Harford Bridge, Naunton - Miles without Stiles

This short circular walk takes in the deserted medieval village of Lower Harford, the area around Naunton Village and a small section of the Windrush Way. It is ideal for an evening stroll or picnic walk.

Distance

3 miles / 4.83 km

Duration

1.25 hours

Difficulty

Unsurfaced paths, basic fitness

Mobility aid rating

Stile free

Shape

Circular

Start

Address


View start on Google Maps

OS Grid Ref

SP129229

What3Words

unlimited.hoofs.explain

Travel Info

Park 1 mile (1.6km) south-east of Naunton, on roadside verge near Harford Bridge, north side of B4068 Andoversford/Stow road.

Navigation

Cross the B4068 to follow the lane to Lower Harford Farm. Near the farm entrance, cross the footbridge 1 over the River Windrush.

The humps and hollows in the field south of the river, indicate the site of the deserted medieval village of Lower Harford.

Leaving the farm, follow the lane a short distance uphill to a signpost on the right hand side marked ‘Windrush Way’ 2.

Turn right here, passing through the gate, turning left to follow the Windrush Way along the valley floor for approx 1/2 mile (1 km) passing through a field gate until you reach a gate. Pass through the gate and turn right to cross a stone bridge over the stream, following the path uphill to reach a field gate at the edge of the golf course. The golf course is now part of Ben Pauling Racing so be aware of race horses ridden here.

3 Follow the bridleway past the stables on the right recrossing the B4068 to a farm gate. Pause for a panoramic view of the dovecote, village and church. 4 Follow the track downhill pausing for views, bear left at a fork in the path to a field gate signposted Wardens Way to ‘Dale End Lane’. Pass along the lane, then turn right to the green and its shading beech trees.

Behind the green, ‘Windrush View’ leads to the wool church of St Andrew. Basically perpendicular, it has been much modified over the centuries, it has a wineglass pulpit and two sundials.

Beyond the green, cross the Vicar’s Bridge 5 over the Windrush, passing the old cider mill at its right hand side. Bear right at the junction, then uphill and follow the road. Opposite the village hall, a lane labelled ‘No Through Road’ leads past the manor house to the river and the medieval dovecote. A short diversion to this offers an idyllic picnic spot.

Continue along the main street to the Black Horse Inn. Some 40 metres beyond the inn is a cream coloured building, Cromwell House built circa 1600.

Proceed along the lane 6 to reach the start point at Harford Bridge.