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West Berkshire Group

We are the West Berkshire Ramblers. We open the way for everyone in our local community to enjoy the pleasures of walking.

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Join the Ramblers and enjoy

  • unlimited free access to 50,000 Ramblers group walks
  • a library jam-packed with thousands of tried-and-tested routes
  • a welcome pack teeming with top tips plus our Walk magazine
  • exclusive discounts from our partners
  • knowing your support is opening up more places to walk and helping more people discover the joy of walking

Overview

This 6.9 mile circular  walk starts from Greenham Common Control Tower and heads down into the Kennet Valley to explore the southern outskirts of Thatcham. After leaving the car park, we cross Bury's Bank Road and head north via Bowdown Farmhouse to Bull's Lock on the Kennet and Avon Canal. From here we walk through Thatcham Reed Beds before turning east and skirting the southern and eastern edges of Thatcham Lakes on our way to St Mary's Church, where we'll pause for a mid-walk break. We then head south via Spurcroft Primary School and Kennet Heath, before crossing the railway and the canal and returning to Greenham Common via Chamberhouse Farm.

Tuesday, 30 December 2025
Start time:
10:00 am
Estimated finish time:
1:15 pm
Difficulty:
Moderate
Distance:
11.1km / 6.9mi
Ascent:
70.4m / 231ft
Type:
circular

There are no stiles, and, apart from a flight of steps to cross the railway, the only significant hill is the relatively short climb back up onto Greenham Common towards the end of the walk. Conditions underfoot shouldn't be too bad, but there are likely to be some puddles and a few patches of mud to negotiate, so please bring suitable footwear. Please also be aware of the weather forecast on the day and wear appropriate clothing. Please bring refreshments for the mid-walk break. There is no limit on numbers for this walk, so, if you'd like to join us, please book online by 6.00 pm on Monday 29 December.

Features

  • Car parking available
  • No Stiles

Starting point

Grid reference:
SU 49915 65106
Nearest postcode:
RG19 8DB
what3words:
piper.courier.total
Start time:
10:00 am

Please park in the car park at the Greenham Common Control Tower.

Join the Ramblers and enjoy

  • unlimited free access to 50,000 Ramblers group walks
  • a library jam-packed with thousands of tried-and-tested routes
  • a welcome pack teeming with top tips plus our Walk magazine
  • exclusive discounts from our partners
  • knowing your support is opening up more places to walk and helping more people discover the joy of walking