Walks from The Watermill: enjoy the Great Outdoors this autumn!

18 October 2023

Nestled into the banks of the River Lambourn in the rural hamlet of Bagnor, the beautiful rural surroundings of The Watermill are part of what makes the theatre such a unique setting for audience members and staff alike. Lying within the North Wessex Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, it’s a lovely part of the country in which to head out on a walk, spot all sorts of wildlife and see the seasons change across the year.

This autumn we’re happy to share with you some of our favourite local walks – and don’t forget to join us at our Riverside Café Bar (open 10:30-3:30, Wed-Sat) to fuel your walk or to warm up afterwards! Dogs are welcome in the Bar and Lilypond areas. We’ve even got a special opening discount available, with a free tea or coffee for any purchase of £3.75 or more before 4 November!

If you’re in a rush…

Here’s a short 10-15 minute circuit which is a particular favourite of Rob (our Marketing Officer) and Bobby (our… Barketing Officer?):

For families and dog walkers

Add a slight twist to the classic Donnington Castle and Snelsmore Common circular walk (around 5.8km) by starting at The Watermill! This walk is around 5.8km and is great for families and dog walkers, with lots of varied landscapes to take in. It can get muddy in places, so may not be suitable for pushchairs.

Click here for the main route (in red) and then use the additional pink route highlighted on the map below to join the main red route from The Watermill.

The pink route can be followed by walking out of The Watermill’s main car park towards the main road through Bagnor, turning right at the bridge and then following this road. By the grass island outside the disused pub, take the gravel road to the left rather than the main road. This road will take you past houses and eventually to a path on the left hand side, just before another gated path on the left. Take the first path on the left (the one without a gate), and you’ll join the section of the main red route that heads towards Snelsmore Common.

Click here to find out more about Donnington Castle’s history.

A little further afield

Walks in and around the Lambourn Valley – click here

The Lambourn Valley Way, for something more long-distance – click here

Public walks around Highclere Castle – click here

Autumnal walks – click here

Dog walks – click here

Can you think of any other walks we should know about?

Then drop by our Café Bar to let us know, or send us an email via admin@watermill.org.uk