Walk 3417 - printer friendly version

Silbury Hill and West Kennett Long Barrow from Avebury Walk

Author - Lou Johnson

Length - 3.0 miles / 4.9 km

Ascent - 100 feet / 30 metres

Grade - easy

Start - OS grid reference SU099696
Lat 51.425324 + Long -1.859001
Postcode SN8 1RF (approx. location only)

The area around the village of Avebury has much to offer including some of the finest ancient monuments in Britain. This short walk starts from the village of Avebury where you can explore the wonderful stone circle and takes you past Silbury Hill to the West Kennett Long Barrow. Do remember that Avebury can get very busy on fine days and if you wish to explore the stone circle in the centre of the village without too many people then an early start is recommended.

The walk can be reached by public transport using the regular bus service between Swindon and Marlborough. Alternatively there is a National Trust pay and display car park (grid ref. SU099696) on the southern side of the village. Leave the car park using the exit onto the A4361 main road. Cross with care and follow the signed footpath opposite across fields.

This leads you alongside a brook with an excellent view of Silbury Hill on your right, which is completely man-made and dates from about 4750 years ago. It has been calculated that it took 500 men about 15 years to construct and is the largest structure of its kind in Europe. Access to hill is not possible so you have to be content to enjoy it from a distance.

Continue to the A4 main road. Cross with care and take the signed footpath opposite. This leads without any navigational problems across a field. You will see people ahead making the final ascent to the West Kennett Long Barrow which is remarkably well preserved. Information boards explain its history.

All that remains is to retrace your steps back to Avebury perhaps continuing into the village to explore the Stone Circle and also for refreshment.

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