Avon Valley Path
A 34-mile long distance footpath that takes you from Salisbury, one of the most beautiful cathedral cities in England, to Christchurch Priory and the sea. With map, statistics, and GPX route file.
Statistics and Files
Grid Ref: SU 142 295
Distance: 34 miles (55 km)
Time: 13–16 hours
Duration: 2–5 days
Ordnance Survey Explorer Maps (1:25,000):
OL22 New Forest, Southampton, Ringwood, Ferndown, Lymington, Christchurch and Bournemouth
130 Salisbury, Stonehenge, Wilton and Market Lavington
Summary
The Avon Valley Path is a 34-mile long-distance walking route that takes you from Salisbury — one of the most beautiful cathedral cities in England — to Christchurch Priory and the sea. It was opened in 1992 and runs from Wiltshire due south through Hampshire to finish in Dorset. The path is named after the river whose course it follows. Please bear in mind that this route can become seriously waterlogged from December to May.
The path has been divided into five sections, each providing a really good day out. Choose between water meadows buzzing with wildlife or high chalk downland with exhilarating views, peaceful village pubs or a sophisticated cathedral city, or relaxing with a picnic while watching the grazing Forest ponies or beside a still trout lake. Keep an eye out too for the flash of blue as a kingfisher speeds by, or the slender body and brown fur of the elusive otter. (Source: Avon Valley Path)