The Ridgeway is one of England's most historic and rewarding long-distance trails. Whether you're walking the full 87 miles or exploring individual sections, a good guidebook makes all the difference. Below are three of the best guides available — each with a slightly different approach to suit different walkers. This page uses Amazon affiliate links; a small commission helps keep this site running at no extra cost to you.
The Ridgeway
Covers the 139 km route from Avebury to Ivinghoe Beacon across 12 stages, suitable for all abilities. Includes detours to historic sites and is designed to be completed in 6–9 days.
£13.99
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The Ridgeway (National Trails)
Described as “the only companion you need” for walkers of all experience levels. Details the 87-mile route across chalk downland, the Thames Valley, and the Chiltern Hills.
£11.34
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The Ridgeway (Trailblazer)
A bidirectional guide featuring 53 detailed maps at approximately 1:20,000 scale — the largest scale maps available for the Ridgeway. Ideal for those who want maximum navigational detail.
£12.99
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Flexible stage-by-stage walkers
The Cicerone guide by Steve Davison breaks the route into 12 clear stages with day-by-day planning information, making it the best choice for those walking the full trail over multiple days.
First-time walkers & history lovers
The National Trails guide by Anthony Burton is the official companion to the route. It excels at providing historical and cultural context alongside clear directions, making it ideal for those new to the Ridgeway.
Detail-oriented navigators
The Trailblazer guide by Nick Hill is for those who want the most detailed maps available. The 1:20,000 scale mapping is unmatched, and the guide can be followed in either direction — west-to-east or east-to-west.
