The John Wood Countryside Trail: Swainswick and the legends of Bath
This walk in the beautiful Lam Valley delves into Bath’s legendary and architectural past. Starting in Larkhall, it heads to the tiny 18th century church at Woolley, designed by John Wood the Younger. From there it crosses the valley to St Mary’s Church in Swainswick where John Wood and his family are buried. Finally, you climb Little Solsbury Hill where King Bladud launched his maiden (and final) flight.
John Wood and his son (John Wood ‘the Younger’) were the architects of Georgian Bath, between them creating the Royal Crescent, King’s Circus, Queen Square, Prior Park, North and South Parades and much else besides. But what inspired them and why are they buried in the tiny church of St Mary’s in Upper Swainswick?
Download the walking trail and find out more as you explore this picturesque part of the Bath countryside and beautiful village churches.
Start/Finish: The Bladud’s Head, 1 Catsley Place, Bath BA1 6TA
Distance: approx. 5 miles
Parking: Larkhall – car park by New Oriel Hall
Refreshments: Tea and Coffee at Swainswick Church
Toilet: Swainswick Church
Terrain: lanes and footpaths. Some steep sections which may be muddy. The walk takes you up and over little Solsbury Hill
This walk was created by Swainswick Church.
