Posts tagged England
Trig Pillar Extremes

If you’ve searched for or stumbled across this page then you probably already know what an OS Trig Pillar is. If you don’t then this article from the Ordnance Survey is a good place to start.

Over 6,000 Trig Pillars were erected across the country from 1936 to 1962. The first person to have visited all of them was Rob Woodall who completed his 14-year personal quest in April 2016. At the time of writing this I’ve also been visiting Trig Pillars for over 14 years but so far I’ve bagged less than 5%. While I don’t have the need to bag them all, I’d be happy with an “interesting 10%”. These would include all of the pillars on the UK County Tops and, as it’s close to home, all of South-East England. After a geeky pub conversation somewhere in Scotland after a County Top climb, I also took an interest in the extremes: the oldest, the newest, the furthest north, east, south and west. This post shows the results of my research so far into what are those extreme Trig Pillars.

Let me know if you have any corrections to the information on this page or any suggestions for other extreme Trig Pillars. I’ll donate £1 to one of the outdoor causes that i support for any edit made.

Trig Pillar Compass Club

The spreadsheet below shows the same Trig Pillars as in the map above. Note that those highlighted in yellow are ones that I’m less confident in. Comment below if you can confirm or correct any of these.

Other Extremes

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Richard gowerTrek, UK County Tops, Mountain, Trig Pillar, England, Scotland, Wales, Northern IrelandComment
Cycling The Horton Brook and Datchet Common Brook

Black Park Lake on the Horton Brook

It had been a few years since I thought that I had completed all of the Chiltern and Colne Valley rivers. Then I discovered the Horton Brook and The Datchet Common Brook on a map and needed to explore them too. Both are small and easily missed unless you’re looking out for them. They snake through fields and residential areas to the east of Slough but you can walk or cycle fairly close to them if you know where to look. Both of the brook’s sources are close to each other at Fulmer and and have confluences with the Thames near Wraysbury. This means that both can be discovered in a 40 km cycle ride, following the Horton brook from the source then the Datchet Common Brook from its confluence back to the source.

 

Cycling the Horton Brook from the source to the confluence with the Thames

River start: Boundary of Black Park and Pinewood Studios, Fulmer
River end: Confluence with the River Thames in National Trust, Ankerwyke
River length: 19.7 km (12.2 miles)
Links: DEFRA: Horton Brook

We started our cycle trip at the north-eastern corner of Black Park at the junction of Fulmer Common Road, Alderbourne Lane and Pinewood Road. Different maps show the source of the Brook either right on this corner or a little further south along the boundary of Black Park and Pinewood Studios. I’ve been cycling and walking there for years but always thought that it was a ditch.

After ~700m from Fulmer Common Road, the Brook cuts diagonally across the Country Park to empty into Black Park Lake, emerging on the south-western side near the path to the car park. After Black Park the Brook crosses under Rowley Lane and into Rowley Farm. We cycled through the farm on the Rowley Farm Trail but ended up taking a fairly convoluted route to not stay very close to the Brook. The easiest route is to follow the A420 to George Green, although be very careful here is it’s a busy dual carriageway.

After the A420 the Brook snakes through George Green, Middle Green, across Langley Park Road and under the Grand Union Canal Slough Arm. Cycling close to the Brook is pretty straightforward and there’s a nice straight section of the canal to follow. After leaving the canal at Mansion Lane you’ll cross uner the railway and take a left onto Parlaunt Road then right onto Old Slade Lane. Meanwhile, the Brook passes through a field and Ritchlings Park Golf Club. After crossing over the M4, leave the Colne Valley Trail at a footpath junction and follow a messy path initially parallel to the motorway then cutting through a field to cross over the A4 Colnbrook Bypass. Here you’ll briefly re-join the Colne Valley Trail through Colnbrook village. After Colnbrook follow Horton Road keeping the Brook and The Queen Mother Reservoir on your right. Cross over Datchet Road to follow Park Lane and onto the footpath through the lakes to Station Road.

At Station Road you can take a left heading east to the bridge where the Brook flows under and into Wraysbury Lake. According to the DEFRA site, this is where the Horton Brook ends. The Wraysbury Lakes Ditch takes water from the lake and into the Colne Brook, which itself flows into the Thames at Runnymede.

For a more interesting cycle ride we took a right onto Station Road, passing through Wraysbury High Street then took at right into Magna Carta Lane. Here you can pass through the National Trust Ankerwyke site to connect to an arm of the Horton Brook that joins the Thames to the east of Ankerycke Yew. The paths through the National Trust site are for walking so best to lock your bikes up at the parking area.

 

Cycling The Datchet Common Brook from the Thames to the source

River start: Fulmer Wood Lake, Slough, SL3 6AA
River end: Confluence with the River Thames near The Avenue, Sunnymeads, Wraysbury, Staines, TW19 5EY
River length: 11.3 km (7 miles)
Links: DEFRA: Datchet Common Brook

From the end of the Horton Brook return to the B376 Staines Road and take a left towards Wraysbury. At the mini roundabout continue on the B376, then take a left onto The Avenue at Sunnymeads. Look out for the bridge over the Datchet Common Brook near house #37. This is the closest you’ll get to the confluence with the Thames which is behind the houses on the western side of the road.

After the bridge, turn around and take the next left onto Acacia Avenue to Sunnymeads Station. Take the footpath on the right to climb the steps back up to Welley Road. Take a left and follow Welley Road to the junction with Datchet Road. Take a left onto Datchet Road and follow it in an easterly direction towards Datchet Common. The Brook follows the Datchet Road on the northern side, following the edge of the Queen Mother Reservoir.

Take a right onto Penn Road, a left onto New Road then a right onto Ditton Road. Take a right at the junction with Major’s Farm Road, running parallel with the M4 until you reach the footbridge. Cross the bridge over the motorway to the northern side and look out for the entrance to Ditton Park on the corner of Ridig Court Road and Ditton Park Road.

You’re now in the most enjoyable part of the ride, following the course of the Brook through Ditton Park to Upton Court Road. At the north-eastern corner of Upton Park, take Quaves Road onto Lascelles Road then take a left on the A4 Wellington Street, crossing over to the northern side where safe to do so. At the large Sainsbury’s Roundabout take the A412 heading north. After crossing over the railway line and canal you can follow the quieter residential roads that run parallel to the A412.

Take a left onto Church Lane then a right onto Wexham Park Lane. Look out for the bridge over the Brook at Valley End at the bottom of the hill. Shortly after Valley End, at a curve in the road, take the footpath on the left called Gallions Lane and follow it in a northerly direction. The Brook will now be on your left running through Wexham Park Golf Course. Just before the end of Gallions Lane take a right to follow the path running parallel to Rowley Lane to the end at Black Park Lane. Follow Black Park Lane in a northerly direction to the end at Fulmer Common Road. When you meet the Shakespeare’s Way and Beeches Way that join from the left you’re now as close as you’ll get to the source of the Datchet Common Brook at Fulmer Wood Lake.

Take a right onto Fulmer Common Road to return to the start of the cycle ride at the north-eastern corner of Black Park

Red = Cycle Route, Green = Datchet Common Brook, Blue = Horton Brook

Elevation for cycle route

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Richard gowerCycle, NCN, Canal, Thames, Chilterns, Colne Valley, National Trust, Buckinghamshire, Berkshire, EnglandComment
Chiltern Walks: Sandridge and Heartwood Forest

Edge of Heartwood Forest, towards Childwickbury

Start & Finish: Nomansland Parking, Ferrers Lane, St Albans, AL4 8EG
Distance: 12.3 km (7.7 miles)
Elevation change: +/- 106m
Hertfordshire Way section covered: Chilwickbury to Hammonds House Farm: 5.5 km
GPX File: get via Buy Me a Coffee
Other routes touched (walk): Hertfordshire Way, The Romans and Nomandsland, Ver Valley Walk
Other routes touched (cycle): NCN 6
Pubs / Cafes on route: Several pubs and a cafe in Sandridge at 8 km in.
Map: St Albans & Hatfield Map | Hemel Hempstead & Welwyn Garden City | Ordnance Survey | OS Explorer Map 182
Links: Childwickbury, Sandridge, Heartwood Forest, Nomansland Common

The Hertfordshire Way offers an incredible opportunity to circumnavigate one of England's home counties, revealing its hidden charms and surprising variety. This circular long-distance footpath, stretching around 273 km (170 miles), guides walkers through the county's most picturesque landscapes, proving that green spaces are never far, even in this area close to London. We walked the Chilterns part of the Hertfordshire Way in 15 sections over a couple of years. We used my “Greater Chilterns” definition that takes the trail from the River Lea near Wheathampstead to the River Colne near Garston. This route is one of those 15 circular walks.

The guidance below will help you navigate but don’t use it as a fully accurate turn-by-turn guide. Always take a map and/or a GPX route and prepare well for the weather and terrain.

For this walk we parked at the free parking area on Nomansland Common off Ferrers Lane. Take the footpath heading west from the parking area and, after approximately 800m, take the southern footpath through the woods towards Round Wood. Keep heading in a south-westerly direction along the field edge until you reach the railway embankment. Take a right to follow the right hand edge of the railway until you reach Ayres End Lane. Take a left to pass under the railway line, then the first path on the right to follow a path that bypasses Ayres End Lane and joins the Ver Valley Walk.

Follow the Ver Valley Walk in a south-westerly direction. Carefully cross over the A1081 Harpenden Road and take a right into Childwickbury. Here you’ll join the Herfordshire Way. Take a left in Childwickbury village to follow the Hertfordshireway back to the A1081 Harpenden Road. Turn right onto the A1081 then carefully cross over to follow the Hertfordshire Way in an easterly direction to Sandridge.

Sandridge village is a good place to stop for a rest at 8 km in. There’s a few pubs and a cafe so it’s well-served for a small village. After Sandridge continue to follow the Hertfordshire Way in a north-easterly direction until you reach the junction with the Romans and Nomansland trail at Hammonds House farm. Leave the Hertfordshire Way here and follow the Romans and Nomansland trail in a north-westerly direction through the farm. Eventually you’ll cross the Wheathampstead Road back onto Nomansland Common and the final short section back to the car park.

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Richard gowerTrek, Chilterns, Hertfordshire, EnglandComment
Chiltern Walks: St Albans and Childwickbury

St Albans Cathedral

Start & Finish: Verulamium Car Park, 39 St Michael's Street, St Albans, AL3 4SW. Alternative parking and public transport options in St Albans
Distance: 14.3 km (8.9 miles)
Elevation change: +/- 122m
Hertfordshire Way section covered: Redbournbury to Childwickbury: 10.6 km
GPX File: get via Buy Me a Coffee
Other routes touched (walk): Hertfordshire Way, Ver Valley Walk, River Ver Trail
Other routes touched (cycle): NCN 6
Pubs / Cafes on route: Many in St Albans Town Centre
Map: St Albans & Hatfield Map | Hemel Hempstead & Welwyn Garden City | Ordnance Survey | OS Explorer Map 182
Links: Redbournbury, St Albans, Childwickbury, River Ver, Gorhambury Estate

The Hertfordshire Way offers an incredible opportunity to circumnavigate one of England's home counties, revealing its hidden charms and surprising variety. This circular long-distance footpath, stretching around 273 km (170 miles), guides walkers through the county's most picturesque landscapes, proving that green spaces are never far, even in this area close to London. We walked the Chilterns part of the Hertfordshire Way in 15 sections over a couple of years. We used my “Greater Chilterns” definition that takes the trail from the River Lea near Wheathampstead to the River Colne near Garston. This route is one of those 15 circular walks.

The guidance below will help you navigate but don’t use it as a fully accurate turn-by-turn guide. Always take a map and/or a GPX route and prepare well for the weather and terrain. For this walk we parked at the Verulamium Car Park on the western edge of the town. The location is great for the walk but it’s also expensive. There’s other parking and public transport options in St Albans though.

Most of this walk is in the countryside to the north of the city, however there’s a “bonus” loop of 2.5 km that takes in St. Alban’s Cathedral, Fishpool Street and Verulamium Park. It’s worth doing but if you want to skip it the main section of the walk is around 11.5 km. My advice is to do the main section first then have a rest in one of the city’s pubs and cafes then do the small loop before returning to the car park.

For the main section of the route, exit the car park on the western side onto St Michael’s Street then take a right onto the A4147 Hemel Hempstead Road. It’s a busy route into the city but the pavement is safe enough and it’s a short distance. After the roundabout carefully cross over and take the first lane on the left heading into farmland in a north-westerly direction. Follow this path through fields, woods and a golf course to the small village of Childwickbury.

Continue through Childwickbury until you reach the A1081 Harpenden Road. Take a left onto the A1081 and follow the pavement for 1.2 km then take a left onto Beesonend Lane. Follow the lane for 2 km in a south-westerly direction until you reach a T-junction with a path that runs parallel to the river Ver. Take a left to follow this path in a southerly direction to the A5183 Redbourn Road.

Cross over the road and enter a gate into the Gorhambury Estate. Follow the path through the estate until you reach the A4147 Hemel Hempstead Road. Cross over the road to return to St Michael’s Street and the car park. Note that Gorhambury is a private estate with permissive paths running through it. The gate from the A5183 was locked when we were there so we had to take a less interesting diversion along the A5183. Check their website linked about for details of any closures.

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Richard gowerTrek, Chilterns, Hertfordshire, EnglandComment
Shardeloes 10k Trail

When: September 27th 2025
Where: Amersham Cricket Club, Amersham, HP7 0RN
Organiser: Chiltern Harriers AC
Distance: 10 km
Elevation: +/- 133m
Course: 1 small loop of the cricket club field then a large clockwise loop via Mop End, Beamond End and Little Missenden
Other routes touched (Walk): South Bucks Way, Chiltern Heritage Trail
Other routes touches (Cycle): Chiltern Heritage Trail Hampden Route
Finish time: 1 hour, 36 seconds

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Richard gowerRun, 10k, Buckinghamshire, EnglandComment
Chiltern Walks: Redbourn and Redbournbury

Farmland south of Redbourn

Start & Finish: Free car park on West Common, Redbourn, St Albans AL3 7ND
Distance: 9 km (6 miles)
Elevation change: +/- 74m
Hertfordshire Way section covered: Redbourn to Redbournbury: 4 km
GPX File: get via Buy Me a Coffee
Other routes touched (walk): Hertfordshire Way, Chiltern Way, Ver Valley Walk, River Ver Trail
Other routes touched (cycle): Nickey Line
Pubs / Cafes on route: The Cricketers of Redbourn at start and end
Map: St Albans & Hatfield Map | Hemel Hempstead & Welwyn Garden City | Ordnance Survey | OS Explorer Map 182
Links: Redbourn, Redbournbury, Redbournbury Mill, River Ver, Nickey Line

The Hertfordshire Way offers an incredible opportunity to circumnavigate one of England's home counties, revealing its hidden charms and surprising variety. This circular long-distance footpath, stretching around 273 km (170 miles), guides walkers through the county's most picturesque landscapes, proving that green spaces are never far, even in this area close to London. We walked the Chilterns part of the Hertfordshire Way in 15 sections over a couple of years. We used my “Greater Chilterns” definition that takes the trail from the River Lea near Wheathampstead to the River Colne near Garston. This route is one of those 15 circular walks.

The guidance below will help you navigate but don’t use it as a fully accurate turn-by-turn guide. Always take a map and/or a GPX route and prepare well for the weather and terrain.

For this walk we parked at the free car park on West Common near the cricket club. Walk along the tree-lined avenue in a south-westerly direction then take a right onto Flamsteadbury Lane. Take a left onto Ben Austins (road) and then a right onto the footpath next to house number 13. When you reach the field corner take a left to follow the Hertfordshire Way in a south-westerly direction along the field-edge. Keep following both the Very Valley Walk and Hertfordshire Way to pass through the grounds of St Mary’s Church, across Hemel Hempstead Road and onto the Nickey Lane disused railway.

Take a left onto the Nickey Line and follow it for 1.8 km until you reach a path junction just after crossing over the River Red. Take right at this path junction to leave the Nickey Line to stay on the Hertfordshire Way. Follow the Hertfordshire Way in a south-easterly direction for 2.6 km as it runs parallel to the River Ver. Approximately 0.5 km south of the Redbournbury Watermill leave the Hertfordshire Way to cross over the River Ver into a cow field. There’s a section of stepping stones where you can cross an arm of the Ver after the footbridge.

Cross the cow field and over the A4183 Redbourn Road then onto Punchbowl Lane. Follow Punchbowl Lane in a south-westerly direction for 3.3 km then take the footpath on the right to follow the Ver Valley Walk across fields in a northerly direction. Keep on the Ver Valley Walk heading north for approximately 3 km back to the start at West Common.

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Richard gowerTrek, Chilterns, Hertfordshire, EnglandComment
Ales & Trails Creative Juices 10k

When: September 21st 2025
Where: Creative Juices Brewery, Woodoaks Farm Cottages, Denham Way, Maple Cross, Rickmansworth WD3 9XQ
Organiser: Racing Line Running
Distance: 10 km
Elevation: +/- 189m
Course: 3 loops either side of the M25 starting at Woodoaks Farm and reaching to Philipshill Wood
Other routes touched (Walk): Chiltern Way, Chiltern Heritage Trail
Other routes touches (Cycle): Chiltern Heritage Trail Milton Route
Finish time: 1 hour, 38 seconds

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Richard gowerRun, 10k, Hertfordshire, EnglandComment
South-West England parkruns

The parkrun Regionnaire status used to be a major part of parkrun tourism, with South-East England being the largest region. Changes in the parkrun website in 2019 removed the regions making it harder to track completion status. All is not lost though as here’s the complete parkrun guide to what’s in and what’s out of the counties of South-West England.

The South West England region is the largest of England's nine regions by area, encompassing the historic and ceremonial counties of Cornwall (including the Isles of Scilly), Devon, Dorset, Somerset, Wiltshire, Gloucestershire, and the city of Bristol. It stretches from the border with the South East and West Midlands, down to the far southwestern tip at Land's End, giving it the longest coastline of any English region. The area is often romantically referred to as the West Country and includes ancient landscapes such as Wessex. The key urban centres are the thriving city of Bristol, the historically important naval port of Plymouth, and the coastal conurbation of Bournemouth/Poole.

Map of South-West England showing the Historic and present-day (Ceremonial) counties

parkrun event numbers per county

There are currently 86 parkrun events in the South-West region. Three of these events were in Hampshire in South-East England before the county boundary changes in 1974, however this was a long time before parkrun started. There are currently no parkrun events in the present day / Ceremonial county of the Isles of Scilly

Notes and exceptions.

  • Numbers of event above exclude prison parkruns and permanently cancelled events.

  • Bournemouth and Moors Valley parkruns were part of Historic Hampshire and would have been in Historic South-East England, but are now part of Present-day Dorset, so would be in the South West England region.

  • Tidworth: South Tidworth where the parkrun takes place was moved from Hampshire into Wiltshire in 1992 but houses there still have Hampshire on their address for post.

  • The course for Tamar Lakes is in both Cornwall and Devon however the start and finish are on the Cornwall side so I’ve included it there.

The South-West Counties parkrun pages

Click on each of the images below to go to the page with details of the parkrun events for the county. Bristol is included in the Gloucestershire page.

More parkrun posts

parkruns are free, weekly, community 5k events all around the world. I started in December 2012 and have been obsessive about it ever since. See my parkrun Collection page for details.

Featured and popular parkrun posts:

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Richard gowerRun, parkrun, Cornwall, Devon, Dorset, Somerset, Wiltshire, Gloucestershire, EnglandComment
Completing all Cornwall parkruns

There are currently 9 parkrun events in present-day Cornwall of which I have completed 1. The first was Lanhydrock which started on January 18th 2014 and the newest is Penryn Campus which started on October 16th 2021. The name for having completed all parkrun events in the county is CornwALL

The course for Tamar Lakes is in both Cornwall and Devon however the start and finish are on the Cornwall side so I’ve included it here.

The interactive maps below take you to the approximate location for the course, typically the centre of the park. See the course instructions in the parkrun page for each event for specific directions to the start. Course maps show the route at the time that I ran it and may have changed since then.

Eden Project

 

Heartlands

 

Land’s End

 

Lanhydrock

 

Mount Edgcumbe

  • I completed this event on: October 21st 2025 with a finish time of: 29:46

  • Other routes touched (walk): England Coast Path

  • Other routes touched (cycle): NCN 2

  • Inaugural: January 30th 2016

  • Links: Event Home Page, Course Page

 

Penrose

 

Penryn Campus

  • I have not yet completed this event

 

Tamar Lakes

 

Trelissick

 

More parkrun posts

parkruns are free, weekly, community 5k events all around the world. I started in December 2012 and have been obsessive about it ever since. See my parkrun Collection page for details.

Featured and popular parkrun posts:

Back to Run Index
Richard gowerRun, parkrun, Cornwall, EnglandComment
Completing all Devon parkruns

There are currently 19 parkrun events in present-day Devon of which I have completed 2. The first was Killerton which started on April 30th 2011 and the newest is Greendale Farm Shop which started on January 11th 2025. I’m not aware of a collective name for having completed all Devon parkrun events, but let me know in the comments below if you know of one.

The course for Tamar Lakes is in both Cornwall and Devon however the start and finish are on the Cornwall side so I’ve included it there.

The interactive maps below take you to the approximate location for the course, typically the centre of the park. See the course instructions in the parkrun page for each event for specific directions to the start. Course maps show the route at the time that I ran it and may have changed since then.

Barnstaple

 

Bideford

 

Bolberry Down

 

Central, Plymouth

 

Cranbrook Country Park

 

Exeter Riverside

 

Exmouth

 

Greendale Farm Shop

 

Haldon Forest

 

Killerton

  • I completed this event on: June 4th 2022 with a finish time of: 25:25

  • Other routes touched (walk): Two Counties Way, National Trust walks through the estate

  • Inaugural: April 30th 2011

  • Links: Event Home Page, Course Page

 

Parke

 

Plymvalley

  • I completed this event on: October 26th 2019 with a finish time of: 28:40

  • Other routes touched (walk): West Devon Way, Plym Valley Trail

  • Other routes touched (cycle): NCN 27

  • Inaugural: September 22nd 2012

  • Links: Event Home Page, Course Page

 

Seaton

 

Sharpham Estate

 

Simmons Park

 

Tamar Trails

 

Teignmouth Promenade

 

Torbay Velopark

 

Woolacombe Dunes

 

More parkrun posts

parkruns are free, weekly, community 5k events all around the world. I started in December 2012 and have been obsessive about it ever since. See my parkrun Collection page for details.

Featured and popular parkrun posts:

Back to Run Index
Richard gowerRun, parkrun, Devon, EnglandComment
Completing all Dorset parkruns

There are currently 9 parkrun events in present-day Dorset of which I have not yet completed any. The first was Poole which started on April 2nd 2011 and the newest is Durlston Country Park which started on March 19th 2022. The name for having completed all parkrun events in the county is The Dor Set

Bournemouth and Moors Valley were in historic Hampshire but are now part of present-day Dorset.

The interactive maps below take you to the approximate location for the course, typically the centre of the park. See the course instructions in the parkrun page for each event for specific directions to the start. Course maps show the route at the time that I ran it and may have changed since then.

Blandford

 

Durlston Country Park

 

Poole

 

St Mary’s

 

The Great Field

 

Upton House

 

Weymouth

 

More parkrun posts

parkruns are free, weekly, community 5k events all around the world. I started in December 2012 and have been obsessive about it ever since. See my parkrun Collection page for details.

Featured and popular parkrun posts:

Back to Run Index
Richard gowerRun, parkrun, Dorset, EnglandComment
Completing all Somerset parkruns

There are currently 15 parkrun events in present-day Somerset of which I have completed 3. The first was Ashton Court which started on April 23rd 2011 and the newest is Brickfields park which started on May 10th 2025. The name for having completed all parkrun events in the county is The Somer-Set

Yeovil Montacute parkrun was active until the Covid-19 parkrun pause and is now permanently closed. Henstridge Airfield parkrun closed in September 2023.

The interactive maps below take you to the approximate location for the course, typically the centre of the park. See the course instructions in the parkrun page for each event for specific directions to the start. Course maps show the route at the time that I ran it and may have changed since then.

Ashton Court

 

Bath Skyline

 

Brickfields Park

  • I completed this event on: June 28th 2025 with a finish time of: 26:21

  • Other routes touched (walk): N/A

  • Other routes touched (cycle): NCN 244

  • Inaugural: May 10th 2025

  • Links: Event Home Page, Course Page

 

Burnham and Highbridge

 

Clevedon Salthouse Fields

  • I completed this event on: December 30th 2023 with a finish time of: 28:34

  • Other routes touched (walk): England Coastal path

  • Inaugural: September 21st 2019

  • Links: Event Home Page, Course Page

 

Five Arches

 

Frogmary Green Farm

 

Henstridge Airfield

***Henstridge Airfield parkrun is now permanently cancelled ***

  • I did not complete this event while it was active

  • Inaugural: September 8th 2018

  • Final Event: #167 on September 2nd 2023

  • Links: Event Home Page, Course Page

 

Longrun Meadow

 

Marine Parade

 

Minehead

 

Sharpham Road Playing Fields

 

Shepton Mallet

 

Somerdale Pavilion

 

Street

 

The Old Showfield

 

Yeovil Montacute

***Yeovil Montacute parkrun is now permanently cancelled ***

  • I completed this event on: September 15th 2018 with a finish time of: 25:41

  • Other routes touched (walk): Monarch’s Way

  • Inaugural: September 7th 2013

  • Final Event: #295 on March 14th 2020

  • Links: Event Home Page, Course Page

 

More parkrun posts

parkruns are free, weekly, community 5k events all around the world. I started in December 2012 and have been obsessive about it ever since. See my parkrun Collection page for details.

Featured and popular parkrun posts:

Back to Run Index
Richard gowerRun, parkrun, Somerset, EnglandComment
Chiltern Walks: Flamstead and Redbourn

Fields to the west of Redbourn

Start & Finish: Free car park on West Common, Redbourn, St Albans AL3 7ND
Distance: 11.4 km (7 miles)
Elevation change: +/- 98m
Hertfordshire Way section covered: Flamstead to Redbourn: 4.2 km
GPX File: get via Buy Me a Coffee
Other routes touched (walk): Hertfordshire Way, Chiltern Way, Ver Valley Walk, River Ver Trail
Other routes touched (cycle): NCN 57
Pubs / Cafes on route: The Spotted Dog or The Three Blackbirds in Flamstead at 6.5 km in and several options in Redbourn at the start and end.
Map: St Albans & Hatfield Map | Hemel Hempstead & Welwyn Garden City | Ordnance Survey | OS Explorer Map 182
Links: Flamstead, Redbourn, River Ver

The Hertfordshire Way offers an incredible opportunity to circumnavigate one of England's home counties, revealing its hidden charms and surprising variety. This circular long-distance footpath, stretching around 273 km (170 miles), guides walkers through the county's most picturesque landscapes, proving that green spaces are never far, even in this area close to London. We walked the Chilterns part of the Hertfordshire Way in 15 sections over a couple of years. We used my “Greater Chilterns” definition that takes the trail from the River Lea near Wheathampstead to the River Colne near Garston. This route is one of those 15 circular walks.

The guidance below will help you navigate but don’t use it as a fully accurate turn-by-turn guide. Always take a map and/or a GPX route and prepare well for the weather and terrain.

For this walk we parked at the free car park on West Common near the cricket club. Walk along the tree-lined avenue in a north-easterly direction to Redbourn High Street. Cross over onto Watersend Road, following the River Ver Trail as it runs parallel to the River Ver. After 5km you’ll reach the M1 junction. This isn’t a pleasant section and be careful as you navigate the motorway underpass and cross the roundabout on the western side. Once across the junction you’ll be back into quieter farm and woodland on the 1 km section to Flamstead. You’re now over half way into the route and it’s a good chance to stop for a rest in either the Spotted Dog or Three Blackbirds.

At the junction of Flamstead High Street and Chapel Road you’ll pick up the Hertfordshire Way heading south along Trowley Hill Road. Approximately 0.5 km south of the Three Blackbirds you’ll take a footpath on the left as Trowley Hill Road curves to the west. Continue along the Hertfordshire Way initially in a southerly direction then curving towards the east. You’ll cross over the M1 again, but this time it’s a lot easier as it’s over a traffic-free bridge. Continue along the Hertfordshire Way back to the start at West Common, Redbourn

Back to Chiltern Walks Index
Richard gowerTrek, Chilterns, Hertfordshire, EnglandComment
Worcestershire Beacon: Worcestershire County Top

Descent from the southern side of Worcestershire Beacon with view to Herefordshire Beacon (British Camp)

Significance: Highest peak in Worcestershire (Historic County Top), Malvern Hills National Landscape
Member of: Marilyn, Hardy
Parent Peak: Hergest Ridge
Nearest higher Neighbour: Titterstone Clee Hill
Elevation: 425m
Date climbed: 19th April 2014 and 9th August 2025
Coordinates: 52°06′17″N 2°20′25″W


Route Start: Malvern Clock Tower, North Malvern Road, Malvern, WR14 4ND
Route Finish: British Camp Car Park, A449, Great Malvern, Malvern, WR13 6DW
Route Distance: 8.6 km (5.3 miles)
Route Elevation Change: +346m /- 249m. Net 97m
Subsidiary tops on route: End Hill (328m), North Hill (398m), Table Hill (375m), Sugarloaf Hill (369m), Summer Hill (383m), Perseverance Hill (324m), Jubilee hill (328m), Pinnacle Hill (358m), Black Hill (317m)
GPX File: get via Buy Me a Coffee
Other routes touched (walk): Geopark Way, Three Choirs Way, Worcestershire Way
Other routes touched (cycle): none
OS Trig Pillar: TP0724 - Malvern
Cafe / pubs on route: Cafe H20 or The Wyche Inn (just off route at 4.93km in), The Malvern Hills Hotel & Restaurant or Sally's Place at the end
Map: OS Explorer Map (190) Malvern Hills & Bredon Hill
Guidebook: The UK's County Tops (Jonny Muir), Walking the County High Points of England (David Bathurst)
Links: Wikipedia (Worcestershire), Wikipedia (Worcestershire Beacon), Peakbagger, Hillbagging

Worcestershire Beacon was an early bag for us in our UK County Tops mission. We were in Malvern to visit some friends and did the short 2.5 km out-and-back from the Beacon Road Car Park at Upper Wyche. It was a nice walk on a windy April day but it was always at the back of my mind to return one day to do the Malvern Ridge Properly. So, 11 years later, we returned for a long weekend to celebrate our anniversary and walk the northern half of the Ridge.

We were staying at the Malvern Hills Hotel at the end of the walk. It’s conveniently positioned at the base of Black Hill, the final summit of the northern half of the ridge. We were pleasantly surprised to that there was a good Uber service in town and we only had to wait 10 minutes to get picked up for the 15 minute drive to the Clock Tower.

From the Clock Tower walk up North Malvern Road in a north-westerly direction until you pass the town sign for West Malvern. Just before the road bends cross over to the left hand side to take the track up into the ridge. Soon the tree line will clear and you’ll already have spectacular views. Continue south to ascend to the first summit of End Hill. Table Hill is the next obvious summit heading south, but this route takes a left shortly after end Hill to scale North Hill before a sharp westerly turn to take in Table Hill. Continue heading south to summit Sugarloaf Hill then continue to the summit of Worcestershire Beacon.

Worcestershire Beacon is the highest point in the Historic County of Worcestershire. I also heard that there’s nothing higher to the east until the Ural Mountains in Russia. I’m not completely convinced of that so post a comment below if you know of a reliable source. The "Beacon" in it’s name points to its long-standing use as a crucial signaling point. The hill was part of a chain of warning fires lit to alert the country of the approaching Spanish Armada in 1588. This tradition continued for centuries, with fires being lit for national celebrations like Queen Victoria's Diamond Jubilee and the Millennium.

The section south of the Beacon to Upper Wyche is the busiest part of the walk with many doing the short out-and-back from the car park as we did 11 years before. If you’re bagging all of the summits remember to take in Summer Hill rather than following the main path around it.

Wyche Road at Upper Wyche is the only road crossing on the route at a little over half way. We were very happy to meet an ice cream van on the very hot day that we were there. There’s also a pub and cafe near the crossing and public toilets near the start of the ascent to Perseverance Hill.

This second half of the route has fewer people and is an easier section with gentler climbs between the summits. After Perseverance Hill you’ll pass over Jubilee Hill. Pinnacle Hill and Black Hill before descending to the end point at the Malvern Hills Hotel and British Camp car park on the A449. If you’re not ready to finish walking for the day you can rest a while here then take in the short circular up to Herefordshire Beacon. Scroll down for details.

Bonus Walk: Herefordshire Beacon and Millennium Hill

Route Start and Finish: British Camp Car Park, A449, Great Malvern, Malvern, WR13 6DW
Route Distance: 2.4 km (1.5 miles)
Route Elevation Change: +/- 83m
GPX File: get via Buy Me a Coffee
Other routes touched (walk): Three Choirs Way
Other routes touched (cycle): none
Map: OS Explorer Map (190) Malvern Hills & Bredon Hill
Links: Wikipedia: (Herefordshire Beacon / British Camp), Peakbagger: (Herefordshire Beacon / Millennium Hill), Hillbagger: Herefordshire Beacon,

If you’ve been following the main route above you’ll see Herefordshire Beacon in the distance for much for the walk. It’s distinguishable by a flat grassy top and ringed by earthworks. Summiting it plus Millenium Hill at the end of the plateau is a short, steep but rewarding walk either as an add on to the main ridge walk or a short walk in it’s own right.

OTHER HIGH POINT IN Worcesterhire

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Richard gowerTrek, UK County Tops, Mountain, Trig Pillar, Worcestershire, EnglandComment
Walking The Greensand Way through the Surrey Hills

Devil’s Punchbowl

The Greensand Way is a magnificent long-distance footpath that stretches for 108 miles (173 km) across the beautiful landscapes of Surrey and Kent in southeast England. From its western starting point in Haslemere, Surrey, the trail meanders eastward, culminating near Hamstreet in Kent, close to the edge of the Romney Marsh.

True to its name, the route predominantly follows the prominent Greensand Ridge, a geological feature that rises distinctly from the surrounding clay vales. This provides walkers with an incredibly varied and rewarding experience. You'll traverse ancient woodlands, including sections of the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and the Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, both celebrated for their natural beauty and ecological significance. The trail also passes through charming villages, open farmland, and areas of heathland, offering ever-changing vistas.

One of the defining characteristics of the Greensand Way is the breathtaking views it affords from its elevated position. From various points along the ridge, particularly in Surrey, you can often enjoy expansive panoramas across the Weald to the south, and northwards towards the more distant North Downs. The trail is well-marked with its distinctive Greensand Way logo, making it relatively easy to navigate, though its undulating nature with frequent ascents and descents can provide a good workout for walkers and runners alike.

Beyond the natural beauty, the Greensand Way is rich in history and heritage. You'll encounter historic churches, ancient castles and picturesque villages with traditional pubs, perfect for a refreshment stop. The trail also links to other significant walking routes, offering opportunities for longer adventures. Whether tackling the entire route over several days or enjoying shorter sections, the Greensand Way provides a fantastic opportunity to explore some of southern England's most picturesque and historically significant landscapes.

Point to Point: Walking the Greensand Way in the Surrey Hills

Start: Start of the Greensand Way at alley to the left of 43 High Street, Haslemere, GU27 2LA
Finish: Oxted Station, Oxted, RH8 9EU
Distance: 88 km (55 miles)
Elevation change: + 1,479m / - 1,522m. Net -46m
GPX File: get via Buy Me a Coffee
Maps:
- Haslemere & Petersfield Map | Midhurst & Selborne | Ordnance Survey | OS Explorer Map OL33
- Guildford & Farnham Map | Godalming & Farnborough | Ordnance Survey | OS Explorer Map 145
- Dorking, Box Hill & Reigate Map | Leatherhead & Caterham | Ordnance Survey | OS Explorer Map 146
Links: LDWA: Greensand Way, Surrey County Council: Greensand Way, Wikipedia: Greensand Way
See individual section posts linked below for other links.

Walking the Greensand Way in the Surrey Hills in 20 walks

If you’re not up for a 88 km walk in one go, you can take in the Greensand Way in the Surrey Hills in 20 walks of between 7 and 11 km each. We chose this option, completing all 20 sections over 2 years from 2022 to 2023. The advantage of this option is exploring more of the villages and side paths close to the route.

Each number refers to a circular walk below. Base map: Esri Topo via RideWithGPS

Section 1: Haslemere and Hindhead

  • Start & Finish: Start of the Greensand Way at alley to the left of 43 High Street, Haslemere, GU27 2LA

  • Alternative Start: National Trust Devil's Punchbowl Car Park, Thursley, Hindhead, GU26 6AG

  • Distance: 9.8 km (6.1 miles)

  • Elevation change: +/- 231m

Section 2: Devils Punchbowl and Thursley

  • Start & Finish: National Trust Devil's Punchbowl Car Park, Thursley, Hindhead, GU26 6AG

  • Distance: 11.1 km (6.9 miles)

  • Elevation change: +/- 199m

Section 3: Thursley and Witley Park

  • Start & Finish: St Michael and All Angels Church, Thursley, Godalming, GU8 6QQ

  • Distance: 10.9 km (6.8 miles)

  • Elevation change: +/- 163m

Section 4: Witley and Hambledon

  • Start & Finish: Hambledon Church, 1 Church Lane, Hambledon, Godalming, GU8 4DS

  • Distance: 9 km (5.6 miles)

  • Elevation change: +/- 124m

Section 5: Hydon’s Ball and Holloways Heath

  • Start & Finish: National Trust - Hydon's Ball and Heath car park, Salt Lane, Godalming, GU8 4BB

  • Distance: 9.3 km (5.8 miles)

  • Elevation change: +/- 172m

Section 6: Winkworth and Hascombe

  • Start & Finish: Free parking opposite the White Horse Pub, The Street, Hascombe, Godalming GU8 4JA

  • Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles)

  • Elevation change: +/- 179m

Section 7: Shamley Green and Grafham

  • Start & Finish: Shamley Green Christ Church, Church Hill, Shamley Green, Guildford, GU5 0UD

  • Distance: 10.3 km (6.4 miles)

  • Elevation change: +/- 107m

Section 8: Winterfold Wood and Reynards Hill

  • Start & Finish: Hurtwood Car Park 3, Pitch Hill, Cranleigh, GU6 7NL

  • Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles)

  • Elevation change: +/- 204m

Section 9: Pitch Hill and Holmbury Hill

  • Start & Finish: Hurtwood Car Park 3, Pitch Hill, Cranleigh, GU6 7NL

  • Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles),

  • Elevation change: +/- 239m

Section 10: Leith Hill and Broadmoor

  • Start & Finish: Starveall Car Park, Leith Hill Rd, Dorking, RH5 6LU

  • Distance: 10.3 km (6.4 miles)

  • Elevation Change: +/- 206m



Section 11: Westcott and Bury Hill

  • Start & Finish: Holy Trinity Westcott, Logmore Lane, Westcott, Dorking RH4 3NN

  • Distance: 9 km (5.6 miles)

  • Elevation change: +/- 163m

Section 12: The Nower and Dorking

  • Start & Finish: Reigate Road Car Park, 9 Reigate Rd, Dorking RH4 1SN

  • Distance: 10.8 km (6.7 miles)

  • Elevation change: +/- 222m

Section 13: Brockham and Betchworth

  • Start & Finish: St Michael's Church, The Street, Betchworth, RH3 7DN

  • Distance: 10.4 km (6.5 miles)

  • Elevation change: +/- 149m

Section 14: Betchworth and Reigate Heath

  • Start & Finish: St Michael's Church, The Street, Betchworth, RH3 7DN

  • Distance: 9.6 km (5.9 miles)

  • Elevation change: +/- 98m

Section 15: Reigate and Redhill Common

  • Start & Finish: Bell St Car Park, 83 Bell Street, Reigate, RH2 7AN

  • Distance: 9.1 km (5.6 miles)

  • Elevation change: +/- 136m

Section 16: Earlswood and Nutfield Priory

  • Start & Finish: St John the Evangelist Church, Redhill, Church Rd, Redhill, RH1 6QA

  • Distance: 8.8 km (5.5 miles)

  • Elevation change: +/- 165m

Section 17: Nutfield and Bletchingley

  • Start & Finish: High Street, Bletchingley, Redhill, RH1 4PA

  • Distance: 9.9 km (6.1 miles)

  • Elevation change: +/- 164m

Section 18: Bletchingley and Godstone

  • Start & Finish: High Street, Bletchingley, Redhill, RH1 4PA

  • Distance: 10.4 km (6.5 miles)

  • Elevation change: +/- 143m

Section 19: Tandridge and Oxted

  • Start & Finish: Oxted Station, Oxted, RH8 9EU

  • Distance: 10.6 km (6.6 miles)

  • Elevation change: +/- 165m

Section 20: Oxted and Limpsfield

  • Start & Finish: Oxted Station, Oxted, RH8 9EU

  • Distance: 11.2 km (7 miles)

  • Elevation change: +/- 142m

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Richard gowerTrek, National Trust, Trig Pillar, Surrey Hills, Surrey, EnglandComment
Medieval Waverley Circular Walk

Tilford Bridge

Start and Finish: Parking on Tilford Green, 2 Tilford Street, Tilford, Farnham, GU10 2BN
Distance: 9.3 km (5.8 miles)
Elevation Change: +/- 170m
GPX File: get via Buy Me a Coffee
Other Routes Touched (walk): None
Other Routes Touched (cycle): Surrey Cycleway
OS Trig Pillar: TP2614 - Crooksbury Hill
Cafe / pubs on route: The Barley Mow Tilford (at start and end), The Barley Mow in The Sands (4.2 km in)
Map: Guildford & Farnham Map | Godalming & Farnborough | Ordnance Survey | OS Explorer Map 145
Links: River Wey, Tilford, Waverley, Waverley Abbey, Seale and Sands, Surrey’s Countryside: Medieval Waverley

We did this walk as an epilogue to our Walking the River Wey and Wey Navigation series. In those 9 walks we followed the Wey from its confluence with the Thames at Weybridge to Eashing, the final place you can access via footpath. Further upstream to the south-east you’ll find Tilford, with a medieval bridge that spans the river near where it splits and leads to 2 different sources.

This walk is part of Surrey County Council’s “Surrey Countryside” walks and is well documented on their web-site. I won’t repeat anything here as it’s a great guide to the walk.

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Richard gowerTrek, Trig Pillar, Surrey, Surrey Hills, EnglandComment
Walking The River Wey and Wey Navigation

The Wey Navigation near Byfleet

The River Wey Navigation, often simply referred to as the Wey Navigation, is a remarkable feat of 17th-century engineering that transformed the natural course of the River Wey into a navigable waterway. Stretching for just under 20 miles (32 km) through the heart of Surrey, from Godalming to its confluence with the River Thames at Weybridge, it holds the distinction of being one of Britain's first truly successful navigations. Opened in 1653, its creation predates many other well-known canals, making it a pioneering example of inland waterway transport and a vital artery for goods like timber, flour, and agricultural produce to reach London.

Unlike many later canals that involved extensive cutting and embankment, the Wey Navigation largely followed the natural river course, enhanced by a series of 17 locks, weirs, and cuts. This blend of natural river and engineered improvements allowed barges to bypass shallow sections and rapids, ensuring a reliable transport route. The infrastructure along the navigation is a testament to the ingenuity of its original builders, with many of the locks, lock houses, and associated buildings retaining their historic character. Walking or cycling along its towpaths offers a picturesque journey through diverse landscapes, from tranquil water meadows and ancient woodlands to the fringes of bustling towns like Guildford.

Today, the Wey Navigation is no longer a commercial highway but has found a new life as a cherished recreational asset. Managed by the National Trust since 1968, it provides a haven for wildlife and a tranquil escape for visitors. Boating, canoeing, and paddleboarding are popular activities, offering a unique perspective of the Surrey countryside. Anglers enjoy its well-stocked waters, and birdwatchers are often rewarded with sightings of kingfishers, herons, and various waterfowl.

Beyond its recreational appeal, the Wey Navigation serves as a living museum, offering insights into the industrial past of Surrey. Many of the old wharves and warehouses can still be seen, hinting at the bustling trade that once flowed along its waters. Interpretive boards along the route provide snippets of its history, and the National Trust actively works to conserve its heritage, ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy this historic waterway. Whether you're interested in engineering history, wildlife, or simply a peaceful day out, the Wey Navigation offers a rich and rewarding experience, connecting communities with nature and a fascinating past.

Point to Point: Walking the Wey Navigation

Start: Thames Lock, Jessamy Road, Weybridge, KT13 8LG
Finish: Godalming Station, Station Approach, Godlaming, GU7 1EU
Distance: 32.5 km (20.2 miles)
Elevation change: + 146m / - 111m. Net -35m
GPX File: get via Buy Me a Coffee
Maps:
- OS Explorer Map (160) Windsor, Weybridge & Bracknell
- Guildford & Farnham Map | Godalming & Farnborough | Ordnance Survey | OS Explorer Map 145
Links: LWDA: Wey Navigations, Wikipedia: Wey and Godalming Navigations, National Trust: River Wey and Godalming Navigations
See individual section posts linked below for other links.

Walking the Wey Navigation and River Wey in 9 walks

If you’re not up for a 32 km walk in one go, you can take in the Wey Navigation and River Wey in 9 walks of between 7 and 12 km each. We chose this option, completing all 9 sections over 2 years from 2024 to 2025. Two of the walks are point-to-point with an easy rail connection from the finish back to the start. The others are circular walks from good parking spots. The final section follows the River Wey beyond the end of the Wey Navigation to Eashing, the final point where you can walk next to the river.

Each number refers to a circular walk below. Base map: Esri Topo via RideWithGPS

Part 1: Weybridge and Desborough Island

  • Start & Finish: Churchfield Car Park, Churchfield Road, Weybridge, KT13 8DB

  • Distance: 8.4 km (5.2 miles)

  • Elevation Change: +/- 34m

Part 2: Weybridge Locks and Levels Trail

  • Start & Finish: Churchfield Car Park, Churchfield Road, Weybridge, KT13 8DB

  • Distance: 7.3 km (4.5 miles)

  • Elevation Change: +/- 43m

Part 3: New Haw and Byfleet

  • Start / Finish: Weybridge Railway Station, Station Approach, Weybridge, KT13 8UD

  • Distance: 7.3 km (4.5 miles)

  • Elevation Change: +/- 28m

Part 4: Byfleet and Wisley

  • Start & Finish: High Road Parking, 10 High Road, Byfleet, West Byfleet, KT14 7QG

  • Distance: 8.1 km (5 miles)

  • Elevation Change: +/- 33m

Part 5: Canons and Cornmills

  • Start & Finish: Ripley High Street, Ripley, Woking, GU23 6AN

  • Distance: 8.6 km (5.3 miles)

  • Elevation Change: +/- 50m

Part 6: Newark Lane and Send

  • Start & Finish: Newark Lane Car Park, Ripley, Woking, GU23 7ES

  • Distance: 9.7 km (6 miles)

  • Elevation Change: +/- 39m

Part 7: Worplesdon to Guildford

  • Start: Worplesdon Station, Woking, GU22 0RN

  • Finish: Guildford Station, Guildford GU1 4UT

  • Distance: 11.9 km (7.4 miles)

  • Elevation Change: +/- 52m

Part 8: Guildford to Godalming

  • Start: Guildford Station, Guildford GU1 4UT

  • Finish: Godalming Station, Godalming GU7 1EU

  • Distance: 8.9 km (5.5 miles)

  • Elevation Change: +49m / - 42m. Net +7m

Part 9: Godalming and Eashing

  • Start and Finish: Crown Court Car Park, 41 The Burys, Godalming, GU7 1HR

  • Alternative Start and Finish: Godalming Station, Godalming GU7 1EU

  • Distance: 8.2 km (5.1 miles)

  • Elevation Change: +/- 90m

Epilogue: Medieval Waverley

  • Start and Finish: Parkin on Tilford Green, 2 Tilford Street, Tilford, Farnham, GU10 2BN

  • Distance: 9.3 km (5.8 miles)

  • Elevation Change: +/- 170m

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Richard gowerTrek, National Trust, National Trails, Trig Pillar, Surrey Hills, Canal, Surrey, EnglandComment
Ales & Trails 3 Brewers 10k

When: July 27th 2025
Where: The 3 Brewers of St. Albans, The Potato Shed, Symondshyde Farm, Symondshyde Lane, Hatfield AL10 9BB
Organiser: Racing Line Running
Distance: 10 km
Elevation: +/- 110m
Course: 2 lap loop of farmland to the north of the Brewery.
Other routes touched (Walk): Hertfordshire Way, The Romans and Nomansland Trail
Finish time: 57 minutes, 43 seconds

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Richard gowerRun, 10k, Hertfordshire, EnglandComment
The Salisbury OS Baseline

The Trig Pillar that stands in place of the northern Cannon

For anyone who has ever consulted an Ordnance Survey map, the precision and detail are immediately apparent. But few might realise that the foundations of this remarkable mapping endeavour lie in meticulously measured "baselines," and one of the most historically significant of these is the Salisbury Plain Baseline.

Established in 1794 by Captain William Mudge of the Royal Artillery, under the nascent Board of Ordnance (the precursor to today's Ordnance Survey), the Salisbury Plain Baseline was a crucial component of the "Principal Triangulation of Great Britain." This ambitious project aimed to accurately map the entire British Isles, driven in part by military considerations during a period of threatened French invasion.

The baseline on Salisbury Plain stretched for approximately 11.2 km between a point near Old Sarum Castle and Beacon Hill, east of Amesbury. The measurement was an incredibly painstaking process for the time. Surveyors used meticulously calibrated 100-foot steel chains, taking into account factors like temperature changes and the Earth's curvature. To mark the precise ends of this vital line, cannons were buried muzzle-up at both locations one of which can still be found today near Old Sarum, a testament to the enduring legacy of this work.

The significance of the Salisbury Plain Baseline cannot be overstated. By accurately measuring this fundamental distance, Mudge and his team could then use a large, precise theodolite (an instrument for measuring angles) to establish a network of triangles across the country. Through trigonometry, the precise positions of hundreds of landmarks could be determined, forming the bedrock for all subsequent, more detailed local surveys. The accuracy achieved by these early surveyors was remarkable; it's estimated that Mudge's overall survey across Britain was no more than 20 metres out compared to modern GPS measurements. The Salisbury Plain Baseline, therefore, stands as a tangible monument to the dawn of systematic, scientific mapping in Britain, a pivotal step in creating the detailed maps we rely on today.

Further Reading: Principal Triangulation of Great Britain

The Baseline route

I discovered the Hounslow Baseline in 2018 and cycled between the 2 cannons in Kingston and Heathrow. On discovering that there was another Baseline in Salisbury I was keen to cycle that too. I changed my plans when I discovered that you can’t cycle very close to the line itself. The route, which I drove instead, takes you along the busy A345, through Amesbury then onto the even busier A335 dual carriageway. Driving is much safer and there’s free parking spaces a short way from each cannon.

Salisbury Plain Baseline Cannon South

To access the southern cannon there’s a layby suitable for 5 cars opposite the Harvester Old Sarum Castle on Castle Road. If you’re visiting the Old Sarum English Heritage site you can also use their large car park although there is a charge.

Cross over the road to the eastern side and walk along the pavement in a northerly direction for approximately 500 metres until you reach the welcome to Salisbury sign. You’ll see the Mapping Monument Stone on the right of the pavement. Look behind the Monument Stone and you should be able to see the top of the Cannon poking up through the earth in the maize field. Some reports on Trigpointing say that they couldn’t see the Cannon due to hedge overgrowth or crops in the field but it was clearly visible on the day in July that I went.

Trigpointing.uk record: TP7570 - Salisbury Plain Baseline South

Salisbury Plain Baseline Cannon North

After the southern cannon drive north along the A345, then onto the A335 heading east after Amesbury. Shortly after the A3028 joins the road, pull into the small parking space at the side of the road. Be very careful getting out of the car here as it’s a very fast road.

Take the path on the left just east of the parking space and follow it up to the top of the hill. After ~650m you’ll reach the Trig Pillar, just off the main path. The Trig Pillar stands in place of the original cannon. From the pillar you can get great views across to Salisbury to the south-west.

Trigpointing.uk record: TP8928 - Salisbury Plain Baseline North
Trigpointing.uk record: TP0742 - Beacon Hill
Peakbagger record: Beacon Hill, England

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Richard gowerTrek, Trig Pillar, Wiltshire, EnglandComment