About this walk
Join in this hour-long, sociable ramble along part of the South Swindon Green Trail. We’ll be heading from the green at Oakfield (Marlowe Avenue) to walk along to Shaftesbury Lake where you can join in the pond dipping event happening there. Half an hour later we’ll continue on the Green Trail towards Coate Water. Our final destination is the Richard Jefferies Museum. The route is just over 2 miles and is mainly flat and paved, although the area around Shaftesbury Lake may be wet and muddy depending on the recent weather.
We will leave from the Oakfield green on Marlowe Avenue (we’ll be recognisable in high viz vests) at 11am. No need to book, just pop along.
Q+A
Q – Are dogs allowed?
A – Yes, well behaved dogs on leads are welcome. Obviously, you must clean up after your dog.
Q – Can we just walk some of the route?
A – Yes, if you want to bail out, we can advise on bus routes back to your starting point. For health and safety reasons, please let one of the high-viz helpers know you are leaving the group.
Q – Will I be left behind if I’m slow?
A – This is a ramble, so we plan to walk at a leisurely pace rather than a brisk one. We will have a tailwalker to make sure that nobody is left behind. There is plenty of time built into the walk to regroup. If you struggle, we can advise on where to bail out and catch a bus back to your start point.
Q – How long will it take?
A – We have allocated 90 minutes to reach Richard Jefferies which includes a 30 minute stop at Shaftesbury Lake.
Q – Are children allowed?
A – Yes, all are welcome but bear in mind how far younger children may be able to walk. The route is accessible for buggies and pushchairs.
Q – Will it go ahead if it’s raining?
A – We plan to go ahead whatever the weather, unless there is a red weather warning or any other reason that would make it dangerous to go ahead.
Q – What should I wear?
A – Wear whatever is comfortable to walk in. Take note of the weather and if it looks like rain, or has been raining in the days before the walk, then bring a waterproof and shoes that can cope with muddy conditions. Please consider sunscreen for sunny / breezy conditions.
Q – What is the terrain like?
A – The route is on mainly tarmac paths, and flat. There may be muddier conditions around the lake. We will be crossing roads but at designated crossing points.
Q – I have a question that’s not listed here – who can I contact?
A – Email swindontravelchoices@swindon.gov.uk and we’ll be able to help.
