Throughout the winter and spring months, David, the team and I are often out checking trails. This work is vital for keeping our walking routes updated and instructions accurate and easy to follow. On a recent sunny weekend David and I were in Wiltshire checking our ‘ Great Ridge’ trail. This walk is one of our introductory walks for when you arrive at your first country inn. It’s ideal for getting to know the area and also for having a go at following our style of directions and map on a shorter distance.
We set off with a spring in our step from the doors of the inn, beneath bright blue skies and pleasantly warm early spring sunshine. Walking through the village we admired the church, passed the village stores (which are very useful for stocking up on some goodies and drinks before you walk) and gazed at the beautiful cottages.
Soon we were heading out of the village and into magnificent countryside. We walked on pathways between crops and saw the vivid yellow colour of oilseed rape growing in the distant fields. Out here we could feel a sense of space and freedom. We used Foot Trail’s robust, waterproof, step-by-step written instructions on our Trail Card to find our way. Half way into our trail we met some local walkers out with their dog and said hello. You’ll find that you might meet the odd dog walker or hikers when you walk, but there will definitely not be crowds, even in the summer months. This is because we use our local knowledge to take you off the beaten path and not on A to B national trails.
After a while our trail descended into a pretty valley and in the field we saw a large hare running along. Overhead the call of a kite.
4.5 miles and two hours later we arrived back to the village and walked up its main street, which was lined with attractive cottages. Time for a well earned drink.
Alison Howell
If you’d like to explore the beautiful landscapes of South West England this summer, it’s not too late to book. Simply visit our All Trips page or send us an email. We always love to hear from you.
