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The Pewsey King Alfred Trail is a series of four self guided walks to help you enjoy the magnificent Pewsey Vale. The trail has been named in honour of the legendary King Alfred who owned much of the land within the Vale. Centred on the village of Pewsey, with the Kennet and Avon Canal forming the northern boundary the Trail takes you on a route that uses footpaths, towpaths, bridleways, nature reserves and quiet roads offering views of some of Wiltshire’s most beautiful landscapes and pretty villages.

Much of the land in the Pewsey Area was owned by King Alfred who defeated the Danes in 878AD. Links with the King remain to this day with a statue in the village centre (erected in 1913) as well as an annual feast. This feast is now celebrated during Pewsey Carnival fortnight and legend has it that King Alfred granted the rights to the feast in return for looking after his wife whilst he was at war.This trail website is inspired by the wish by the community of Pewsey to share the Vale with more people.

There is a recognition though that some issues of muddy paths and access points need addressing. The Pewsey Area Community Trust has therefore taken up this challenge and has already obtained grants from the South West Regional Development Agency and The North Wessex Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The Trail has been designed so that it can be joined at any convenient point and is comfortable walking.

 

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