In 2013 I walked the path for the first time and kindled my enthusiasm for long distance walking. I've subsequently developed the habit of taking the day off work on my birthday and repeating the route, perhaps with some minor variations to add a little distance to the official 26 mile path.
Most recently, in May 2019, I walked the path for my 55th Birthday, starting at my home and joining the official route as it passes by St Michael's Church, Warfield.
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| Route taken - Click here for more details |
Fantastic walking conditions allowed good progress for the first 9.5 miles to the first stop - The Lookout cafe in Swinley Forest, providing a quick coffee and snack.
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| Swinley Forest, beautiful clear sky |
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| Wildmoor Heath |
Another 5.5 miles later and I'm arriving at The Bird in Hand pub, in Little Sandhurst - perfectly timed for lunch. From this point on the walk takes on a slightly alcoholic nature with a pub approximately every 5 miles. Well at least I'm burning the calories I tell myself 😏
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| Ham, eggs, chips, pint and a parsley sprig - perfect veg to calorie ratio |
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| Quick pint at the Crooked Billet, Gardeners Green |
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| It would be rude not to stop at Peacock Farm, Jennett's Park |
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| A final pit-stop at Shepherds House, Jealott's Hill |
It was a great day out and I ended up covering just over 33 miles, having made a couple of detours from the official route. I could have made another pub stop at the Plough in Warfield - but by that point it was just approaching seven o'clock and I wanted to get home for some evening birthday shenanigans.
I very much enjoy the Ramblers Route as a day walk. It explores the local countryside, which proves to be more varied than you might have anticipated, and will take you through some areas you probably didn't know existed.
I'd recommend this walk to anyone interested in long distance paths. If interested you can download a PDF pamphlet from Bracknell Forest Council here: https://www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/sites/default/files/documents/bracknell-forest-ramblers-route.pdf
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