The best traffic-free bike rides around Siddown Hill

If you’re looking for a spot with a "dark history meets beautiful views" vibe, Combe Gibbet is exactly that. Perched high on Gallows Down (the name gives it away, doesn't it?) on the border of Berkshire and Hampshire, it’s one of the most atmospheric places in the North Wessex Downs. Here’s the story behind this lonely landmark: The "Double Trouble" Origin Story The gibbet isn't just a random decoration; it was built in 1676 for a very specific and grim reason. A local man named George Broomham and his mistress, Dorothy Newman, were convicted of murdering George's wife and son. As a warning to others, the authorities built a massive double-arm gibbet to hang them in chains right on the parish boundary. The one you see today is a replica (the 7th or 8th version!), but it stands in the exact same spot, looking quite eerie against the skyline. Why It’s Actually a Lovely Visit Despite the macabre history, people flock here for reasons that have nothing to do with 17th-century crime: The Views: Because it sits on the crest of the ridge (near Walbury Hill, the highest point in South East England), you can see for miles. On a clear day, you can look across the Kennet Valley all the way to the Cotswolds. The Paragliders: It’s a legendary spot for paragliding and hang-gliding. It’s incredibly relaxing to sit in the grass and watch them launch off the steep scarp and circle over the valley like giant birds. Ancient History: The gibbet is actually built on top of a Neolithic Long Barrow (a 5,000-year-old burial mound). So, it’s been a significant "high place" for humans for a very, very long time.

Not only are these old Cold War Cruise missile bunkers but Star Wars used them in the Force Awakens film as the rebel base

Any climb is generally worth it for the views at the top, this is in the top few for a far reaching vista.

Yellow Route around Greenham and Crookham Commons is straightforward, mostly flat, and accessible for various ages and fitness levels. Be aware of livestock along the way, best to keep pups on a lead.

Combe Gibbet is an impressive landmark at the top of Gallows Down, near Combe. It is actually located on the Test Way footpath on the Berkshire-Hampshire border and is a well-known local landmark. Historically, the gibbet was only used once back in 1676 to display the bodies of George Broomham and Dorothy Newman. Both were hanged for murdering Broomham’s wife and son, who discovered their extramarital affair, but alas, there was a witness, and things didn’t work out so well for them. Since that time, the gibbet has been replaced seven times, the last time back in 1992. Now it is just a tourist attraction and an area where you have stunning views out over the surrounding countryside. With a nearby car park, it is also a popular spot with hang gliding and paragliding enthusiasts.

The River Kennet is a tributary of the River Thames and has a good towpath system in the main, but it can be a tad narrow in places. It forms part of NCN Route 4 that travels from London to Fishguard. A considerable section of this route is on the Kennet & Avon Cycle Route using the canal towpath. Here the village of Woolhampton sits across the swing bridge, there is a lock, a nearby pub, and The Rowbarge Inn, which backs onto the canal.

This is a fantastic country pub located on the banks of the River Kennet near Woolhampton. The pub has existed since 1850, and serves up a range of delicious dishes as well as cask ales. A great place to stop on a long walk.

Greenham Common Control Tower is a museum and visitor centre. The control tower has major historical significance, playing an important role in both the Cold War and WW2 era. Visitors can explore the rich history of this building whilst taking in panoramic views at the observation desk. There is a café on site too where you can grab a hot drink or bite to eat.