Popping my Avebury Cherry!!

Avebury 222

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Vicster Mar 30, 2008 15:18:30

It had to happen, didn't it? About time too!

So, on the eve of my 40th birthday, I have finally got my arse into gear and we are heading off to Avebury on Thurs for a long weekend.

I was always faintly embarrassed by the fact I have never visited Avebury or Stonehenge but used the quite plausible excuse that it was easier to head to Scotland or Ireland from my neck o' the woods (we don't like going South, too much traffic on the M6...!) and that I have a wealth of prehistoric wonders on my doorstep (Cumbria)

However, the time has come to remedy this lapse and I spent last night pouring over maps n books and getting hysterical at the myriad of sites within a 5 mile radius of East Kennet, where we will be based.

So, I call upon you, my faithful TMAers, to point me in the right direction. We will have 3 days to see as much as possible and I wonder if anyone has a must-do, can't-miss, catch-all itinerary or should we just bumble along, map in hand and see what we come across?

Also, any tips on good places to eat, drink and make merry would be appreciated....afterall, Mark has to have something to look forward to, whilst tramping around after me all day!!

Cheers folks - get advising!!!

Vxxx

ps - this was my 2nd attempt - first post just disappeared so apologies if they both materialise.....

goffik Mar 30, 2008 18:09:04

Replying to Vicster

Congratulations!

On both your 40th birthday AND finally getting down to Avebury! Prepare to be utterly blown away with it all..! :)

I might leave it to others to suggest any must-sees (apart from the obvious Silbury Hill, West Kennett Long Barrow, etcetcetc...) but wonder if you fancy actually getting round to meeting up?

It's only an hour or so from our gaff, and it'd be great to meet you! Mrs G and Mini G don't need much encouragement for a visit either. :)

I could show you The Polisher and holed stone up on Fyfield Down if nobody beats us to it... ;)

Waddya reckon then?

G x

Hob Mar 30, 2008 18:39:46

Replying to Vicster

Howdo V,

I know there are many more knowledgeable than I who will give info on sites, but I thought I'd chuck in a slightly obvious suggestion about timing. If you're OK about the hike from East kennet to Avebury, I'd think about leaving the car at base camp, and hang about in the village till after the carpark closes. It's much nicer when it's quiet and takes on a different character after dark.

And take Goff up on the offer of a Fyfield tour, it's a lovely place, and as close to that Cumbrian wildness as you're likely to get.

Have vast amounts of fun :)

Jane Mar 30, 2008 18:55:13

Replying to Vicster

Vicster wrote:

So, I call upon you, my faithful TMAers, to point me in the right direction.

Devil's Den. You'll almost certainly have it all to yourself and it'll blow your mind. Just 2 miles from Avebury. Park on the A4 at Clatford Bottom and walk north up the farm track for half a mile. Bliss!!

scubi63 Mar 30, 2008 19:56:05

Replying to Vicster

Hi V,

A personal favourite of mine is Adam's Grave at SU113634. You can park in the carpark off the ridgeway just a short distance away.
It is a harty climb to the top of this most prominant of barrows. Once at the top it feels as if the wind can almost lift you off the ground and the views can be awe inspiring.

From the carpark it isn't a huge walk to 'Little Avebury' and the Horse head pillar on Cow Down at SU118657. This is all set in a lovely valley and is very tranquil. Beware it can be very very muddy along the track where the Ridgeway meets Wansdyke but most of it can be circumnavigated along a track that runs parallel with it.

Have a great time and happy 40th.

:o)

Scubi

VenerableBottyBurp Mar 30, 2008 20:56:06

Replying to Vicster

It is as well to remind folk - don't leave valuables in your car at these locations!!!

VBB

Snap Apr 5, 2008 11:18:34

Replying to Vicster

I have only been once but was given this advice by a guy in a pub. Don't park in the official car park drive towards West Kennett the road runs alongside Kennet Ave.Theres a smalll parking spot right where the main stones of Kennett start so you can follow the way the proceessions used to go. I think it works because it gives you the atmosphere plus you are starting where it's quiet!!! espcialy if you get there early. Enjoy!!! and check the holes in the Stones en route I found something very special?
Snap