Avoncliff, Iford and Freshford
A leisurely walk (riverside) in Wiltshire, UK, about 4.40km (2.73 mi) long with an estimated walking time of about 1:15h. It is unsuitable for families with children, prams & pushchairs, wheelchairs.
Elevation Profile
Ascent
63m (206ft)
Descent
5m (16ft)
Max. Elevation
100m (328ft)
Altitude Gain & Loss
68m (222ft)
Start & End
Avoncliff, Bradford on Avon, Wiltshire, England
Distance
4.40km
(2.73mi)
(2.73mi)
Duration
~1:15h
Difficulty
Leisurely
This walk follows two rivers - the Avon and the Frome. Throw in the Kennet and Avon canal and there's more than enough for anyone who enjoys nothing better than the peace and quiet of a riverside stroll.
Walk Functions
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Nearby Walks
Kennet and Avon exploration
A moderate, circular walk (canal) starting in Wiltshire, England, about 11.60km (7.21 mi) long, duration: ~3:30h.A canalside amble
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A leisurely, circular walk (countryside) starting in Wiltshire, England, about 5.40km (3.36 mi) long, duration: ~1:30h.Walk Map
- $walk->POI array(0)
Waypoints
OS Grid ST803600
Avoncliff station is on the line between Bradford-on-Avon and Bath. It's a request stop, so make sure you tell the conductor! From the station, cross over the aqueduct into the village.
OS Grid ST791599
From Avoncliff, take the footpath heading under the aqueduct, and follow the river downstream. Keep on the path next to the river - about halfway along you will cross from Wiltshire into Somerset! Carry on to Freshford village, stopping at the Inn at Freshford if you have worked up a thirst! From Freshford, cross the river at the road bridge to reach Sherpstone and then follow the path on the southern bank of the river.
About 1.18 km (~0.73 miles) from 
OS Grid ST785595
First take a bridleway, then the riverside path beneath Friary Wood.
About 0.75 km (~0.47 miles) from 
OS Grid ST800589
As you follow the path on the south side of the River Frome, keep an eye out for kingfishers darting low over the water. The path takes you to the hamlet of Iford. Iford Manor, an 18th century house, is worth a look.
About 1.61 km (~1 miles) from 
Upper WestwoodOS Grid ST804595
At Iford, leave the river and head up through the village of Upper Westwood. It's then a short walk back to Avoncliff. If you have time whilst you wait for the train, visit the 16th Century Cross Guns Inn, or the Madhatter tea room if you prefer.
About 0.69 km (~0.43 miles) from 
8 comments... join the discussion!
Patricia
A beautiful walk from Freshford to Avoncliff .in the winter months though the footpath becomes almost impossible from the Freshford end once one has left the new path I believe that the responsibility from there is with Wiltshire Council .
patrikG
It is indeed and has been changed.
Jon Ingleson
Not Sherpstone. It even says it on the map
Timwoods
Hi Dawn, thanks for the update! Do let us know when it opens again. Tim
Dawn Coe
The path between Avoncliff and Freshford is currently closed half way along. The footpath has been closed by the council so they can lay a new footpath! Ironic. There is no warning at the beginning of the path, no idea how long it is closed for so check before you leave. Couldn't find a detour.
Timwoods
Parking? On a car-free walk? The chance to enjoy a pint or three in the Inn at Freshford is one of many good reasons to take the train for this walk!
Roger Hayward
Also worth parking in the Freshford Inn (they do a lovely pint and great food at the end) and pick up this walk. At Iford I turn left over the bridge and follow the road until it picks up the path back into Freshford. Makes a nice circular walk with minimal roads, about 1hr 30mins.
roger griffiths
Truly wonderful walk. England at its very best. Cream tea at Iford Manor or good beers at the Inn, Freshford or Cross Guns at Avoncliff- the choice is yours. World Class!