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Walk the Wansdyke and the K&A Canal
This walk takes in two historic defences — the Kennet & Avon Canal that formed part of the UK’s southern defences during the 2nd World War — and the Wansdyke, a defensive bank and ditch built in the Dark Ages that runs
from the Avon Valley south of Bristol to Savernake Forest
The Wansdyke is a 45 mile-long defensive ditch and bank thought to have been
built in about the 5th century AD.
1
Start at the Bridge Inn at Horton and follow the towpath eastwards towards
Pewsey.
2
Cross over the canal at the swing bridge and into the village of Bishops
Cannings.
After passing the farm on your left and two or three cottages a take a left turn
into Church Lane which will take you to The Church of St Mary the Virgin which
has 12th century origins. If you carry on through the churchyard you will come
to the Crown Inn.
3
Retrace your steps back along Church Lane.
Turn left at the end and follow the road through the village, passing the school
on your right.
The Bridge Inn beside the canal at Horton
The Church of St Mary the Virgin, Bishops Cannings was built in 12th century, possibly on the site of an earlier Saxon or early
Norman church.
The Crown, Bishops Cannings
4
Turn right at the school and follow the road out of the village, passing several
turnings to the right until you meet a forked junction with two ‘no through road’ signs and a post box on a telegraph pole.
5
Take the left-hand fork and follow the road, bearing right after 1⁄4 mile and follow it upwards until it crosses the Wansdyke with styles either
side of the lane.Turn right and follow the Wansdyke path, taking in the views
over the Kennet valley and look out for evidence of the ancient field systems
known as Strip Lynchets. Continue past the first track descending from the
ridge.
6
Turn right off the Wansdyke path at the next track which will take you on to a
concrete farm track that will take you down to the main road.
7
When you reach the main road, turn right and join the towpath at the canal
bridge in 200 yards. Follow the towpath around what is known as the Horton Loop to reach
the Bridge Inn and — no doubt — some welcome refreshments.
The swing bridge over the K&A Canal at Bishops Cannings
