Thursday, 18th June, 2026 – Start: 2:00 pm

Wildflowers on Rack Hill S.S.S.I.

Looking at and identifying wild flowers on the recently cleared Rack Hill

Wildflowers on Rack Hill S.S.S.I.

Cotswold Voluntary Wardens working on Rack Hill in March. Courtesy of Richard Wilson.

Distance

2 miles / 3.22 km

Duration

2.5 hours

Difficulty

May be steep slopes, moderate fitness

Mobility aid rating

Stile free

Shape

Linear

Route description

This walk follows the Bybrook valley along a public right of way before going off the path up the steep hillside.
The ground is very bumpy in places, especially where there are ant hills.

Public Toilets near start. No stiles.
There will be a stop on site for a break, you may wish to bring refreshments.

  • Please wear weather-appropriate footwear and clothing for walking
  • Please bring a drink, a snack, and sunscreen
  • The day before a walk, please check to ensure it is still running – and for any exceptional weather forecasts / warnings
  • All walk leaders are appropriately trained and have basic first-aid skills
  • Assistance dogs (on short leads) are welcome
  • Guided walks with the Wardens are free, but we welcome donations to help us sustain our work across the Cotswolds National Landscape.

Organised by: Cotswold Voluntary Wardens

Led by: Richard Wilson, Pauline Wilson

Start

Address

Meet at the Old Bridge, Castle Combe (as you leave the village going towards Ford)
View start on Google Maps

OS Grid Ref

ST 84101 76844

What3Words

completed.legroom.scam

Public toilets

Public toilets available in the centre of Castle Combe.

Refreshments

Pubs and tea shop in the centre of Castle Combe.

Travel Info

Parking available in the visitors car park, Castle Combe, just off the B4039. Walk down the hill and through the village following the road beside the stream to reach the Old Bridge and the starting point. (10-15 minutes). Occasional buses from Chippenham to Castle Combe stop in the centre of the village.

End

Travel Info

Return to the car pack either by walking through Long Dean and taking the lane towards Upper Castle Combe or by retracing your steps.