Two Dogs and an Awning

Tag: White Horse Trail

  • Wandering in the Vale of Pewsey

    Wandering in the Vale of Pewsey

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    11th June 2021

    © Two Dogs and an Awning (2021)

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

  • Windmill Hill and Avebury from Cherhill

    Windmill Hill and Avebury from Cherhill

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    10th June 2021

    © Two Dogs and an Awning (2021)

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

  • Back at Charlton Manor CL

    Back at Charlton Manor CL

    Following the lockdowns of 2020 and whilst still in the early stages of the Covid pandemic we made a short trip to Charlton Manor CL and had a good break.  The CL is only 30 minutes drive from home and yet whilst out walking it felt like we were in a totally different part of the Country and we began to appreciate what a beautiful, gem the Vale of Pewsey is.

    After our wet trip to the Cotswolds a couple of weeks ago we are ready for a dry sunny stay and the forecast for the week is good.  It does not take long for us to get set up and erect the awning.  Crosby and I are itching to get out for a walk so are soon ready to head off.

    Leaving the site I go through the farm and on reaching a track turn left and head north on the White Horse Trail, this long-distance path covers ninety miles and visits all eight of the Wiltshire White Horses.  During the course of 2020 I walked to all the White Horses but because of the pandemic had to do it as a series of days out.

    After half a mile I reach a junction of tracks and turn left to leave the White Horse Trail.  I continue along this hedge lined track for three quarters of a mile to reach a junction of paths where I turn left.  The path heads through a field to cross a stream and then heads along the edge of another field.  At a crossing of paths I continue straight on towards the A342.  On my left on the side of the chalk down is an ancient Strip Lynchets field system.

    Reaching the A342, besides Combe Cottage,  I cross the road and continue along a footpath opposite which soon starts to ascend the escarpment of the downs. 

    The clear path goes uphill and then continues between fields to reach the perimeter of the military firing range on Salisbury Plain.  

    I now turn left and follow a path heading south east towards a clump of trees in the distance.  This is one of the many groups of trees in this area marked on the map as Charlton Clumps.

    On reaching the trees I take a footpath along a track on the left and am once again on the White Horse Trail.  Soon on my right hand side is an Ordnance Survey trig pillar.  I have bagged this one a couple of times, it is in a cracking setting with good views across the Vale of Pewsey.

    The track I am on is Charlton Drove and it descends steadily with far ranging views in front of me.  Across the vale in the far distance is the Alton Barnes White Horse.  

    The drove leads back to the A342 opposite the Charlton Cat cafe, I cross carefully and take a path through a gate.  The Charlton Cat was a pub and the building dates from the 1820’s.  Apparently, it was originally the Red Lion, but by the 1920’s had become known locally as the Cat due to the poorly painted lion on its sign. So the name was changed. 

    I follow this path the short distance to the outskirts of Charlton St Peter, where I turn left and follow the track back to Charlton Manor CL.  This has been a cracking stroll in the late afternoon sunshine and has covered just under five miles. 

    You can view this 5 mile walk on OS Maps and download the GPX File Here

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

    6th June 2021

    © Two Dogs and an Awning (2021)

    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.

  • A White Horse and Moonrakers

    A White Horse and Moonrakers

    At the start of the year my walking buddy Mandy suggested we try to visit all the Wiltshire White Horses in 2020.  Normally this would not be too difficult to organize, however the travel restrictions around the Covid pandemic has made it more challenging.  Today we are setting off to the Pewsey Vale to bag the Alton Barnes White Horse and in the process also visit Milk Hill the second highest point in Wiltshire.

    The starting point for our walk is the free car park at Walkers Hill besides the road between Alton Barnes and Lockridge (Grid Ref: SU116638).  Leaving the car park we cross the road and go through a gate and then immediately take a gate on our left and follow the path to reach another gate.  In front of us is Walkers Hill but we take a path that goes to the right and gradually ascends to get fine view across the Pewsey Vale.

    The path is clear and easy to follow and we soon get a great view of the Alton Barnes White Horse.  Originally there were thirteen White Horses in Wiltshire, but now only eight remain. 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.  

    With the white horses at Pewsey, Devizes, Marlborough, Cherhill, Hackpen Hill, Broad Town and Westbury in the bag this one today completes the full set.  As we continue our walk on the path above the white horse we discuss which has been our favourite.  The most impressive is Westbury, but as that is now concrete we are not sure it really counts, on balance I favour Cherhill and we agree the most disappointing is Marlborough.

    We are following the route of the White Horse Trail and we stay with this as we head around the top of the downs enjoying stunning views.

    We are now on Milk Hill, the highest point in Wiltshire standing at 968 feet above sea level.  It is said to be 26 centimetres higher than its neighbour Tan Hill.  We stay with the White Horse Way until we reach a track where we turn left and then at a junction of paths continue heading west on a path that follows the impressive medieval earthworks.

    We stay with the path on the earthworks for just over a mile and then at a junction of paths turn left to follow a path heading south along the edge of a field.  The OS Map shows there is trig point just over the fence, but from research prior to setting out today I know that it has been moved to the south west corner of the field so we continue on the path until we reach a junction of fences and then take a brief detour to visit the relocated Tan Hill trig pillar.  

    This trig is the 232nd I have bagged.  It is disappointing it has been moved, but rather that than destroyed.  It is not the first I have come across that is not in its original location, but the views from here are still impressive and we can see the Cherhill Monument in the far distance.

    From the trig we head back to the path and follow this downhill through cattle to go through a gate to reach a junction of paths.

    We take the right fork following the path to meet a minor road at Cannings Cross Farm.  Here a notice states this is the site of the real Moonraker Pond.  Legend has it that in the 1780’s locals hid smuggled contraband in a pond to avoid the revenue men. Whilst retrieving it the revenue men arrived and the locals explained their activity by pointing to the moons reflection in the pond and saying they were trying to rake the big cheese from the pond. The revenue men laughed thinking them simple folk and went on their way.  The contraband was then retrieved.  This tale has led to people born in Wiltshire being known as Moonraker’s, a term that applies to both Mandy and I.  However, there are many ponds in Wiltshire claiming to have been the source of this tale and strangely there does not appear to be a pond marked on the map at Cross Cannings Farm.

    The footpath leads through the farm and then continues across fields.  To our right the map shows a long barrow so when we reach a track we turn right to make a slight detour to explore.  This is a modern Long Barrow built in 2014 to enable 340 people to have their ashes interned.  It has been aligned so that the sunrise of the winter solstice lights up the internal chamber.

    Returning to our route we go back along the track and then cross the Woodway Bridge over the Kennet and Avon Canal and immediately turn left to join the canal towpath.  Over recent years I have walked many sections of the canal, but this is new to me.  It appears a number of permanent barge dwellers are moored here.

    We stay with the towpath to pass under All Cannings Bridge (No.127) and continue on until we reach England’s Bridge (No.126).

    It is around lunchtime so we decide to leave the canal and cross the bridge to wander into Stanton St Bernard to visit the church and hopefully find a bench for lunch.  In the field beside the track we see a World War II pillbox.  This is one of the many pillboxes along the Kennet and Avon Canal and formed what was known as the Blue Line.  This was one of a number of “Stop Lines” that were established in the event of a German invasion during the war.

    We soon reach All Saints Church.  There was originally a church here in the 13th century which had a tower added in the 15th century.  In 1832 all the church apart from the tower was rebuilt.  As anticipated we find a bench in the churchyard which is an ideal spot to stop for our refreshments.

    The church is locked so we are unable to look inside.  It is not clear if it is locked due to concerns about Covid or for security.  Either way I find it odd that buildings traditionally providing people with a place for reflection and sanctuary are locked, especially at times when so many are struggling with the impact of the pandemic. We continue our walk and Mandy, who unlike me is a believer moans about the church hierarchy and its locked church policy.  I think a letter to the diocese will be winging its way soon after she returns home.

    Rather than retrace our steps to the canal we decide to walk through the village and rejoin it at Stanton Bridge.  This is straightforward and we keep right at every junction until we get to the canal where we rejoin the towpath heading east.  This soon leads us to the Barge Inn at Honeystreet.

    We now have over three miles on the canal towpath as it heads east.

    After two miles we reach the ornate Ladies Bridge built by John Rennie in 1808.  The design was at the behest of local land owner Susannah Wroughton and the reference to Ladies refers to her and her daughter, also named Susannah.

    Almost a mile from Ladies Bridge we reach 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 reach 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.  These ponds are a common feature on chalk downland.  They were dug out and lined with clay so they filled naturally with rainwater, thereby providing drinking water for the grazing livestock.  

    For the last couple of hours rain has threatened, now it arrives.  We are walking directly into the wind with no protection from the elements so we quickly don our full waterproofs.

    The route is now very straightforward, the well worn path leads us back to our starting point at the car park.  Despite the last half hour of rain our walk has been a cracking 15 mile route.  

    You can view this 15 mile walk on OS Maps and download the GPX File Here

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

    11th November 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.

  • Cherhill Monument from Roundway Hill

    Cherhill Monument from Roundway Hill

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    We walk through the ramparts towards the Lansdowne Monument. This is a popular spot so we take care to ensure we maintain a good social distance from all the families that are here.  The monument, which is known as the Cherhill Monument or Lansdowne Monument stands at 125 feet high and is a clear landmark.  It was erected in 1845 by the 3rd Marquis of Lansdowne to commemorate his ancestor Sir William Petty (1623-1687) and was designed by Sir Charles Barry, the architect of the Houses of Parliament.  Petty was the son of a cloth maker and studied to become Professor of Anatomy at Oxford.  He served as Physician General in Oliver Cromwell’s Army in Ireland and whilst there reportedly conducted the first land survey of the Country.  After the restoration of the Monarchy he was appointed a Commissioner of the Royal Navy by Charles II.  He was a founding member of the Royal Society and attained great wealth.  

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    29th July 2020

    © Two Dogs and an Awning (2020)

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

  • Walkers Hill from Pewsey

    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.

  • Thatch in the Pewsey Vale

    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.

  • A Morning Walk from Charlton Manor CL

    A Morning Walk from Charlton Manor CL

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    15th July 2020

    © Two Dogs and an Awning (2020)

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

  • Martinsell Hill and Milton Hill

    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)

  • On the Plain and in the Vale

    On the Plain and in the Vale

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

    We have decided to walk from our pitch at Charlton Manor CL today and on leaving the site we turn right to walk towards the village.  Soon after crossing the River Avon we take a lane on the right and then after a couple of hundred yards fork left to head uphill on a footpath to reach the Charlton Cat cafe. This was a pub and the building dates from the 1820’s, apparently, it was originally called the Red Lion, but by the 1920’s it had become known locally as the Cat due to the poorly painted lion on its sign, so the name has been changed. 

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

    The track passes barns and continues on to pass the Charlton Clumps trig pillar.  We bagged this trig on our short walk yesterday so there is no need for a picture today.  Soon after at a junction of tracks we turn right to follow a path besides the edge of the Ministry of Defence danger area.

    It was back in 1898 that the army first conducted training exercises on the plain and started acquiring land.  This continued until the 1940’s and now there is about 150 square miles of land with restricted access, or in some parts no access at all because of live firing.  

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Additional Information

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

    13th July 2020

    © Two Dogs and an Awning (2020)

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