North Wessex Downs Walking Festival – Exploring the Watership Down Trail

This walk takes in part of the new 24-mile Watership Down Trail, exploring some of the sites immortalised in Richard Adams’ much-loved novel, Watership Down. The walk leaders have an inside perspective, both coming from nearby Whitchurch, where the author lived.

Our 6-mile route commences at Nuthanger Down, continues along Ashley Warren Down and Caesars Belt, then cuts across to Owl Lodge before heading back to Nuthanger Down. Along the walk, we will watch and listen out for wildlife, including skylarks and orchids.

There is an optional detour, which will add a mile to the walk, but enables those who take it to enjoy exceptional views to the north of the Downs from the Iron Age hillfort on Ladle Hill.

We will walk at a medium pace. Please note that this is undulating countryside, and there will be two short steep ascents, but we will be sure to take breaks on the climb. We recommend wearing long trousers as we will be crossing grazing land and there is a risk of ticks. Don’t forget your water, and a snack if needed. There will be a 10-minute break for refreshments at the halfway point. After the walk, you may wish to picnic in a meadow near the meeting point.

For details of the full 24-mile trail, see Watership Down Trail instructions. Nuthanger Down is Waypoint 16.

Walk Leader/organisation: Charmaine Hoey, Whitchurch Wednesday Walks

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