Running for nearly 90 miles across southern Engl&, the Ridgeway National Trail is one of our most ancient cross-county routes. Following the crest of a sequence of well-defined chalk escarpments
- the Marlborough Downs, the Berkshire or White Horse Downs & the Chilterns
- the Ridgeway leads from Overton Hill near the Neolithic stone circle at Avebury to imposing Ivinghoe Beacon close to Dunstable, at its half-way point crossing the River Thames at Streatley. Used for centuries as a trade route, a pathway for the armies of Saxon & Dane, a cattle drove & a local cart track, the Ridgeway is today an official National Trail, designated in 1973 by the Countryside Commission. West of the Thames the route is a continuous green road, while the eastern, typically-wooded Chiltern section is mostly footpaths. In its entirety the Ridgeway is a notable backpacking expedition. This book follows the route as it traverses the ever-changing downl&, shares the frequent spectacular views to capture the atmosphere of this special cross section of Engl&. It should fascinate & enthuse all those who use the Ridgeway be they Sunday afternoon strollers, cross-country cyclists, equestrians or hardy backpackers.