Bedwyn Footpaths Group
1. Holloway, Roman Road, Wilton Brail
Distance: approx 6km (3.75 miles
Map: OS Explorer 157
Walking conditions: Moderate. No stiles. If cross-field paths are under plough use field edge.
This circular walk rises from the towpath, through a restored ancient sunken path, to fields with beautiful views. After a short stretch along a Roman Road, it descends back to Bedwyn through woodland and fields.
Directions
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From Great Bedwyn wharf (Grid Ref SU 280 644) and facing the canal, turn left along the towpath. Head south-west along the towpath for about 1.6 km (1 mile) to the fourth bridge over the canal. This is known as the Bridge to Nowhere (see the information panel on bridge).
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Head left across the field to the first field boundary and turn right. Continue along the field edge with the fence on your left-hand side.
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Follow the footpath sign down to the sunken wooded path - a holloway. After about 320m (350 yds), the holloway emerges into a field. Turn right along the field edge and go through a gap into the next field.
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Walk around the left-hand edge of this field to a point directly across from where you entered it. At the gap go into the next field. Cross the field (in the direction of the footpath sign) to a track (an old Roman road) and turn left.
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After 400m (4 mile), take the footpath to the left, between bushes, and cross the field again. Continue straight on between bushes, then along a grassy path, to the woods of Wilton Brail.
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Enter the Brail and continue along the track. After about 800m (1⁄2 mile), at the bottom of the slope, leave the track to cross a small clearing and go through a metal kissing gate on the left. Turn immediately right and continue along the edge of two fields.
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Go through the pedestrian gate and cross the road. Cross the field on a diagonal left, and in the direction of the footpath sign. Enter the meadow and turn right, walk through the meadow. Leave the meadow at the lock and turn right along the towpath back to the wharf.
Make sure that you are suitably equipped for walking and note that these maps are intended as a guide only. Please respect the countryside, wildlife and livestock, and ensure that dogs are kept under close control and don't leave the path. Be aware that ticks are prevalent in the area.