Stretching 85 miles from The Sanctuary at East Kennett in Wiltshire to Ivinghoe Beacon in Buckinghamshire, The Ridgeway has been described as "The oldest road in Britain"; some call it the oldest road in the world. What can't be disputed is the fact that The Ridgeway is a truly ancient trackway. In use for 5,000 years or so, it has provided a vital route for travellers, farmers and anyone wanting access through the surrounding countryside.

From the very start are tangible signs of Britain's past history: The Sanctuary at East Kennett, which originally consisted of several stone and wooden circles (the circles have long since gone and their respective positions marked by concrete posts); Silbury Hill - the largest prehistoric man-made structure in Europe; West Kennett Long Barrow - the longest and one of the best examples in the country; and of course the Avebury stone circle - the largest in Britain.

Several miles further on are yet more ancient remains: Barbury Castle and Liddington Castle, both iron age hill forts; Wayland's Smithy long barrow; and Uffington White Horse.

All along The Ridgeway you will encounter birds and wildlife of some kind, including farmland specialities such as Yellowhammer, Corn Bunting or passage migrants such as Wheatear and Whinchat. The area around Barbury Castle has produced Short-eared Owls, Quail and Raven. Liddington Hill is well known for Ring Ouzel and also hosts occasional Peregrine and Red Kite.

Around Bishopstone sightings include Barn Owl, Little Owl, Whitethroat, Golden Plover and Blackcap. Roe Deer are a regular feature at any time as well.

A lot of the sections along the route are easily negotiable. There are, however, plenty of rutted and muddy parts, especially in wintertime, so good walking boots are a sound choice.