Sparsholt Firs to Streatley

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Section Overview

This is one of the classic stretches of the Ridgeway, traversing the open ridges of the Berkshire Downs before descending into the Thames Valley. The route combines sweeping panoramic views, ancient earthworks, and remote farmland with the satisfying conclusion of reaching the bustling riverside village of Streatley-on-Thames, twinned with Goring across the bridge.

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Leaving Sparsholt Firs

From Sparsholt Firs, the Ridgeway continues northeast across the chalk uplands. The early part of the walk is quiet and relatively flat, skirting woodland and farmland, with views gradually opening out as you climb onto the downs. This is a place to enjoy the wide horizons, with big skies above and long-distance views stretching in every direction.

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Uffington White Horse and Dragon Hill

One of the highlights of the entire Ridgeway comes a few miles into this section: the Uffington White Horse. Carved into the chalk hillside more than 3,000 years ago, this stylised prehistoric figure is Britain’s oldest chalk hill figure and an icon of the landscape. From here, you can also explore Dragon Hill, a flat-topped mound associated with legends of St George, and Uffington Castle, an Iron Age hillfort commanding spectacular views across the Vale of the White Horse. Together, these landmarks make this one of the most atmospheric and historically important points on the Ridgeway trail.

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The Berkshire Downs

Beyond Uffington, the trail continues along the Berkshire Downs, a long chalk ridge with open grassland, arable fields, and scattered copses. The walking is relatively straightforward here, with a mixture of grassy paths and farm tracks. It feels remote and spacious, with few settlements visible from the path. On clear days, the views south toward the Thames Valley and north across Oxfordshire are spectacular.

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Descending to Streatley

The final part of the walk gradually descends from the Downs into the valley of the River Thames. The Ridgeway threads its way toward Streatley-on-Thames, a lively riverside village with pubs, cafés, and accommodation. Across the bridge lies Goring, equally welcoming and a convenient base for walkers. Reaching the river marks a milestone on the trail, as the Ridgeway meets the Thames Path National Trail. This is a fitting end to a long and rewarding day’s walk.

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