We are the Berkshire Weekend Walkers. We open the way for everyone in our local community to enjoy the pleasures of walking.
The walk is quite varied and starts by crossing over the river Kennet and the Kennet & Avon Canal and following the canal in the direction of Kintbury for just under a kilometre before heading south and skirting the edge of an urban area of Newbury. We then join the Berkshire Circular Route for a small stretch, enjoying the view to the north of Newbury and Donnington Castle, and passing the site of the first battle of Newbury, 1643.
There are small stretches of lane walking but the majority of the walk is on footpaths through fields or parkland. After crossing the A34 on a footbridge we quickly reach the tranquil Pightle Nature Reserve which is a rare example of a Medieval flower rich meadow and now looked after by BBONT.
Shortly afterwards we enter the Hamstead Marshall estate which is fast becoming a favourite of BWW walks. It is such a beautiful estate that we'll pause for a lunch break on a convenient log.
After lunch we will rejoin the canal and head back towards Newbury enjoying the tranquility of the water and surrounding nature. The final leg of the walk will be the Speen Moors route back to the leisure centre which provides a nice flat even surface for tired legs.
Meet for a 10:15 start at the Goldwell Park car park, opposite Northcroft Leisure Centre on Northcroft Lane. (Parking costs £2 for 6 hours and Pay-by-Phone code 7193. If you are coming by train to Newbury the meeting point is approximately 1.6km walk from the station.
There will be an opportunity to change our of boots at the car park before heading into Newbury to the Lock Stock and Barrel pub for those people who would like a sociable drink to been included in the day.
Please bring a packed lunch and water as usual.
Goldwell Park car park, Northcroft Lane, Newbury
