Walking The Ridgeway National Trail is a journey through ancient landscapes, historical sites, and picturesque English countryside. This 87-mile trail, which is often described as Britain’s oldest road, has been used by travelers for over 5,000 years. It stretches from Overton Hill near Avebury in Wiltshire to Ivinghoe Beacon in Buckinghamshire, offering walkers a chance to follow in the footsteps of the Neolithic and Bronze Age man, Romans, and Saxons.
Key Sections of The Ridgeway
- Avebury to Ogbourne St George – This initial section starts near the ancient stone circles at Avebury and passes through the rolling chalk downlands of Wiltshire.
- Ogbourne St George to Wantage – Continuing through open countryside, this section offers more extensive views and passes by the Uffington White Horse, a prehistoric hill figure.
- Wantage to Watlington – This stretch includes the segment through the Thames Valley and past the historic Ridgeway landmark of Grim’s Ditch.
- Watlington to Ivinghoe Beacon – The final stretch takes walkers through the more wooded and lush landscapes of the Chiltern Hills, ending at the prominent hill of Ivinghoe Beacon.
Highlights Along The Ridgeway
- Uffington White Horse: One of the oldest and most famous hill figures in Britain, located near Uffington Castle.
- Wayland’s Smithy: An impressive Neolithic long barrow and chamber tomb site.
- Barbury Castle: An Iron Age hill fort with commanding views of the surrounding plains.
- Avebury World Heritage Site: A Neolithic henge monument containing three stone circles, around the village of Avebury.
- Ivinghoe Beacon: Offering extensive views over the surrounding area, marking the trail’s eastern end.
Tips for Walking The Ridgeway
- Planning Your Trip: The trail can be completed in about 6-8 days if walking its entire length, or it can be tackled in shorter sections.
- Accommodation: There are various options along the route including bed and breakfasts, inns, and campsites. It’s advisable to book in advance, especially during peak walking seasons.
- Transport: Regular bus services run to many of the towns and villages along the route. Some sections are also accessible by train.
- Packing: Bring layers and waterproof clothing regardless of the season, as the weather can be unpredictable. Also, pack a detailed map and compass for navigation.
- Accessibility: While many sections of The Ridgeway are relatively easy to walk, some can be quite remote and rugged. It’s important to assess your fitness level and plan accordingly.
- Safety: Always let someone know your plan and expected return, especially when tackling more isolated stretches.
The Ridgeway is not just a walk through nature, but a passage through time, offering panoramic landscapes and a palpable sense of history underfoot. Whether you’re an ardent hiker looking for a multi-day adventure or a casual walker interested in historic sites, The Ridgeway provides a memorable and fulfilling experience.
The Ridgeway Map
The Ridgeway Interactive Map
6 Day Walking – The Ridgeway
| Stage | Starting Point | Distance (miles) | Ascend (feet) |
| Day 1 | Overton Hill to Ogbourne St George | 9.3 | |
| Day 2 | Ogbourne St George to Sparsholt Firs | 16 | |
| Day 3 | Sparsholt Firs to Streatley | 17.4 | |
| Day 4 | Streatley to Watlington | 15.3 | |
| Day 5 | Watlington to Wendover | 17 | |
| Day 6 | Wendover to Irvinghoe Beacon | 11.8 |
8 Day Walking – The Ridgeway
| Day | Location | Distance |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Avebury to Ogbourne St George exit | 9.5 miles/15 km |
| Day 2 | Ogbourne St George exit to Bishopstone exit | 8.5 miles/13.7 km |
| Day 3 | Bishopstone exit to Wantage exit | 10 miles/16.1km |
| Day 4 | Wantage exit to Goring Gap | 14.5 miles/23.2 km |
| Day 5 | Goring Gap to Watlington exit | 14.5 miles/23.2 km |
| Day 6 | Watlington exit to Lower Cadsden | 12.5 miles/20 km |
| Day 7 | Lower Cadsden to Aldbury | 13.5 miles/21.6 km |
| Day 8 | Aldbury to Ivinghoe Beacon and return to Aldbury | 8 miles/12.8 km |
OS Maps Required for The Ridgeway National Trail
The Ridgeway National Trail Related Books
