Berkeley - Newport - Woodford - Berkeley

Sean Meek

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Berkeley is a small town, located at the head of the Vale of Berkeley. It is dominated by its castle, which is one of the March castles, built to keep out the Welsh. It is also a fairytale Castle with its warm pink stone that glows in soft sunset light. Many historic events have been seen here over the years, including the gruesome murder of King Edward II. Today, the castle, gardens and butterfly house are a major visitor attraction.

The walk is mostly flat, passing through the town and surrounding countryside. One of the first attractions that will be seen is an elegant 18th Century house, the former home of Dr Edward Jenner, who discovered the vaccination for smallpox. The house is now a museum, where you can learn more about the doctor and his work. The town's unusual church is also visited. Dating back to the 13th Century, it played an important part in the defence of the castle; holes made by musket balls and axes can be seen on the north door. The bell tower was built later and is separated from the main body of the church.

The walk explores the countryside surrounding the town, visiting the villages of Newport and Woodford. The castle slowly becomes the dominant feature of the view ahead, as the River Cam is followed back into Berkeley towards the end of the walk.

England - South West England - Gloucestershire - Severn Valley