We are the Hike Oxfordshire Ramblers. We open the way for everyone in our local community to enjoy the pleasures of walking.
A scenic walk in the north-eastern part of the North Wessex Downs National Landscape in Berkshire, incorporating a section of the Ridgeway trail. Beginning from Thurle Down car park near Streatley, we head west along the Ridgeway where extensive views are on offer over the rolling downs and north into Oxfordshire. We'll turn south into Compton, likely where we'll break for lunch, before passing through more rolling countryside through Aldworth, which will include a stop at one of the pubs for a drink. We'll then return to the car park.
Start point is at Thurle Down car park. Latitude/longitude 51.527N, 1.184W. What3Words ///available.slip.passages. It is at the end of Rectory Road, which is off the A417 at Streatley - continue along the lane for 1.5 miles, past Goring and Streatley golf club, until you see a red post box and a 'private driveway' sign, at which point the car park is on the right.
Please arrive by 09:45am ready to start walking at 10:00am prompt, and bring a packed lunch and snacks with you as well as water and/or a hot drink in a flask.
As we'll be in the depths of winter and in the UK, it will probably be chilly, wet and muddy, so please wear appropriate clothing - including a waterproof coat, and suitable footwear (walking boots, not trainers). Bear in mind it may still be muddy underfoot even if it is forecast to be dry and sunny on the day. It may be worth bringing a torch with you if you have one, just in case of reduced light levels at the end and unforeseen delays - we will most likely finish around 3:30pm.
The car park is quiet and free but quite small so you might consider car sharing - but for your safety we ask that you please only do this if you travel together in a group, or with a driver you know personally. No direct public transport is available for this one unfortunately, with the nearest train stations are Goring and Streatley (2 miles east) and Cholsey (3 miles to the north), both on the Reading-Didcot-Oxford line, from where it should be possible to book a taxi (best in advance) to/from the start point.
No dogs please on this walk - except registered assistance/guide dogs.
Non-Ramblers members are welcome and are able to attend 3 walks before joining the organization.
At the end of Rectory Road is a red postbox and 'private driveway' sign - turn right to enter the car park at this point.
