3.1 of 5 (74 votes)
8

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
Car Free Walks TeamCreated by Timwoods on 25 Feb 2008
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

Share

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

★★★★★ ★★★★★
A moderate, linear walk (canal) starting in Wiltshire, England, about 11.10km (6.90 mi) long, duration: ~3:15h.

Steeple Ashton stroll

★★★★★ ★★★★★
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)
Called from .../walk.php:385

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
OS 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
15 Aug 2017
Footpath Too Muddy In Winter

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 .

10 Jul 2017
Sharpstone

It is indeed and has been changed.


Jon Ingleson
09 Jul 2017
It's Sharpstone...

Not Sherpstone. It even says it on the map

04 Aug 2016
Path Closed

Hi Dawn, thanks for the update! Do let us know when it opens again. Tim


Dawn Coe
03 Aug 2016
Path Closed

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.

17 Mar 2014
Freshford

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
15 Mar 2014
Freshford

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
27 May 2012
Iford To Avoncliff Walk

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!

What do you think?

Comment Headline
Comment
Your Name
Your Email
What does the image (right) show?
(Starts with "G" and ends with "aiters")
Please note: Car Free Walks are not responsible for the accuracy of public transport information. close 
Loading...