees. But the trip up this hill is well worth it.

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.

Back down the hill we continue on a path to reach a gate and then carry on along a track, Green Drove, until we almost reach the A345. Here we turn right and walk through a residential area and then take a footpath on the left that leads to the River Avon. After crossing a bridge we pass the Old School House and then turn right to head back through the village to reach the Post Office and turn left to the car park and our starting point.

Our walk has covered 21 miles through some stunning scenery. Hopefully it will not be too long before I am walking around here again.

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 21 mile walk on OS Maps and download the GPX file here

Additional Information

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

20th May 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.

May 20, 2020
Bagging Cherhill and Devizes White Horses

Earlier in the year my walking buddy Mandy suggested we try and visit every white chalk horse in Wiltshire as part of our 2020 walks. At the time it seemed an easy task, but with the current developments around the Covid-19 pandemic this might become more challenging. The current guidance from the government is unclear, other countries have restricted travel but at the moment no such measures have been introduced.

The starting point for our walk is the large car park on Station Road (SN10 1BZ). We start our walk by walking back along Station Road to reach the Market Place with its magnificent Market cross built in 1814.

We cross the Market Place and wander through the covered market and continue along the road to reach the A361, we cross by the Caste Hotel and turn right to follow the A361 and then besides a roundabout turn left into Commercial Road. At a mini roundabout opposite the Community Hospital we turn right and head down New Park Road. On reaching the Kennet and Avon Canal we turn right to walk along the tow path to reach the London Road Bridge.

We are walking by the back of houses and out of the town and soon pass under Coate Road Bridge.

I always enjoy walking besides canals and have long thought about walking the route that goes from Westminster to Bristol following the Thames towpath to Reading and then picking up the Kennet and Avon canal to Bristol. The whole walk is around 165 miles long of which 90 miles is along the canal. During our travels I have walked various sections of this canal, but this stretch today is new to me. We now pass Devizes Marina.

We continue under Laywood Bridge and are now out in open countryside. The next bridge we reach is the Horton Road Bridge with the Bridge Inn sat beside it.

On reaching the Bishop Cannings Swing Bridge we leave the tow path and cross the canal to take a farm track towards Bishop Cannings.

The track leads us by the entrance to Court Farm Caravan site. Both Mandy and I are caravanners so we stop to look, but the site would not suit me as it does not have electric hook ups. We stay on the track and then join a minor road for a short distance before turning left to walk down a lane to visit the church of St Mary the Virgin.

After looking at the church we return to the minor road and head straight across to join a footpath that goes across fields towards Bourton. The streams in this area are the source of the River Avon, which flows south from here and is a substantial river by the time it gets to the other side of Salisbury just over twenty miles way. At a junction of paths we turn left and walk into Bourton soon joining a minor road. At a junction we turn right and follow the country lane to a fork in the road at a post-box. We go left and follow this track as it heads steadily upwards towards the downs. At the end of the lane there is a fork in the track. We go left heading westwards and stay on this path, which does not appear to be frequently used, until we reach the A361.

We cross the main road and take a footpath opposite which continues uphill to reach a road where we turn right and walk besides it. There is no pavement so we are cautious of traffic, after going over the brow of the hill we ignore a bridleway on the left, instead we continue a few hundred yards downhill to reach Hill Barn Cottages. Here we take a footpath along a track which passes through the farm buildings and then continues north with Furze Knoll on the downs in front of us.

At a crossing of paths we turn right and go in a north easterly direction along a drove.

After crossing the Wansdyke Path we carry straight on to pass the entrance to Baltic Farm. After three quarters of a mile we turn left on a footpath and head north crossing a footpath that runs along a Roman Road. We have joined the Wessex Ridgeway and White Horse Trail which we follow uphill towards the Lansdowne Monument at Cherhill.

Passing through a gate we enter access land and continue uphill. To our left is the impressive bowl in Calstone Down. Mandy and I recently did a map reading and navigation course, part of which featured the use of contour lines for navigation. This is certainly a good area to compare the map to the landscape in front of us.

We follow the path up to the Iron Age hill fort of Oldbury Castle, we turn left and follow the path through the ramparts towards the Lansdowne Monument.

This monument, also known as the Cherhill 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.

We use the monument to shelter from the chilly wind whilst we eat our lunch. On my walks I have stopped to eat my sandwiches and soup in some stunning locations, this must rank in the top ten.

From here we head off on the northern side of the monument and immediately see the Cherhill White Horse. This is the second oldest of the remaining eight white horses in Wiltshire. It was first cut in 1780 and over the years has been scoured a few times, most recently in 2002 when it is reported that one hundred and sixty tonnes of new chalk were added.

We decide to view the white horse from lower down so walk around the top of it and then descend steadily on a path to the northern edge of the access land where we turn left. From here the horse looks stunning.

The route we take follows the fence line along the northern edge of the access land to reach a drove. Here we turn left and walk uphill and after going through a gate turn right to follow a path descending across access land. At a crossing of paths we turn left and head south to reach a track. We turn left and then immediately take a path on the right that follows a track to cross the River Marden.

Soon after crossing the river at a junction of paths we turn right to pass South Farm and then take a footpath on the left that heads uphill through muddy paddocks and then carries on across fields to a copse.

The map shows the path going diagonally over the next field, however the route appears to have been diverted to go along the edge of the field where we continue steeply uphill. At a fork in the track we go left and 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 Wiltshire Constabulary for radio communications and in recent years has been used for mobile phone telecommunications.

We carry on to reach the impressive Wansdyke which we cross to make a brief diversion to Furze Knoll. We follow the fence line and then pop through a gate to cross the stubble to reach the damaged trig point on the top of the hill. This is the 198th I have “bagged”.

After bagging the trig point we retrace our steps to the Wansdyke and turn left to 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 dyke path until we reach a footpath on the left that heads across the North Wilts Golf Course. This is the route of Mid Wilts Way and the Wessex Ridgeway. The signs across the course are clear and we pass the clubhouse and cross a road to join a drove heading south.

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. As we walk along on this sunny spring afternoon it is difficult to imagine this was once the site of a bloody battle.

After passing a parking area near a plantation we start to descend and soon join a minor road and then follow a permitted path that runs down the side of the field parallel to the road. On the hill behind us is the Devizes White Horse, it is the most recent of the Wiltshire White Horses and was cut in 2000 to mark the Millennium. It is the only one of the remaining eight Wiltshire White Horses to face to the right, there are only three others in the Country that look to the right.

The path leads into Roundway where we stay with the road heading south, leaving the hamlet we take a footpath on the right, at a junction of paths we go left and head back towards Devizes. This path is known as Quakers’ Walk, apparently it goes back over 700 years with the gates at the southern end marking the edge of the Roundway Estate.

Interestingly the website for Devizes Quakers suggests the route was originally called Keepers Walk because the house by the gates was occupied by the park Deer Keeper. However, it became the route that the Quakers living in nearby Bishops Cannings took to walk into Devizes. Now the name is also associated with a large housing development which borders the edge of the walk.

After passing the gates we reach Park Bridge over the Kennet and Avon Canal, this is the point where we started our walk along the canal. Now we follow the road into the centre of Devizes and from the Market Square return to the car park in Station Road.

Our walk has covered 18 miles and we have enjoyed some stunning views and interesting countryside along the way. Now that we have bagged our first two white horses of the year it is time to start planning trips to the other six dotted around Wiltshire.

You can view this 18 mile walk on OS Maps and download the GPX File Here

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

Additional Information

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

13th March 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.

March 13, 2020