The best walks and hikes around East Ilsley

Rivers and canals crisscross the country, as they were – especially in the early days of industrialisation – a very essential part of the transport infrastructure. After all, the factories needed the delivery of raw materials in previously unknown quantities, and the finished goods then had to find their way to the traders. Many of the canals originate from this era. Later, the railways and, later still, trucks took over the task of transporting goods. However, when building the artificial waterways and making the rivers navigable, it had to be taken into account that differences in altitude always had to be overcome, and so locks are often lined up along the canals and rivers – at more or less large intervals, depending on the local situation. Shipping could only be made possible with their help.

sharp flints on the downhill section which can puncture your tyres

Scutchamer Knob is an ancient Iron Age burial mound and historic landmark on the Ridgeway. Along my King Alfred’s Way bikepacking route, it was a memorable spot to pause before the final stretch to Reading. 📜 Once a Saxon meeting place, this hilltop offers panoramic views of the surrounding Berkshire downs—a perfect blend of history and landscape. 🚴‍♂️ A short climb rewards you with quiet reflection and wide-open skies.

A perfect pause near the end of my King Alfred’s Way ride to Reading, this spot offers sweeping Berkshire views and a peek into England’s deep past. The Ridgeway here follows ancient trade routes, with nearby Iron Age earthworks and medieval terraces. Local legends whisper of ghostly travelers and strange lights in nearby woods — adding a bit of mystery to the stunning scenery. 🚴‍♂️ Easy access for cyclists. Take a moment to soak in the views and the stories before your final miles.

Although most riders finish King Alfred’s Way in Winchester, I wrapped up my journey in Reading—making this stunning Ridgeway section into Streatley one of my final and most memorable stretches. The open chalk track offers incredible views over the Thames Valley, followed by a flowing descent into Streatley & Goring—an ideal place to pause, refuel, and take in the last big skies before rolling to the end. 🚴‍♂️ Fast but rideable chalk descent (even in damp conditions), watch for walkers and ruts. 📍 Café and rest stop options in Streatley/Goring.

This is a very picturesque section of The Ridgeway thought to be one of Britain's oldest roads! You'll be traversing along the exact route that has been used since prehistoric times by travellers, herdsmen and soldiers - a real fascinating piece of history!

Welcome to the Ridegway, thought to be one of Britain's oldest roads! You'll be traversing along the exact route that has been used since prehistoric times by travellers, herdsmen and soldiers - a real fascinating piece of history!

Lowbury Hill is an elevated hilltop located in south Oxfordshire. The area is absolutely steeped in history, being the location of a prehistoric Ridgeway, a Roman Temple, a Saxon Battle, 'Lowbury Man' and a medieval rabbit warren! The hill is the highest in the Berkshire Downs, providing excellent panoramic views across seven counties.