The best gravel rides around Stratford Toney

The views from Old Sarum are highly praised and are one of the main reasons visitors come to the site. Because the castle is situated on a commanding hilltop, it offers sweeping and far-reaching views across the Wiltshire countryside. Wiltshire Countryside: You get unrivalled, expansive views over the surrounding Wiltshire plains and farmland. The ancient earthworks of the hillfort provide a perfect vantage point to take in the landscape. Modern Salisbury: From the inner castle ramparts, you can clearly see the city of Salisbury (sometimes called "New Sarum"), including the tall spire of Salisbury Cathedral in the distance. This visual link connects the historic, lost city on the hill with the modern city that grew from it. The Plains and Sky: The high, open position of Old Sarum makes it a great spot for enjoying the sky and weather, with many visitors noting the dramatic atmosphere or simply the pleasure of the open air. The ramparts, in particular, are described as the perfect place to explore on foot and take in these views. As one visitor noted, "You can see miles from the inner castle ramparts." Old Sarum itself is a historical marvel, layered with over 5,000 years of history, including an Iron Age hillfort, a Roman settlement, and the site of William the Conqueror's motte-and-bailey castle and the original Salisbury Cathedral. The views serve as a stunning backdrop to this significant historic site.

The "Fordingbridge Bridge," known as the Great Bridge, is a historic seven-arched medieval stone bridge in the town of Fordingbridge, Hampshire, England, over the River Avon. While the current structure dates from various periods, including significant 19th-century widening, the original medieval bridge was built before 1252. It remains a prominent landmark, with views of the bridge best enjoyed from the nearby park or The George pub.  

"Discover the story of the original Salisbury and take the family for an action-packed day out at Old Sarum. Stand in the footprint of Salisbury's first cathedral, conquer the ruins of the royal castle, and discover the awe-inspiring landscape where it all began. One of the South’s most significant historic sites – William the Conqueror once hosted a great gathering at Old Sarum. Soak up the atmosphere as you explore a city lost to time. There’s over 2,000 years of history to discover, as well as unrivalled views across the Wiltshire countryside. (Text from https://www.visitwiltshire.co.uk/salisbury/things-to-do/old-sarum-p133943 )

Take the small path just over the entrance road to Stonehenge, on the right This leads you right oast the stones and some lovely picture opportunities. It then goes over grass to a double gate beside the A303. You need to cross over the A303 to be able to ride safely up the hill on the pathway and then cross back over at the top to rejoin the gravel. Or simply cycle uo the grass verge as I did but this is a lot more sketchy. A fantastic ride and you are only 10 mins from the end.

It’s a great wide path with forest views.

Riverside pub serving food and real ales

A television series that I wholeheartedly recommend introduces culture-loving viewers to remarkable testimonies to human activity from many countries around the world. What they all have in common is that they have been granted "World Heritage" status by UNESCO. One of the episodes documents the ancient and still mysterious stone circle of Stonehenge. The accompanying documentary states: "The Salisbury Plateau in southern England is a harsh and uninviting area, often subject to cold and biting winds. About 5,000 years ago, during the Neolithic period, people lived here, about whom we know very little. But what they and subsequent generations left behind is impressive beyond measure: the stone circles and burial mounds of the Megalithic culture." This film (in German) can be found in the ARD media library under the following link => https://www.ardmediathek.de/video/schaetze-der-welt/stonehenge-grossbritannien-folge-16/swr/Y3JpZDovL3N3ci5kZS83MjQ1ODkw

gravel all the way