Pewsey Circular walk

26.7 km (16.6 miles)

OS Landranger 173; Explorer 157

7 out of 10.

This is an exhilarating excursion through the solitude of the Vale of Pewsey, which separates the chalk upland of the North Wessex Downs to the north from that of Salisbury Plain to the south, including an ascent up the southerly hill chain of the Marlborough Downs, from where there are stunning far views in all directions over this land of wave-like hills, with its scarps, ridges and valleys. It is a mysterious landscape, full of pre-historic earthworks and hillforts as well as barrows – burial mounds of kings and warriors. Part of the walk leads along the Wansdyke – an earth bank and deep ditch running east to west – which sporadically links Bristol to Marlborough. It was built by the beleaguered Romano-British Celts – after being deserted by the Romans in the 5th century – as a fortification to stem the Saxon advance. From there it is just a short walk to Wiltshire’s highest peak (Milk Hill) with its stunning steep serrated Down and then to the Alton Barnes White Horse – cut into the hillside in 1812. After a scenic descent into the Vale of Pewsey, an undemanding stretch along the Kennet & Avon Canal leads back to Pewsey with its tea options.

Shortcuts reduce the rating of this walk to 6/10 or even 5/10.

Trains go from Paddington to Pewsey, journey time just over one hour.

Please note that Pewsey is just outside the London & South East Network railcard area, necessitating split journey tickets if using the Network Railcard for a discount.

However discounts are available with other railcards. (16-25, Family & Friends, Senior etc.)

On Sundays take the train closest to 10.00 hours.

On weekdays the train closest to 11.30 is the only option.

The Barge Inn, Honeystreet, SN9 5PS T:01672 851 705. This pub is currently shut and for sale.

More than a handful of tea options in Pewsey. For details see the walk directions.