The Harrow circular, West Ilsley

Start : The Harrow, West Ilsley (RG20 7AR) Grid ref. SU 470826

(S/E) Go a few yards West from the pub.

(1) Fork right up a track that climbs steadily up hill for about a mile and a half to join the Ridgeway at East Hendred Down.

(2) Turn sharp right and follow the Ridgeway in an East-South-East direction for a further mile and a half.

(3) Cross a minor road and car park straight ahead on the way. (You can shorten the route by turning right here and going straight back to the pub.)

(4) Then turn right for a mile passing Folly Farm on your right.

(5) Then, turn right again onto a footpath that re-crosses that road and shortly turns 80 degrees left to come out on the road near the pub. (S/E)

Start : The Harrow, West Ilsley (RG20 7AR) Grid ref. SU 470826

Driving to start : About 11 miles from Newbury via the A34. Take the first turn-off after the Chieveley Interchange, and follow signs for West Ilsley in about a mile and a half.

Refreshments : The pub, by the cricket ground, has recently reopened after the lockdown. They offer a fairly standard pub menu, and the standard was very good on a visit in March 2022. Sandwiches are also available at lunchtime. Closed on Mondays.

Alternative : The walk may be shortened by turning right when you first meet the minor road at the waypoint (3), and following it downhill to the village (Blue arrow).

Find more walks at Newbury Pub Walks here.