Watlington Hill, The Ridgeway & Cowleaze Wood – Long & Medium Country Hike

Walk length 21miles/34 km approx. Circular. A really picturesque circular walk from Saunderton Station up to Watlington Hill across a variety of landscapes from scenic views to wooded tracks, with a number of hill climbs. Some of this walk is on the Ridgeway National Trail, a path that follows tracks going back to prehistoric times and was used by travelers and herdsman. Lunch and Finish: Please bring a snack lunch and water for the hike (rustic, no facilities). The hike should finish before 5.00pm, however the time may be slightly earlier or later than this depending on the weather and pace. There is a nice pub very close to the station at the end which we can use for drinks or food or if you need to wait for the train. THIS HIKE IS A HARD LONG HIKE WITH A NUMBER OF SUBSTANTIAL HILLS, PLEASE DO NOT SIGN UP IF YOU WANT AN EASY SHORT HIKE. If the weather is not suitable for a long hike close to the day I may change the hike for a shorter version. Meeting Train from London. The 7.53am from London Marylebone gets to Saunderton for 8.52am for the walk to start at 9am. You are advised to meet from 7.30am to give you time to get tickets or groupsaves. (early start because of the distance of the walk). If coming from London I suggest meeting close to the WHSmiths at London Marylebone for any group saves (see photo below) The organizer is not coming by train for this hike but will meet you at Saunderton.