Wiltshire Cycleway - Section 1 -Bradford on Avon to Dilton Marsh

This is the 1st section of the Wilshire Cycleway, which has been written to provide great detail on this circular route. The other 15 sections are on RidewithGPS, but for an overview please visit bikexplore.co.uk/Articles-of-Interest/Wiltshire-Cycleway

You start by the Kennet and Avon on the edge of the town to climb briefly towards Westwood. Westwood is a pretty village and contains Westwood Manor which is managed by the National Trust and opens in the summer. Onto a narrow lane which descends steeply towards an A Road, but take the descent slowly as just after the lane descends a World War 2 bunker can be visited on the left. With a narrow entrance it gave views across the valley. Take care at the bottom of the hill as the next section is a little busier heading along the A366. However you will pass a castle of the right. Well I say castle, it is in fact afortified residence from the 14th century and it is possible to cycle through it, but you need to pay an admission to view the chapel. You are into open countryside now with a rolling lane that takes you to the outskirts of Rode, however take a moment to have a look at the pretty village of Tellisford and its church. Reaching Rode, there is a good pub at the Mill before you enter the village. The Wiltshire Cycleway passes through but it is worth heading left opposite the pub to explore the centre and visit the shop Leaving Rode you'll head left towards the crossing of the A361. Please take care here, it's a busy road, but there are good lines of sight. The Cycleway now follows lanes as it winds its way past small farms, many of which are grazing for horses. At Rudge there is an excellent pub before more flat lanes take you to Brokerswood. As you turn left don't miss the green galvanised church which still holds services. The final section takes you to Dilton Marsh where this section finishes at the mini roundabout to the east of the village. There is even a railway station should you wish to use the train for your journey home.