Wiltshire walking route and map NoW10

Click on thumbnail to view full size picture of Great Chalfield

HOLT TO BROUGHTON GIFFORD

Waypoint	Map Reference	Bearing to next waypoint
START	ST 8610 6192	201
WP1	ST 8600 6161	221
WP2	ST 8559 6101	175
WP3	ST 8558 6085	75
WP4	ST 8611 6101	81
WP5	ST 8796 6145	61
WP6	ST 8820 6161	2
WP7	ST 8821 6208	346
WP8	ST 8803 6254	352
WP9	ST 8795 6290	318
WP10	ST 8784 6309	288
WP11	ST 8611 6349	174
WP12	st 8615 6317	193
WP13	ST 8605 6255	198
WP14	ST 8595 6214	150
START	ST 8610 6192	-

General:- This is a very pleasant easy to follow 6.2 mile walk on level ground, ideal for those new to outdoor walking. Much of it follows the River Avon and there are a number of interesting items along the route to tempt the curious traveller so allow extra time.

"The Courts" in Holt is owned by the National Trust. Nowadays it is know for its gardens but the house got its name from the court that sat there to settle disputes amongst weavers in the locality.

The Pack Horse Bridge at Wp7 looks of normal proportions until you walk up to it and realise it is far too narrow for even a horse cart. It was designed for pack horses and must have been a major thoroughfare in its day, probably for carrying wool to local markets. Its in very good condition, even the roadway looks original, its a gem, you won't find a better one in Wiltshire.

Great Chalfield is also owned by the National Trust. It's a fine medieval manor house with outbuildings, moat, and chapel that combine to give a very clear insight into medieval life. Inside it just oozes history, nothing has changed for hundreds of years. Its the sort of place you expect to be used in a film set, such a pity that the opening times are so restricted, if you want to visit check first.

There are other items too. The little church at Whaddon, the iron bridge soon after, you may find others.

(GPS length 5.63 miles).

How to get there: Take the B3107 Melksham to Bradford on Avon road. When you reach Holt turn off into "The Midlands" road @ ST 8613 6185 where it is signed "carpark". Park in village carpark 25yds on R.