Just a 10-minute drive from the M4 and Swindon, the Aldbourne circular route tours the North Wessex downs (Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty) and The Ridgeway on rolling hills in untouched countryside. Being so quiet but easily accessible, it makes a great place to zone out from day-to-day life. Doctor Who scenes have been shot in this village. The route begins in the village of Aldbourne which has spaces to park your car and two pubs for post run refreshments!
The trail immediately makes a 6% climb for 800m onto the downs; it then follows the trail which is now relatively flat past four Iron Age mounds each around 4000 years old. This is arguably where the best views are on the route as you can see both a panoramic view of the rolling hills and nearly the whole route. The trail passes Liddington Castle which is an anicient hill fort the highest point on the Ridgeway. Now halfway, the trail takes a gradual descent and leaves the Ridgeway passing the village of Snap, a village that was abandoned in the early 20th century. Passing a tower that was once a wind pump, the route climbs to Upper Upham which is a picturesque medieval hamlet hidden away. The trail now descends back into Aldbourne for the fastest section of the route which makes a great leg stretcher!
There are several websites devoted to the route but I feel this is the most informative: aldbourne_circular_route_11_12_0.pdf (nationaltrail.co.uk)
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Just broke the mixed team record (subject to confirmation). Going to try the individual male/female tomorrow, if legs are working again. Could be hard.....
Both runs successful. Managed to take 3 minutes of male unsupported, and 22 minutes of female one. Will submit all three for ratification.....