Avon Valley Path

The Avon Valley Path was created in 1992. It is a 34 mile walking route, which takes you from the beautiful Salisbury Cathedral in Wiltshire, south through Hampshire and to the sea at Christchurch in Dorset.

The following is an extract from the Hampshire Council's Guide, which is also available as a download below, complete with a walking map:

"The Avon Valley Path begins in the county of Wiltshire at the statue of The Walking Madonna by Elizabeth Frink, which stands near the north porch of the magnificent medieval Salisbury Cathedral; its landmark spire is the tallest in Britain and is visible for miles around, guiding travellers into the city.

The cathedral was built on a marshy site where five rivers – the Wylye, Avon, Ebble, Nadder and Bourne – all converge. Surrounding this awe-inspiring cathedral are the massive ancient walls and serene lawns of The Close where you will find the charming Mompesson House, a 13th century banqueting hall and two outstanding museums, the Salisbury and South Wiltshire Museum and the Wardrobe Military Museum.

Leave The Close by the South Gate (Harnham Gate) and cross the River Avon via Harnham Bridge, built in 1245. Then past The Rose and Crown Inn, or perhaps stop for an early rest at this halftimbered 13th century inn, as the view across the river to the cathedral from the riverside lawns is outstanding.

Continue along Bishop’s Walk and up Harnham Hill and then over the open chalk downland of Homington Down towards Dogdean Farm, before dropping down to the River Ebble and the pretty village of Odstock. Stop for a break at the renowned Yew Tree pub or visit St Mary’s churchyard where the rose-covered grave of Joshua Scamp lies. Then the Path takes you south of the village of Nunton.

The Path winds around the foot of Clearbury Down from which you can clearly see Clearbury Ring, an Iron Age hill fort, past the curious octagonal Round House and through Charlton All Saints; it then runs alongside the water meadows where you get your first sight of the intricate irrigation system used to ‘drown’ the meadows. At the 17th century New Court Farm, turn left over the bridge and follow the causeway through the meadows and into Downton."

The Path takes you directly alongside All Saints' Church. You will be able to see the Avon Valley Path signs at our traditional iron kissing gate. We invite you to use our picnic bench in the churchyard, or step inside our little Church. There is always a glass of water available for visitors. On a hot day, the Church provides some cool respite. On a wet and windy day, it will give you shelter from the elements. The Church is open every day from 9am to 5pm.

In August 2025, we are planning some Pop Up Cafe dates for walkers, at which tea, coffee and cake will be available. Please see our Events section for dates.

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