Aldbourne - Liddington Castle - Upper Upham - Aldbourne
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The walk starts by the pond in the attractive village of Aldbourne, which also boasts a village green and a delightful church. For much of the way it follows the Aldbourne Circular Route although in reverse, so the waymarks are in the opposite direction. The route is very easy to find and is clearly signposted.
From behind the church, a gradually climbing bridleway is taken, following the ridge of Sugar Hill and passing the prominent Four Barrows. It then equally gradually descends to the valley bottom, crossing the road to Aldbourne and joining the bridleway section of the Ridgeway.
Part way along this stretch of the Ridgeway, a diversion is taken to visit the Iron Age Liddington Castle which, in clear conditions, affords splendid views in all directions (although the view NW over Swindon is not the most beautiful).
Returning to the Ridgeway, the route becomes a byway and passes through the hamlet of Upper Upham. This is situated between the sites of two medieval villages (no longer extant), Upham and Snap. There is also a very attractive large house, Upham Court. As far as I know this is not open to the public, but it is clearly visible from the road.
From Upham, the route descends the hill ridge, passing more barrows on the way until it again meets the road to Aldbourne. On re-entering Aldbourne, a local footpath takes you through the churchyard on the way back to the starting point.
Once back in the village, you can choose between two highly-rated pubs and a delightful café to re-charge your batteries! See Additional Info.
England - South England - Wiltshire - Marlborough
Features
Church, Great Views, Hills or Fells, Pub, Toilets, Wildlife