Friday, 28th March, 2025 – Start: 10:00 am

A Sally in the Woods with Wolves

Circular walk from the historic village of Bathford up through the SSSI of Browne’s Folly Nature Reserve then onto the plateau taking in parts of the Palladian Way via Farleigh Wick, Monkton Farleigh, Kingsdown and Ashley.
There is a bus stop adjacent to the start point for the regular (every 20 minutes) No.3 service from Bath and the No. 271 service from Melksham.

A Sally in the Woods with Wolves

Distance

8 miles / 12.87 km

Duration

5 to 5.25 hours

Difficulty

Moderate

Shape

Circular

Route description

Starting on a forgotten Roman road and with an intriguing glimpse of Bathford’s rich history, the legends of Sally-in-the-Woods and Browne’s Folly quickly follow.

If you are quiet and quick you may get a glimpse of Wiltshire’s wolves before discovering the ghostly Monks of Monkton Farleigh!  This walk abounds with
fascinating sights and discoveries from WW2 ammunition depots in abandoned mines and railway sidings, the lairs of highwaymen, far distant views of the Marlborough Downs, Roman coin hoards to old stagecoach routes to London.

You also get to walk on one of the oldest golf courses in the South West so watch out for balls!

Bring a packed lunch and drinks as sadly the pub at Monkton Farleigh is currently closed. There will be opportunities for mid-morning and afternoon breaks with tea in the shop afterwards, if you wish.

Meet for 10am start at the walkers display board outside Bathford Community Shop, BA1 78SN.

Photo of Browne’s Folly courtesy of  David Le Lohé

Organised by: Cotswold Voluntary Wardens

Led by: David Le Lohé and Rob Morley

Start

Address

Bathford Village Shop & Cafe, Bathford Hill, Bathford, Bath BA1 7SN, UK
View start on Google Maps

OS Grid Ref

ST 37911669

What3Words

Trips.Twice.Daring