Walkers Hill, Milk Hill and canal loop – 16 km circular with paragliders and White Horse views
I meant to write this blog post weeks ago but somehow time flew. Better late than never.
This was our “Rambling On Together” walk on 27th April, in Wiltshire.
This was a walk I did with Gary and Johnny on a warm, sunny day that offered everything I could hope for – stunning views, plenty of wildlife, and great company.
It was also the day after I first noticed some pain in my right knee. I wasn’t sure how I’d manage the walk, but with the help of hiking poles, it didn’t hurt at all on the day – a relief and a small win.
We set off from the Pewsey Downs car park and climbed onto the ridge before descending towards the canal. The walk along the towpath was peaceful and scenic. We made a welcome coffee stop at Honeystreet Café, which was just the thing for a short break in the sunshine.
We were treated to lots of wildlife throughout the walk. A couple of fields were full of large rabbits, and just a short while later, two deer crossed the path right in front of us. There were birds everywhere, and we passed plenty of cows and sheep, including some newborn lambs.
The climb back up through Alton Barnes and Alton Priors was steady and rewarding. We passed Walkers Hill (260 m) and the striking chalk figure of the Alton Barnes White Horse, before continuing up to Milk Hill (295 m) – the highest point in Wiltshire.
The views across the Pewsey Downs were absolutely breathtaking. We were lucky enough to see dozens of paragliders launching from the hills, catching the thermals and drifting above us. To top it all off, we saw biplanes flying in formation overhead just as we were making our way back to the car park.
As always with Gary and Johnny, there was plenty of laughter and easy conversation. It really was a special day – one of those walks that stays with you.
12 April 2025 Distance: 15.88 km Elevation Gain: 420 m
Route: Dinas Rock → Pull Berw → Sgwd yr Eira → Sgwd y Pannwr → Sgwd Isaf Clun Gwyn → Sgwd Clun Gwyn → Sgwd Ddwli Uchaf → Sgwd y Bedol → Sgwd Gwladus
A week ago today, a group of us (Kerry, Gary, Johnny and I) embarked on an early morning adventure, setting off at 06:30 and arriving at Dinas Rock before 09:00, with a brief coffee and convenience stop in Merthyr Tydfil.
The plan was to walk an extended version of the Four Waterfalls Walk, and it delivered as we saw over 10 waterfalls.
We started the walk with a steep couple of climbs!
Our journey began with Pull Berw, a serene introduction to the cascading wonders ahead.
The path to Sgwd yr Eira was both challenging and rewarding.
We witnessed some smoke and flames, along a ridge in the distance – wildfires. It’s sobering reminder of nature’s fragility.
Walking behind the curtain of water at Sgwd yr Eira was a highlight, offering a unique perspective of nature’s power. Then we faced the 170 steps back up the path that tested our endurance.
The trail continued to Sgwd Isaf Clun Gwyn, where a steep scramble added an element of adventure.
Lunch at Sgwd Ddwli Uchaf provided a moment of respite, accompanied by the soothing sounds of flowing water…until a lot of families arrived and we felt it was time to move on.
We then left the Four waterfalls area and headed onto the Elidir trail.
A delightful detour to Clyngwyn Farm Bunkhouse and Café offered a sweet treat. I had an ice cream. The misspelt “Barra brith” on the menu brought a chuckle(I need to learn not to correct people on spelling in their own language!), but the warm hospitality and delicious offerings made it a memorable stop.
The next stretch, past some farms and along a stream up to Pont Melin Fach didn’t feature waterfalls but was really pleasant and picturesque along the steam.
There started the new streak of Waterfalls – we saw the sixth waterfall of the day: Sgwd Ddwli Uchaf. And then so many that we stopped counting…
A surprise awaited us at Sgwd y Bedol—a lone swimmer embracing nature in its purest form! We didn’t need these sights! I’ll spare you the photo of the man to keep his privacy… But to be fair I don’t think he had any concerns about keeping himself private at all!
The final stretch led us to Sgwd Gwladus, where we once again walked behind the waterfall, just after an unexpected slip reminded me of the trail’s unpredictability. I didn’t get hurt. Just my ego bruised!
The Bannau Brycheiniog never ceases to amaze. Each waterfall, each path, and each unexpected moment contributed to a day filled with laughter, awe, and a deep appreciation for the natural world.
I’d been there twice before but each time it feels different and looks different, depending on the seasons and the company.
Sharing this experience with Kerry, Gary, and Johnny made it all the more special.
📍 Avebury + Ridgeway + West Kennet Long Barrow (12.6 km)
Some hikes aren’t just about the distance or the views—they’re about the people you share them with. Last wednesday’s midweek wander through the Avebury countryside was exactly that: a day of sunshine, open skies, and soul-restoring friendship.
I took a day’s leave to walk with my best friend Sam, and it turned out to be one of those perfect spring days where everything feels a little bit lighter.
It started with Sam having given me a bag of snacks – homemade trail mix with similar contents we had on the Clarendon Way! My favourite!!
The Ridgeway gave us big skies and long views, Silbury hill sanding still in the landscap,, West Kennet Long Barrow quiet and ancient in the sunshine, and the company—well, that was the best bit of all.
Sam and I met through work at Cranfield University ten years ago this month, and somehow that early connection grew into something much deeper. She’s seen me through a lot over the years, and time with her, especially walking with her always brings comfort, laughter, and the kind of honest conversations and laughter that only happen with someone who really gets you.
We even had a moment of classic hilarity—spotting a wooden post and thinking it was a deer(To be fair, from a distance I thought it was a pheasant…)! But straight after we did see deer!
These are the good days: fresh air, shared stories, and the kind of company that reminds you you’re never walking alone.
We had refreshments at the National Trust café in Avebury and started thinking about our next hike together !
Grateful for every step.
And just like that, after a few days of daily posts, I’ve caught up on my 2025 hike reports.
We’re planning two group hikes in April open to my friends, and I have a busy month of fitness challenges in May which I’ll post about too.
Fresh from the wild ridges of the Dragon’s Back the day before, I headed out again —this time to Dragon Hill and the iconic Uffington White Horse. Definitely a winter walk, the sun didn’t make an appearance at all and the wind was biting at times, but the company and views more than made up for it.
We went around Wayland’s Smithy too on the way back.
This was a special one: Thoko asked me to take her on a hike, as she’s not used to hikes, and she absolutely smashed it.
That climb wasn’t easy—especially with the wind — but she powered through. It was a real joy to walk and chat together.
We were treated to the sight of majestic red kites soaring above Dragon Hill, adding a touch of magic to an already beautiful route.
A quieter, gentler pace than yesterday’s mountain adventure, but no less rewarding.
It’s such a gift to share these landscapes—and to see someone discover their own strength along the way.
Over a week on and I’m still buzzing from this one—an absolutely epic day out on the Dragon’s Back! We went to Hay-on-Wye for the Riverside parkrun first which was really lovely.
This hike was everything: tough, wild, a bit cold at times, and utterly breathtaking.
We set out with high spirits and solid legs, and by the end we’d tamed the ridges and conquered the peaks. The climbs were no joke, especially up to Waun Fach (811 m), but every step was worth it for those views.
It felt like we were climbing for the first five kilometres. From the ruins of Castell Dinas (450 m) to the sweep of the Black Mountains from Pen y Grib (493 m), this route delivered in every way.
It was the third organised walk from the series but the second attended by friends.
As for the first one, I planned the route on paper maps, GPS Garmin device and OS Maps app. I sent a kit list, admin instructions including elevation and overall hole description, as well as a timed itinerary, and everyone was prepared. I also provided the customary flapjacks.
The company was brilliant (thanks Gary, Johnny and Gary!), the weather held, and the landscape felt like something straight out of a fantasy novel.
Being there, at the top of those hills brings me such joy I don’t know how to put it in words and pictures can’t show it either… it’s somehow awe for nature we are with, a sense of insignificance and impermanence that makes me feel free from daily worries. It just fills my happiness tank!
I haven’t stopped smiling since. This was a hike that reminded me why the mountains are my happy place.
Highlights:
Sweeping ridges with huge views
A proper leg-burner with rewarding climbs (yes, it’s a positive!)
Sunshine, lovely friends, and moments of pure joy
Already planning to return. If you’re up for a challenge and love wild beauty, Dragon’s Back is calling!!
Our first Rambling On Together group hike of 2025 took us from the Richard Jefferies Museum to the Ridgeway, Liddington Hillfort and back—a lovely 17 km loop with pretty views, and great company.
I was joined by Johnny and Gary and, miraculously, avoided the rain! We had grey skies in this first day of February but it remained dry. It was chilly at the summit of Liddington Castle (275 m), but the views more than made up for it. We tucked into lunch and hot drinks up top, with homemade flapjacks keeping us going.
Along the way we spotted red kites, and even caught sight of a deer (you might just make it out in one of the photos). The Curly-Wurly Bridge also featured of course, and there was no shortage of good chat.
This was the first of the hikes I’m sharing with friends to join as a group.
I planned the route, shared a kit list and organised timings and I’m happy how it worked out. I’d also brought homemade flapjacks for the group.
Here’s to many more miles ahead.
I am posting this eight weeks later and we’ve hiked again since. I’ll share in the next post.
Before jumping into 2025 adventures (which have started), here’s a summary of some unforgettable hikes from last year, which I didn’t get a chance to post about but I’m going to do a bit of a photo dump to record them!
Photo dump incoming…
1 June 2024:
Lovely hike up Win Green in Wiltshire on my way to Sarah’s house before the Clarendon Walk.
There are extensive views, with Bournemouth, the Isle of Wight, Salisbury, Glastonbury Tor, the Mendips, the Quantocks and Milk Hill all visible in clear conditions. It is classed as a Marilyn, and is a landmark due to the clump of trees on the high point.
2 June 2024: Clarendon Walk – 26 miles of walking with Sam and Sarah to support Naomi House Children’s Hospice. A physically challenging but heartwarming day for an amazing cause.
It was really 27 miles & we walked an extra mile from and to the carpark – 29 miles
15 June 2024: Edale Skyline Challenge – Peak District magic with Andrea.
One of the hardest and most rewarding hikes I’ve ever done. The views and terrain were breathtaking and the weather kept changing – I’m definitely coming back for more adventures here!
We saw a rainbow right by us on the last mile.
30 June 2024: Sugar Loaf
A quick and scenic 2.5-hour hike with Fran. Stunning wildlife and surroundings made this a perfect day. A manageable climb that would also be fantastic for trail running.
26-27 July 2024: Mynydd Du Fforest Grwyne Fawr Reservoir Walk
Amazing weekend, walk to the reservoir with Dan, wild camp under clear skies, great food, laughter, all the weather on day two, forest walk and stop in a pub garden on the way back. Very cool.
18 August 2024: Cleeve Hill with Sam
Cleeve Hill (330 m) Lovely 5 mile stroll with my bestie Sam. Lovely day out and such great views.
5 October 2024: Pen-y-fan with running club friends
Afternoon the Y Promenâd parkrun, five of us had a challenging, windy , but (mostly) sunny climb up 🏔️Corn Du and 🏔️Pen Y Fan. 3h (ish) – 520m elevation… Brilliant little trip!
1 November 2024: Savernake Forest
A vibrant autumn hike with Andrea, Joanna, and Claudia. The colours, crisp air, and great company made it awesome.
30 November 2024: Ashbury to Ashdown House (via the Ridgeway)
A wonderful day with Danny, combining great chats and Ridgeway’s rolling landscapes.
30 December 2024: Wilton Windmill Loop
My daughters joined me for a 10km adventure! It was such a fun loop – a perfect way to end the year.
Now I can focus on 2025 hikes while these memories stay documented!
I took an impromptu road trip to Pembrokeshire in May, and that’s the quick summary.
Dinas head
📍 Newport Sands 📍Pwllgwaelod Beach 📍Dinas Head (including Pen Y Fan – highest point on the island 📍 Porthcawl
Improvised little adventure: solo road trip, car camping, hike and sandy toes, in just over 24h.
I left Swindon at 17:00 Saturday and back before 21:00 Sunday night. First time car camping was great – see pic of the car with fairy light and all!
I camped by the beach, and had breakfast with the sound of the dawn chorus and waves at sunrise, took a nap and headed to Dinas head.
Lovely little stroll on Dinas Head. Pity about the mist/cloud coverage on the coast. I’ll have to come back in good weather and look out for dolphins. Still, well worth the road trip and car camping. Another very fun little solo adventure.
I stopped in Porthcawl on the way home. I went for a dip in the sea and the weather was gorgeous.
Total idiot: I scraped my right knee in the sea on a rock!
Photo dump
Written in May 2024… Uploaded in March 2025.
I’ll post the rest of 2024 adventures soon and my plans for 2025.
Today, instead of resting as initially planned due to a poor weather forecast (,the first plan was hiking Yr Wyddfa at sunrise but then forecast for poor to moderate conditions meant I went for a “rest day”), I couldn’t resist the appeal of the local hills. I decided to go on a “leisurely stroll” up Moel Eilio (726m), Foel Gron (629m), Foel Goch(605m), and Moel Cynghorion (674m). Bagging two Welsh Marylins (Moel Eilio and Moel Cynghorion) felt like a satisfying achievement.
It was a simple, happy day, enjoying the beauty of nature in its purest form. Very few people about. I saw 4 or 5 people in the first 4h, and after 1h of not having seen anyone, I went for a nature wee behind a rock…what are the chances?!? Two German trail runners showed up! Luckily they didn’t see me as I was quick. Classic hiking bad timing though…
I had lunch at the top of Moel Cynghorion. It was so pleasant. Looking over the valley and yr Wyddfa.
Instead of pushing on towards Garnedd Ugain and Yr Wyddfa (which was very tempting while there as it looked fairy close and feasible), I opted to head back via Telegraph Valley.
Lots of ascents today again but I really enjoyed it. The “stroll” turned into a full-on hill hike.
Today wasn’t planned, but it turned out to be a day filled with unexpected delights, once more, in the stunning landscape of Eryri. After a week of adventurous stomping around, covering 87 miles or about 140 kilometers with plenty of uphill climbs, embracing the wilderness, camping under the stars for four nights (3 of them wild camping), encountering wildlife, and both swearing and laughing in the face of challenges. Time to go home tomorrow.
I woke up with the dawn chorus, feeling quite cold, and when looking outside, fog was covering all those beautiful views from last night. I warmed up with my breakfast (porridge and hot chocolate) and slowly started getting ready and packed for the day ahead. It was my last night out in the wild, and I had to pack this tent still damp from the mist. One thing that disgusted me was finding a slug on top of my sleeping bag! Yuck. I guess it got in the tent while I made and ate breakfast. It’s been a great experience but I don’t think I’m made for the fully outdoors life! I’m glad I did this for the last few days and got an experience unlike any others. But I’ll be glad not to have to carry my house with me everywhere after that 🐌.
When I woke up, I’d say the visibility was about 100m. By the time I set off, it had improved. Looking at my map, I estimated about 300m visibility. It improved as I walked along. I tried to keep a good pace to keep myself warm. I had all the layers and gloves, but it was a little windy and still cold.
I wore compression socks last night, and it may be the reason, but my right calf didn’t hurt as in previous days; I was especially conscious of it in the steep descent to Cwm Penmachno. It was pain-free.
The Eagles in Penmachno was closed and seemed to only open for evening meals, so I purchased some food and a big bottle of water at the Londis. I topped up my now empty Camelback and found a bin by the bus stop to throw the bottle away.
I found it hard to find directions out of Penmachno. Maybe tiredness or maybe I missed the signage? Then I climbed above Penmachno to the forest edge and carried on along the forest track for quite a while. I felt stronger, and my pace improved.
I saw some waterfalls, and then, as I planned to stop in the car park by the crossroads before the Conwy Falls for lunch, I realised there was a lovely café. It felt like luxury. The café owners/workers were so lovely. The all-day veggie breakfast was delicious, and there was a charging point where I topped up my power pack. I had two americanos, and the sun came out while I waited. The toilets were very clean and boasted a shower cubicle, which is worth knowing for wild campers, I guess? Not that I recommend wild camping here as it’s a busy car park!
At this point, I made the decision to end my Llwybr Llechi Eryri walk at Betws-y-Coed today. It’s been wonderful, but being tired, I don’t think I should push it further. I decided I would return by public transport to my booked accommodation from there. With that in mind, I decided to take my time and enjoy the Conwy Falls. It was £2, so be prepared to pay if you ever go there. I was just surprised, but I do understand contributions help keep the place safe and sustainable. The sun had come out to play, which made it a very lovely stroll. The falls were so impressive and powerful!
I was a little tired after the stroll around the woods. I took a break by the café and then set off for my last stretch from Conwy Falls to Betws-y-Coed. What a wonderful calming walk. It was sunny, but the tree-lined paths made it so pleasant. I arrived in Betws-y-Coed just before 16:30 and sat on a bench in the park, contemplating what I achieved in the last few days, before heading to the train/bus station.
I perhaps will come back one day and walk from Betws-y-Coed to Bethesda.
My advice
– Plan for all weathers! Overall I was lucky with the weather but it gets cold and windy in places. – Prepare to tackle hills. They are everywhere. But no rush, you can enjoy it and look around by slowing down. Also, the more you walk hills, the easier it gets. – Travel light: I had my struggles but anyone who’s more reasonable than me would not do it camping , by staying in accommodation and getting support/lifts + not carrying a heavy pack. Having a lighter bag would massively have improved my pace. – You need to like sheep a lot 🐑 😆 they will be everywhere! – Don’t be scared to walk through mud and waterlogged ground. Get proper waterproof boots (mine are expensive but didn’t let me down a single time). – Check your route before you go. Bring a map / make sure you have basic navigation skills in case you are in low visibility or in wilder areas with fewer signposts. – Have sufficient water and food. – Finally, enjoy! You don’t have to do the whole route. Do take detours to see sights you like. My favourite part hands up was Beddgelert to Nantmor. It’s short but challenging. I also loved the Bwlchgwernog area, just before Croesor.
For those of you who live in the area, go enjoy the beauty you have in your doorstep 💚
I hope you’ve enjoyed reading these walk reports. I hope it inspires some of you to spend time outdoors, be it for your own adventures, on this trail or elsewhere, or a day out in your local area. Feel free to ask me questions if I can help. I might not know the answer but I will try to help/ find out.
Being with nature is wonderful for the soul. Try it more often.
So what’s next?
I will be walking a marathon between Winchester and Salisbury on 2nd June in aid of Julia’s House Children’s hospice. If you can and would like to contribute, here is the fundraising page.
After that, I am tackling the Edale Skyline challenge with my friend Andrea mid-June (20 miles in 8h – not sure I can do that!). I’ll try to blog about this. Then my walking adventures will be on a break until late October while I train for my first-ever half marathon. (Scary)
Diolch Eryri am yr antur! Wela’i di wedyn!
And with this, I wish you all happy rambling.
You can’t add days to your life, but you can add life to your days.
