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Alton Group

We are the Alton 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
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Overview

Starting by descending to the wetlands of  Thatcham Reedbeds, we will then walk along a beautiful stretch of the Kennet and Avon Canal before a gentle climb back up to Crookham and Greenham Commons. These commons have a fascinating history having been used as an military airfield in WW2, then a Cold War American nuclear weapons base and site of the women's peace camp and since 1997 as public parkland and SSSI (Site of Special Scientific Interest). Our walk will pass remains of the infrastructure from its military past and will finish at the Greenham Common Control Tower, which is now a cafe and museum offering panoramic views over the common (free - donations welcome).

Sunday, 12 October 2025
Meeting time:
8:50 am
Start time:
10:00 am
Estimated finish time:
3:00 pm
Difficulty:
Leisurely
Distance:
16.1km / 10.0mi
Ascent:
67.1m / 220ft
Type:
circular

The walk is generally on good paths but may be wet after rain. Bring drinks, morning snack and lunch. There is a cafe and toilets at the end of the walk.

Features

  • Refreshments available (Pub/cafe)
  • Toilets available
  • Car parking available
  • Car sharing available

Meeting point

Grid reference:
SU 72376 39877
Nearest postcode:
GU34 2QX
what3words:
fruity.pounces.seats
Meeting time:
8:50 am

Alton Health Centre rear car park. Sundays only. By permission of the Health Centre. Leader will be at start point. Please let leader know in advance if you need a lift

Starting point

Grid reference:
SU 49901 65071
Nearest postcode:
RG19 8DB
what3words:
visit.most.motel
Start time:
10:00 am

Greenham Common Control Tower Car Park, Bury's Bank Road (suggested donation to Wildlife Trust £3 per car payable by card at machine). If coming from Crookham Hill, continue along Bury's Bank Road across two cattle grids until you reach a roundabout where you turn left into the carpark.

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