An 11 mile circular walk starting from Upper Swainswick where we descend to cross the Lamb Brook valley and onto Woolley, a Thankful Village. A walk past ‘Somewhere’ with far reaching views to the East over to Little Solsbury Hill and Charmy Down takes us to Charlcombe and the Church of St. Mary’s, a 12th Century church where there is believed to be a holy well in the grounds.
Descending into Bath past Camden Crescent with its notable Elephant Head symbols of Charles Pratt, 1st Earl Camden. A visit to the start/end of the Cotswold Way in front of Bath Abbey then on to the Kennet and Avon Canal and Deep Lock, the second deepest lock in England.
As the walk progresses the view of Little Solsbury Hill emerges and the high spot of the walk, literally. The tranquil walk along the canal and then the River Avon brings us into Batheaston where we ascend to the site of an Iron Age hill fort on top of Little Solsbury Hill, made famous by Peter Gabriel.
The hill gives exceptional views of the city of Bath and the surrounding area as far as the Mendip Hills and Salisbury Plain.
After all those breathtaking views we return downhill back to the start with views out to Lansdown and Beckford’s Tower.
From countryside to a bustling city centre and back to hilltop views this walk does provides something for everyone.
Practicalities – the walk 11 miles/ 18km and will take about 5.5 hours. The walk does involve some steep climbs which may be slippery if the ground is wet. There are some stiles. Meet at the lay-by, on the slip road for Upper Swainswick from the A46 [Not the one actually on the A46] just after the start of the dual carriageway going South. Grid reference ST 762683. What3Words: pill.stay.goat. This is the one of the only walks in the walking festival that is tricky (but not impossible!) to get to by public transport.
The walk leader is Barry Cox, from Cotswold Voluntary Wardens, supported by Bathscape. Please note, no dogs except assistance dogs on this walk.
Booking is essential, you can book your free place here – Book Swainswick.
