The Ridgeway 40
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The Ridgeway 40 Walk
The Ridgeway 40 is a linear long distance challenge covering 40 miles from Avebury Sports and Social Club to Morrell Room, Church Lane, Streatley. The route follows the Herepath and then the ancient Ridgeway track across undulating chalk downlands of Wiltshire, Oxfordshire and Berkshire.
The next scheduled event is Saturday 9 May 2026. Entries open 26 September 2025 and close 4 May 2026. The event has a participant limit of 250 and a minimum age of 14 on the event date. Entry fees are shown for LDWA members and non members; a coach to the start is available for a separate fee. No entries are accepted on the day.
Checkpoints are used to monitor progress and provide sustenance, typically water, squash and food, and first aid supplies. Maps or route descriptions are provided so walkers can follow the designated line. Entrants who complete the walk within the event time limits receive an emailed certificate and a cloth badge for completions; most checkpoints supply snacks and drinks and there are refreshments at the finish. Participants are advised to plan transport for retirees at checkpoints as organisers do not provide onward transport from checkpoints.
The Ridgeway 40 has roots in events organised by the Youth Hostels Association and was first held in 1962. The route passes many historic sites, including tumuli, Iron Age hill forts such as Barbury Castle and Liddington, the Neolithic tomb Wayland Smithy, Uffington Castle and the White Horse hill figure. The age of the Ridgeway is debated, with some theories suggesting very ancient origins. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
