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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 is predominantly a downland walk of approx 12.5 miles with great views to both the north and south from the start. We initially head east along the Ridgeway before turning south, downhill alongside Sheep Down, to reach West Ilsley for a coffee stop by the duck pond. We continue south before turning north west along a mix of shady trails and open farmland, towards Farnborough, with a lunch stop along the way. After stopping to admire the Manor House and church in Farnborough, we continue north to rejoin the Ridgeway back to the start.

The route is typically along wide downland paths and well maintained farm tracks and, following a long dry spell, the going underfoot should be good. That said much of this walk is across open downland so please check the weather forecast and bring appropriate clothing. There are two gates and no stiles with 260m of ascent/descent, all relatively gradual.  

Thursday, 15 May 2025
Start time:
9:30 am
Estimated finish time:
2:45 pm
Difficulty:
Moderate
Distance:
20.3km / 12.6mi
Ascent:
260m / 853ft
Type:
circular

Please bring food and drink for the day to include coffee and lunch stops.

This walk is limited to 16 so please use the website link, before 6.00pm on Wednesday14th, to reserve your place.

 

Features

  • Car parking available
  • Car sharing available
  • No Stiles

Starting point

Grid reference:
SU 41834 84141
Nearest postcode:
OX12 8PA
what3words:
paradise.townhouse.bleaker
Start time:
9:30 am

Please meet in the parking area which is on the Ridgeway just off the B4494 Wantage Road. This is a popular dog walkers parking area so please car share where possible and park considerately. Double parking is possible if necessary.

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