Britain’s oldest ‘road’ cleaves its way through the heart of England and has been in constant use for 5000 years. The Ridgeway walk follows the chalk hills between Avebury in Wiltshire and Tring in Buckinghamshire – part of a busy Neolithic ‘highway’ that stretched across the country from Dorset to Norfolk.
Highlights
The 87-mile Ridgeway National Trail is often called Britain’s oldest road, used for over 5,000 years. It follows ancient chalk ridges from Overton Hill near Avebury to Ivinghoe Beacon, offering far-reaching views over rolling countryside. The trail is well-signposted and passes through quaint villages and market towns, providing opportunities to rest and stock up on supplies. Our itineraries follow the prevailing wind, easing progress on exposed sections. The route consists mostly of gentle walking along ridges and chalk valleys, passing through fields, woodlands, and farmland. While the North Wessex Downs introduce some steeper climbs, the reward is breath-taking hilltop views, making this a manageable yet rewarding long-distance walk.
Starting at Overton Hill, the Ridgeway follows chalk ridges through the North Wessex Downs before descending to the Thames Valley and rising into the Chiltern Hills, ending at Ivinghoe Beacon. The route includes prehistoric landmarks, such as Avebury Stone Circle, Barbury Castle, and the Uffington White Horse. It later passes Wayland’s Smithy, an ancient burial site, before continuing through rolling farmland and peaceful woodland. The Thames crossing at Goring provides a scenic mid-point before the landscape shifts towards the Chilterns. Terrain is mostly gentle, with some short, steep climbs, particularly towards the final stages. The walk concludes at Ivinghoe Beacon, offering sweeping views over the surrounding countryside.
The Ridgeway’s historical significance sets it apart, having been used by traders, invaders, and travellers for millennia. In the Dark Ages, Saxons and Vikings moved along this route during battles for Wessex. The trail also runs close to some of Britain’s most mysterious landmarks, including the Uffington White Horse, thought to be over 3,000 years old. The Ridgeway is known for crop circle sightings, adding an air of mystery to the landscape. Walking this trail is more than just a scenic journey—it’s a step back in time, with every stretch of the path revealing connections to Britain’s ancient past.
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If you wish to upgrade your overnight accommodation on occasion, we will be happy to arrange this wherever availability allows – prices to be advised. Looking for different mileages or a different number of nights? Please contact us to discuss how our itineraries can be adjusted to meet your specific needs.
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One of the highlights of walking through The Chilterns, is the fantastic view from the crest of hills towards the surrounding countryside. The last walking day of both itineraries features a circular walk up to Ivinghoe Beacon from Aldbury.
The viewpoint and landmark has featured in many big budget blockbusters, by virtue of the location's sense of drama and remoteness (as well as its convenient location near Elstree studios).
Dating from over 4,000 years ago, the world-famous stone circle at Avebury is one of the defining artefacts of prehistoric Britain. The nearby village of Avebury is worth a visit too, with a fine manor house (the Alexander Keiller Museum), the St. James church and the beautiful setting of its thatched cottages and rustic pubs.
The village of Avebury is at the beginning of our walking itineraries on The Ridgeway. If you'd like to spend an extra day in the village, let us know and we'll arrange a rest day in the parish, giving you time to explore the surrounding area.
If you wish to upgrade your overnight accommodation on occasion, we will be happy to arrange this wherever availability allows – prices to be advised. Looking for different mileages or a different number of nights? Please contact us to discuss how our itineraries can be adjusted to meet your specific needs.
If you wish to upgrade your overnight accommodation on occasion, we will be happy to arrange this wherever availability allows – prices to be advised. Looking for different mileages or a different number of nights? Please contact us to discuss how our itineraries can be adjusted to meet your specific needs.
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