Book 2 Walk 9: Kintbury Circular – Exploring the North Wessex Downs t=2.9
Distance: 14.3 miles or 23 km for those more metrically minded (it is possible to shorten the route by 5.5 km/3.4 miles)
Difficulty: 3 out of 10
Train: Take the 9:07 AM Great Western Newbury train from London Paddington, arriving at Kintbury at 10:17 AM (changing at Newbury 9:58 arrival/10:11 departure). Return trains from Kintbury are at 16:51 (change Newbury); 17:50 (change Newbury/Reading); 18:51 (change Newbury); 19:53 (change Newbury/Reading); and 20:45 (change Newbury). Buy a day return to Kintbury.
This walk explores the North Wessex Downs which have a decidedly West Country feel – although being only slightly over an hour from London. The route ambles gently through some idyllic woods and pastures; then makes a steep climb up onto the Downs before dropping back into the valley back to Kintbury. You can find more information about the walk and download the walk instructions here. Make sure to bring the instructions for BOTH the main walk and the circular option, as they are designed to work together!
The recommended lunch pub is the Crown and Garter (01488 668 325) in Inkpen Common (8.3 miles/13.5 km into the walk), an upmarket looking country pub, serving food until 2:30PM. Tea and other post walk refreshies can be had at the very pleasant Dundas Arms along the canal near Kintbury Station.
Enjoy the walk!