This row of three former farm-workers’ cottages was built towards the end of the 19th Century. These have been converted into a house with stables, tennis court and a swimming pool. A traditional single-storey cottage was built nearby.  

 
This walk is almost entirely on-road, which is great in the winter months when footpaths can be muddy. It’s also a great time to appreciate the beauty and structure of bare trees and some stunning views across rolling farmland. Another nice feature of this walk is the opportunity to get up close to an amazing network of old hedgerows. Teaming with life, these wildlife corridors allow multitudes of mammal, bird and insect species to move between isolated habitats. No-matter when you do this walk, there’s always plenty for the eagle-eyed to spot in our local hedgerows! 

1. Starting by the bus shelter in the middle of the village, cross the road and follow Hill Hayes Lane for just over half a mile. Look out for the Gauze Brook flowing under the road at the bottom of the hill. 

Next to the Brook at this point is the Hullavington “Stream Support” site. Wessex Water operates a bore hole here to maintain the Brook’s flow to the Bristol Avon River during periods of low rainfall. 

2. Continue uphill, past Hullavington Solar Farm. 

According to its operators, Hullavington Solar Farm has over 30,000 solar panels, able to power over 1,500 homes and thereby prevent the emission of up to 6,000 tonnes of CO2 annually. 

3. Continue along the lane as it curves to follow the main railway line between London and South Wales until you reach the Happylands Overbridge, a favoured haunt of train spotters. If hedgerows are wildlife corridors, then railways are wildlife super-highways, connecting fragmented wildlife habitats across the countryside. Look out for weasels here! 

4. Going on down the hill, pass Townleaze Farm on the left and follow the lane to the T-junction at its end, making sure to admire the magnificent old oaks lining the way.  

5. Here turn left for about 300 yards and at the next junction another left turn brings you into Pig Lane.  

Farleaze Farm was once the home of the late Colonel Whitbread, brewer and race-horse owner, who rode in the Grand National twice in the 1920s.  

6. Continue past cottages on your right. Pass the Farleaze Farm, cross the railway again before the lane becomes a track for about ¼ mile as Surrendell is approached and you notice a small pond on your left.  

7. Continue on the same line through Cow Leaze. As you arrive at Surrendell House the road begins again. You will soon descend to cross the Gauze Brook, which at this point is usually dry from April until October. 

8. Climb a short hill where the map shows the past existence of a quarry on your left. A quarter of a mile later you will take the left turn into Vlow Lane, which brings you gently downhill back into the village past Gardners Farm.