The rolling downs north of Devizes are grand exercise for The Pack. We last did this walk in February 2013 when 16 hounds turned up (see here). Led by Dawn & Brian from Pewsey - with possible guidance from Guy - it is a smidgeon over five miles and involves a gentle decline and modest incline out of a sheltered grassy valley. (Dawn tells me there is an alternative route about two thirds of the way round for those who would prefer a shorter walk.)

Two-thirds of the way round we come across The Wansdyke a most impressive ditch fortification that runs from Savernake maybe right up to Bath. Experts differ on how old it is but the section we walk along is thought to have been built in the 6th century ie after the Romans left and before the Anglo Saxons took over. It may have had a timber wall on top. We walk along the ramparts thinking all the time of how to dig up such an enormous amount of earth when equipped with some antlers, no wheelbarrows let alone a JCB. Amazing.

We meet at a car park called Smallgrain picnic area ¼ mile north of N Wilts Golf Club (for start map see here). Start 10.30 as usual. Postcode for Golf Club (SN10 2LP) for your SatNav.

If coming from the south, drive through Devizes towards Swindon and Marlborough (A361). Two miles further on turn left marked on a brown sign N Wilts Golf Club. After a mile drive past the golf club which will be on your left and 400 yds past on the brow of a rise look for a small green sign to Smallgrain on your right (see photo top right).

From Calne take the A4 towards Marlborough. After approx 2 miles turn right to Bishops Cannings (there is a brown golf sign). Then look for the green sign BEFORE you reach the golf course. From Marlborough take the A4 towards Calne. At the Beckhampton roundabout take the first exit onto the A361 marked Devizes. Proceed for approx 2 miles and then turn right (there is a brown golf sign).

Impressive Wansdyke

Entrance to Smallgrain Picnic area
(seen coming from the south, past the golf club)

Calston Combes

"I spy sheep".

Walk along the Wansdyke.