National Trails in West Berkshire

National Trails are a collection of long distance paths which provide outstanding walking routes, and many horse-riding and cycling opportunities, through the finest landscapes of England and Wales.

Marked with an acorn symbol, there are 13 routes in total in England and along the border with Wales, forming a path network of over 3,500 kilometers.

Two National Trails pass through West Berkshire - The Ridgeway and the Thames Path.
 

Restricted Use on The Ridgeway National Trail

The western third of The Ridgeway, from East Hendred Down at the Oxfordshire border, eastwards to Compton Down, has Restricted Byway status. This means that the pubic does not have the right to take motor vehicles along it at any time.

A seasonal permanent Traffic Regulation Order means that The Ridgeway is closed to public motor vehicle use between 1 October and 30 April each year. This is in order to protect the surface of this ancient thoroughfare.

The eastern third, known and 'Rectory Road' in Streatley is an unclassified road open to motor vehicles throughout the year.

Crossing Points

There are points where it is still possible for the public to cross The Ridgeway with motor vehicles. These are at the following grid references:

• SU 507821
• SU 509819
• SU 534819
• SU 540815

You can see these marked with purple circles  on this map [1020KB] .