.jpg "The Plough at Lower Cadsden © Jos Joslin")
A summary map of The Ridgeway can be downloaded below.
Britain's Oldest Road
87 miles (139km) long, much of it following the ancient chalk ridge route used by prehistoric man, The Ridgeway offers the chance to get away from the bustle of life in this busy part of England. Perfect, but not too strenuous, for long distance use, this Trail is also ideal for day trips or less.
Perfect, but not too strenuous, for long distance use, this Trail is also ideal for day trips or less.
Walkers can enjoy the whole of The Ridgeway and cyclists and horse riders considerable lengths – all of the 43 miles (69km) of the western half from Overton Hill to the River Thames at Streatley and some stretches east of the river in the Chilterns. For information about riding or cycling on The Ridgeway visit our information for cyclists and horse riders page.
Please note that recreational vehicles such as motorcycles and 4 by 4s can legally use about 16 miles (26km) of the western half of The Ridgeway, mainly from May to the end of September each year (one 2 mile stretch can be used all year round). This is mostly near the start of the Trail in Wiltshire (for details see our information for users of recreational vehicles page). Please note too that some farmers legally use other sections of The Ridgeway to access their land with agricultural vehicles.
