Wansdyke and Tan Hill (10th September 2006)

We went out to see about doing the eastern part of the Wansdyke Path, i.e. the section leading into Marlborough.

Set off from the car park near the crest line, part way between Alton Barnes and Lockeridge. Climbed up the hill to the dyke and got the first disappointment of the day. The supposed bridleway heading east towards the private section in Shaw Houses grounds is pretty much totally overgrown, it's not passable for humans, nevermind horses. Luckily there is a nearby path that parallels it to the remains of the medieval village of Shaw.

The village is spooky, Ok not really that much to see, but it was quiet and eerie.

Again tried to get back to the Wansdyke path, but again it's not feasible. I get the strong impression that the land owner doesn't want people walking anywhere on their land :-(

Gave up trying to go through the forest on the non-existent bridleway, resorted to walking down the bottom of the dyke, luck it's been dry !!

Turned right on a connection route and then joined up to the Tan Hill path. Climbed up to the top of the hill and was rewarded with a glorious view over the Vale of Pewsey, really excellent looking over towards Salisbury Plain

Headed back to the car, final view from on top of the hill just super, sun, light wind to keep us cool, what more can you ask for !!