The following walks are detailed below: –
- Walks in Wiltshire: Downton & Charlton All Saints (6 miles)
- Downton Circular (3.8 miles)
Walks in Wiltshire: Downton & Charlton All Saints
In this episode of Dave Ford’s series of “Walks in Wiltshire”, Dave takes a 6 mile circular walk between the villages of Downton & Charlton All Saints accompanied by his Whippet, Logan.
After parking his car at a free car park on the Eastern side of Downton right next to The Downton Moot, Dave’s walk started with a wander around The Moot – what was once landscaped gardens belonging to Moot House created in the grounds of a previous Motte & Bailey Norman Castle.
He then headed North out of the village following a footpath that ran parallel with a disused railway line. On reaching Four Gates, he headed West past Standlynch Farm and in to Trafalgar Park.
The public footpath took him close to Trafalgar House and on to the pretty Church (now closed to the public) that was once the private chapel of the house.
His route took him past Standlynch Mill and over the River Avon on to the village of Charlton All Saints. After visiting the Church of All Saints, he joined the Avon Valley Path for his homeward leg South back to Downton.
At Downton, he got to explore the amazing Church of St Laurence before reaching his final destination – The Wooden Spoon Pub. The Wooden Spoon Pub (tripadvisor)
Information sources: Wikipedia, British History Online, Vision of Britain, Downton Village Website, British Listed Buildings & Historic England .
Map courtesy of Google Maps. Aerial pictures courtesy of Google Maps.
Downton Circular
This is a beautiful circular route exploring the area around Downton, taking you along the banks of the River Avon and circling around the fish farms.
The trail starts from Downton Moot and follows the road through and out of town, continuing through Barford Park and offering stunning countryside views of gently rolling hills.
You’ll head towards Trafalgar Park, at the centre of which is Trafalgar House, a Georgian Country House dating back to the 18th century and a Grade I listed budding.
You’ll pass the ruins of a chapel before reaching Standlynch Mill on the River Avon, a Grade II listed building. From here, continue along the riverside, crossing several side branches and taking in the sights and sounds of the rushing waters in these parts. Cross the river via a wooden footbridge and head towards Charlton-All-Saints.
Begin the journey back from here, heading across the fields and meandering along the riverside for part of it before arriving back in Downton, where there are several places to get refreshments afterwards.
Take extra care on the road walking sections of this route. This route may be muddy after rain, and parts may be overgrown at times, so waterproof shoes and long trousers are recommended. The trail is relatively flat and suitable for a wide range of ages and fitness levels. You may encounter livestock, so leads are advised if you bring your dog. There is a stile to cross, which does have a dog gate but might be tricky for a larger dog.
Follow this link for full details Downton Circular: full details