We are the West Berkshire Ramblers. We open the way for everyone in our local community to enjoy the pleasures of walking.
Neil L.
Circular 12 mile route.
We meet at the layby on the A4 near Harrow Farm, Froxfield. Initially we loop to the south, pivoting on Upper Horseshall Hill farm, passing through Knowle farm (note remains of chapel integrated into the farm buildings) to head north and across the A4 towards Axford. We will pause at some Chapel ruins near Axford farm for a mid-morning break.
Unseen, but lying to our right (East), is the former WWII airfield, RAF Ramsbury. As we progress east and south, we will encounter some relics of the airfield but much has been dismantled since 1955.
After our break, we proceed past Ramsbury Manor Park and cross the River Kennet to make our way to the north of Ramsbury village, returning to the high street and Holy Cross church (present structure is dated 13th C), where we pause for lunch. Note that we are near to the Roman road, which connected London to Bath. As an historical footnote, Ramsbury dates back to the Doomsday Book, and at one time had 10 corn mills.
We return to Harrow farm via Atherton Coppice, Great Coppice and Bottom Coppice. Our final landmark will be Rudge Farm before descending back towards the A4 and our vehicles .
The walk is mostly on good gravel tracks, field paths and some metalled roads. There are however some field margins, which are potentially muddy due to positioning of water troughs and being 'puddled' by livestock.
There is a 1,000ft of ascent / descent and this is most notable in two sections, one significant ascent is immediately post lunch. Mostly fields / downland and woodland, please note that there are short sections of road walking (alongside A4) and a requirement to cross the A4 twice.
There are 8 stiles, all bar one in the first section. Some stiles are 'irregular', see photo.
The walk is limited to 16 participants, please carry sufficient food / drink and register via the web link by 6pm Wednesday 21st January.
Meet at the layby on the A4, near to Harrow Farm
