A leisurely walk (riverside) starting and finishing in Somerset, England, about 7.60km (4.72 mi) long with an estimated walking time of about 2:15h. It is suitable for families with children, but unsuitable for prams & pushchairs, wheelchairs.
Ascent
90m (295ft)
Descent
57m (187ft)
Max. Elevation
130m (426ft)
Altitude Gain & Loss
147m (482ft)
End
Bruton, Somerset, England
Car Free Walks TeamCreated by Timwoods on 16 Oct 2011
This simple walk connects two stations on the Heart of Wessex line, Castle Cary and Bruton. The route weaves in and out of the Brue Valley, giving you a mix of riverside walking and views from the tops. Finishing in Bruton, you should leave time to wander around the town before catching the train home, either to explore the hidden corners of this market town, or to enjoy a pint in one of its cosy pubs.
9 comments... join the discussion!
Chris
Nice walk, lots of variety. Walked through barley fields, under tree cover, through apple orchards and across train lines. Walked through fields with cows, horses and deer, generally very pleasant. The directions aren't fantastic and we got lost a few times so took about 2hrs 30mins. Last 3rd of the walk was very overgrown with nettles. Without google maps it would have been very difficult
Gary
The crossing is still there but does require close investigation. As a rough gauge, it is in a position on a straight line from the right angled field boundary to the north
emma
We missed the pedestrian crossing at point 2, completley could not see this. so ended up walking some of the walk on the road. was a nice walk other than this.
Douglas
To clarify point 2. Exit the station from the gate at the bottom of the footbridge (station side). Turn right directly after gate, walk along lane into field, cross field keeping to left of row of mature trees, second field Bridleway is more obvious, stay on Bridleway until you see railway pedestrian crossing, continue as point 3 instructions
Timwoods
OK,the footpath/bridleway is next to the footbridge over the railway. It's best not to detour via the road as it's very busy and on a bend. The bridleway then follows the railway for a distance.
Timwoods
Hi Martin, very sorry to hear that. When I did the walk, it was through a gate at the far end of the platform as I recall. But it's possible they have closed this... I will try and find out. Looking at the satellite image on Google maps, it looks like you can turn right along the A371 and then right again into Station Road and that will take you to the start point.
martin thomas
Oh dear! Spent ages trying to find the Bridleway to start this walk. Workers and local people were unable to help. Eventually had to give up. Parking and train fare wasted and more than that, disappointment. Clearer instruction needed please to help people with little local knowledge.
GaryShipp
Thanks Elaine for your comment. We have amended point 7 as you suggest. This should now be clearer for folk following the route.
Elaine
Please note that point 7 should be amended to read 'above Gants Mill' or 'behind Gants Mill' as that is where the bridle path actually is - as you can see by the contour lines on the map!