Getting to know your Weeds 3
2023-04-11 19:00 - 20:30 UTC | The Crown Inn, 60 Wilcot Road, Pewsey, Wiltshire, SN9 5EL, United Kingdom
Getting to know your Weeds 3
Another Slideshow by Michael Atkinson-Willes from Wiltshire Wandering
Michael will talk about ten of the plants that were found in the Scotchell Nature reserve in Pewsey, in October 2022.
Michael will cover edibility, past and present uses, historical references and folk law.
All are welcome, so please bring a friend or two.
RSVP to reserve a prime seat.

A botanical exploration, lunch, and afternoon walk
2023-04-15 09:30 - 18:00 | Pewsey Railway Station (PEW), North Street, Pewsey, Wiltshire, SN9 5ER, United Kingdom
A botanical exploration, lunch, and afternoon walk
An entirely guide-led, Walking – Talking Guided Tour.
A high-quality day out. A fully guided morning talk, followed by luncheon and afternoon walk in the beautiful vale of Pewsey.
Morning – Exploration of the multitude of plants bursting into life. The tour is similar to Wandering by Water by Walking Wiltshire and is led by Walking Wiltshire.
Afternoon – Exploration of the local countryside subjects include the importance of transport and the canal, villages, geology, history, the local area and a miscellany of facts led by Roaming the Paths.
Start
Starts at 9.35, muster and meet at Pewsey railway station. Timed to meet the first train from London Paddington (pending industrial action). There will be a briefing on the day, and an equipment check (please remember to bring suitable attire for the weather, snacks and a drink).
Morning Tour
Distance – 2.3 Miles. Terrain – gentle gradients, some steps, boardwalks, and possible mud.
From there Mike from Walking Wiltshire will take you on a guided tour looking at the wonder of plants. Setting off immediately into the countryside and onward to Jones’s Mill Nature Reserve, the journey of discovery starts. The morning is spent exploring the plants and their uses. Medicinal, culinary and otherwise. Their history, folk law and legends. Their environment, and numerous other aspects of the plants seen on the day.
A thoroughly enjoyable opportunity to discover the power of some of our most common, and often unseen, companions.
Lunch
Time to relax and enjoy a lunch.
On this tour this will be Freshly made soup and sandwiches with plenty of hot drinks.
All reasonable dietary requirements will be catered for.
Introduction to the afternoon’s proceedings By Alan from Roaming the Paths. Starting with a brief after-dinner talk we will explore the geology of the Vale of Pewsey, and look at how transport has had such an effect on the area.
Afternoon Tour
Distance – 6 Miles. Terrain – gentle gradients, some steps, Style to cross, Railway crossing and some uneven surfaces.
Old and new villages
Setting off Westwards, Along the Kennet and Avon Canal, and into the Vale of Pewsey. Chance to see what plants you might have seen in the morning, and how they are growing in various different locations.
We will explore the fascinating history of Wilcot, and how villages were destroyed, and fancy canal bridges built, just to improve a view. Ancient systems of agriculture and the Lord (or Lady) of the manor were the local law. After revisiting the canal again to see the splendour of Ladies Bridge and have a chance for a rest, and maybe a photo opportunity.
History – Wiltshire and Wessex
From here we start the journey back via Swanborough Tump. and hear of the Viking invasion, King Alfred the Great and the formation of what would become England. The final leg a stroll through quiet hamlets and back lanes.
The environment
At intervals along the walk will the environment and ecosystems will be mentioned. The countryside is varied, as are the farms and farming techniques employed. Because of this we will only touch on these subjects. For more in-depth tours relating to the environment, ecology or farming, see the Meet the…… tours.
Tea
We return to Pewsey and finish with a well-deserved sit-down, with a cuppa and a cake – or perhaps a cream tea. Stronger options are available behind the bar with an opportunity to sample many local ales, some produced onsite.
Conclusion
Those arriving by train will be guided towards the station to greet the penultimate train of the day towards the Capital. A later train is an option, and some may choose to linger.

Getting to know your Spring Weeds
2023-04-26 18:30 - 20:00 | The Seven Stars Inn – Bottlesford, Gores Lane, Bottlesford, Wiltshire, SN9 6LW, United Kingdom
Reserve your place now for another exploration and discovery session by Michael Atkinson-Willes from Wiltshire Wandering
Investigate and explore the fantastic plants springing forth in bounteous abundance, in this evening botanical bonanza.
Michael will guide you about a meadow bursting forth with life.
Michael will cover edibility, past and present uses, historical references and folk law.
All are welcome, so please bring a friend or two.
There is a £25.00 CASH charge for this event, payable on arrival or £26.00 if booked online (£25.00 plus £1.00 booking fee*).
The previous events have been popular, so see below to buy a ticket or RSVP now to reserve a prime place at this unique, informative, educational and entertaining event.
The venue
The Seven Stars opens at 5PM so plenty of time for some refreshments before the event.
Please note – If you want to dine, please contact the venue, the Seven Stars Bottlesford directly to reserve a table.
What to wear
Please wear appropriate clothing for the weather and event. The tour is not a great distance, nor is the terrain challenging. However, it is the countryside, so sensible footwear is advisable. If the weather is wet coats, etc. advisable.

*Booking fee to cover online payment charges, or £25.00 cash on the day

Explore West of Pewsey
2023-06-24 09:30 - 12:30 | Pewsey Railway Station (PEW), North Street, Pewsey, Wiltshire, SN9 5ER, United Kingdom
A morning walk in Pewsey Vale with items of interest
An entirely guide-led, Walking – Talking Guided Tour.
A high-quality morning out. A fully guided morning walk with talk, followed by luncheon (Optional) in the beautiful vale of Pewsey.
Morning – Exploration of the local countryside subjects include farming, Wildlife, the importance of transport and the canal, villages, geology, history, the local area and a miscellany of facts led by Roaming the Paths.
Start
Starts at 9.30, meet at Pewsey railway station. Timed to meet the first train from London Paddington (pending industrial action). There will be a briefing on the day and an equipment check (please remember to bring suitable attire for the weather, snacks and a drink. Especially remember the drink).
Morning Tour
Distance – 6 Miles. Terrain – gentle gradients, some steps, Style to cross, Railway crossing and some uneven surfaces.
N.B. This route is fully reversible, so might be done in a different order.
Old and new villages
Setting off Westwards, Along the Kennet and Avon Canal, and into the Vale of Pewsey. Chance to see what plants you might have seen in the morning, and how they are growing in various different locations.
We will explore the fascinating history of Wilcot, and how villages were destroyed, and fancy canal bridges built, just to improve a view. Ancient systems of agriculture and the Lord (or Lady) of the manor were the local law. After revisiting the canal again to see the splendour of Ladies Bridge and have a chance for a rest, and maybe a photo opportunity.
History – Wiltshire and Wessex
From here we start the journey back via Swanborough Tump. and hear of the Viking invasion, King Alfred the Great and the formation of what would become England. The final leg a stroll through quiet hamlets and back lanes.
The environment
At intervals along the walk will the environment and ecosystems will be mentioned. The countryside is varied, as are the farms and farming techniques employed. Because of this we will only touch on these subjects. For more in-depth tours relating to the environment, ecology or farming, see the Meet the…… tours.
Lunch
We return to Pewsey and finish with a well-deserved sit-down, with a cuppa and a cake – or perhaps a cream tea. Lunch not included with this tour.
Conclusion
Those arriving by train will be guided towards the station to greet a suitable train towards the Capital. A later trains are an option, and some may choose to linger.

Guided exploration of Jones Mill, luncheon, and afternoon Walk
2024-04-11 09:45 - 17:00 | Pewsey Railway Station (PEW), North Street, Pewsey, Wiltshire, SN9 5ER, United Kingdom
A quality day out with a botanical tour, luncheon, refreshments and afternoon exploration
A high-quality day out. A fully guided morning talk, followed by luncheon and afternoon walk in the beautiful vale of Pewsey.
Morning – Exploration of the multitude of plants bursting into life. The tour is similar to Wandering by Water by Walking Wiltshire and is led by Walking Wiltshire.
Afternoon – Exploration of the local countryside subjects include the importance of transport and the canal, villages, geology, history, the local area and an assortment of facts led by Roaming the Paths.
Refreshments and Briefing
We will serve complimentary teas, coffee and other refreshments while gathering. **(Dietary Requirements). There will be a briefing on the days’ activities, and an equipment check (please remember to bring suitable attire for the weather, snacks and a drink. The drink is essential).
Morning Tour
Distance – 2.3 Miles. Terrain – gentle gradients, some steps, boardwalks, and possible mud. Starting at 10:10 and lasting about 2 hours 45.
From there Mike from Walking Wiltshire will take you on a guided tour looking at the wonder of plants. Setting off immediately into the countryside and onward to Jones’s Mill Nature Reserve, the journey of discovery starts. The morning is spent exploring the plants and their uses. Medicinal, culinary and otherwise. Their history, folk law and legends. Their environment, and numerous other aspects of the plants seen on the day.
A thoroughly enjoyable opportunity to discover the power of some of our most common, and often unseen, companions.
Mike will hand over to another guide who will take you to the venue for lunch.
Lunch
Time to relax and enjoy lunch. ** (Dietary Requirements). 13:00 – 14:30
On this tour, the luncheon will be a feast of local and seasonal, in the form of a ploughman’s buffet. A showcase of the best foods of Pewsey Vale, Wiltshire, Dorset and Somerset. Based around the traditional ploughman’s lunch of Cheese, Ham, Bread, fruit and pickles where you can have as much or as little as you choose. Tea, coffee and other light refreshments are included, or you may opt to add a refreshing pint of Cider or Ale.
Introduction to the afternoon’s proceedings By Alan from Roaming the Paths. Starting with a brief after-dinner talk we will explore the geology of the Vale of Pewsey, and look at how transport has had such an effect on the area.
Afternoon Tour
Distance – 3 Miles. Terrain – gentle gradients.
The environment
At intervals along the walk, the environment and ecosystems will be explored. The countryside is varied, as are the farms and farming techniques employed. Because of this we will only touch on these subjects. For more in-depth tours relating to the environment, ecology or farming, see the Meet the…… tours.
Tea
We return to Pewsey and finish with a well-deserved sit-down, with a cuppa and a cake – or perhaps a cream tea. Stronger options are available behind the bar with an opportunity to sample many local ales, some produced onsite.
Conclusion
Those arriving by train will be guided towards the station to greet the penultimate train of the day towards the Capital. A later train is an option, and some may choose to linger. If arriving by service bus please make us aware at the start of the day or beforehand so we can ensure that you are at the bus stop in a timely fashion.
Arrival by Train
Starts at 9.40. Meet at Pewsey Railway Station forecourt – this is timed to meet the first train from London Paddington and Bristol. A quick head count and then proceed to the Royal Oak for refreshments and brief induction. We will wait if the train(s) are delayed and amend the schedule if required.
Arrival by Car
Park at North Street Car Park. Free all day, usually spaces available. Proceed to the Royal Oak by 9.40 for refreshments.
Arrival by Bus
Pewsey is served by the Salisbury Reds X5 which runs between Salisbury and Swindon. 07:55 from Salisbury, 08:16 From Amesbury timed to arrive at Pewsey 09:00. 08:45 from Swindon 09:17 from Marlborough timed to arrive at 09:36 at Pewsey. Proceed to the Royal Oak for Frefreshments. We will have contingency arrangements if the bus is delayed. PLEASE NOTE if travelling by bus, please make us aware to ensure that you are back in good time as the last service to Swindon is 17:30 and the last service to Salisbury is 18:37.
Health and Safety
All tours will have at least 2 members of staff on hand, and we always strive to have a mix of male and female staff. One will be leading, or running a talk, and there will be a second member of staff at hand. Please feel at ease approaching with any questions, or issues or present any difficulties that may arise. You may want clarification on a point, or develop a blister, or maybe something more serious. Whilst we run a full risk assessment there is always an element of risk in all aspects of life and people can fall ill at any time with little warning. There should always be a member of staff qualified in outdoor first aid either on the walk or a short distance away. Please make us aware of any potential requirements (like the use of an Epipen in the event of a sting) before the day’s events commence.
*Diversity and equality
We are fully compliant with the legislation regarding Protected Characteristics. However, the terrain that some of the walks and tours take may exclude certain physical conditions. This is unfortunate as we have no direct control over this, be it permanent physical obstacles like styles, steps or gates, or temporary ones like mud or long grass. We will only state when a walk or tour is fully accessible. If you would like to know more about any potential limiting factors on any of the walks please feel free to contact us and we will provide you with as much information as possible to help you assess what might be required to assist overcome any potential access issues. We would strive to provide solutions. We do aim to run fully accessible tours in the near future, and are keen to work with people to achieve this goal.
** (Dietary Requirements)
We will strive to cater for all dietary requirements. We request that you contact us if we have not asked for any dietary requirements. Whilst we are confident that we can cater for most, we cannot guarantee a nut-free environment as some of the establishments (especially Public Houses) will have nuts on sale and in the premises. Similarly, it should be noted that Alcohol will be on sale at some of the establishments as they are Public Houses.
You have questions
You may still have questions or want to know more. Please feel free to contact us with any questions you may have.

Guided botanical exploration of Jones Mill
2024-05-18 09:45 - 13:00 | Pewsey Railway Station (PEW), North Street, Pewsey, Wiltshire, SN9 5ER, United Kingdom
A quality morning out with a botanical tour
A high-quality, fully guided morning walk, with informative talk, in the beautiful vale of Pewsey.
Morning – Exploration of the multitude of plants bursting into life. The tour is similar to Wandering by Water by Walking Wiltshire and is led by Walking Wiltshire.

Briefing
There will be a briefing on the days’ activities, and an equipment check (please remember to bring suitable attire for the weather, snacks and a drink. The drink is essential).
Morning Tour
Distance – 2.3 Miles. Terrain – gentle gradients, some steps, boardwalks, and possible mud. Starting at 10:10 and lasting about 2 hours 45.
From there Mike from Walking Wiltshire will take you on a guided tour looking at the wonder of plants. Setting off immediately into the countryside and onward to Jones’s Mill Nature Reserve, the journey of discovery starts. The morning is spent exploring the plants and their uses. Medicinal, culinary and otherwise. Their history, folk law and legends. Their environment, and numerous other aspects of the plants seen on the day.
In recognition of the amazing work done by the Wiltshire Wildlife Trust, £4.00 of the ticket price is donated to Wiltshire Wildlife Trust to help them with their work.
A thoroughly enjoyable opportunity to discover the power of some of our most common, and often unseen, companions.

Information about the day
Useful stuff to know.
Arrival by Train
Starts at 9.45. Meet at Pewsey Railway Station forecourt – this is timed to meet the first train from London Paddington and Bristol. We will wait if the train(s) are delayed and amend the schedule if required.
Arrival by Car
Park at North Street Car Park. Free all day, usually spaces available. Proceed to the Railway Station.
Arrival by Bus
Pewsey is served by the Salisbury Reds X5 which runs between Salisbury and Swindon. 07:55 from Salisbury, 08:16 From Amesbury timed to arrive at Pewsey 09:00. 08:45 from Swindon 09:17 from Marlborough timed to arrive at 09:36 at Pewsey. We will have contingency arrangements if the bus is delayed. PLEASE NOTE if travelling by bus, please make us aware to ensure that you are back in good time as the last service to Swindon is 17:30 and the last service to Salisbury is 18:37.
Health and Safety
All tours will have at least 2 members of staff on hand, and we always strive to have a mix of male and female staff. One will be leading, or running a talk, and there will be a second member of staff at hand. Please feel at ease approaching with any questions, or issues or present any difficulties that may arise. You may want clarification on a point, or develop a blister, or maybe something more serious. Whilst we run a full risk assessment there is always an element of risk in all aspects of life and people can fall ill at any time with little warning. There should always be a member of staff qualified in outdoor first aid either on the walk or a short distance away. Please make us aware of any potential requirements (like the use of an Epipen in the event of a sting) before the day’s events commence.
You have questions
You may still have questions or want to know more. Please feel free to contact us with any questions you may have.

Green Sketching with Emma from "A Little Piece of Wonder".
2024-05-19 10:00 - 12:00 | Jones’s Mill the Vera Jeans Reserve, Dursden Lane, Pewsey, Wiltshire, SN9 5JN, United Kingdom
Green Sketching
A morning green sketching at the beautiful Jones’s Mill with Emma from Little Piece of Wonder.
What is Green Sketching?
Green sketching is a new approach to sketching nature designed to help you connect with nature and enhance your wellbeing. The focus of green sketching is on the process of observing and sketching nature, not the creation of impressive artwork. It’s an informal and fun approach; the aim is not to learn about nature but to use sketching as a tool to see, enjoy and appreciate the beauty that’s all around us, beauty we so often miss.
For more information visit Green Sketching by Little Piece of Wonder.

Green Sketching with Emma from “A Little Piece of Wonder”
2024-05-24 10:00 - 12:00 | Jones’s Mill the Vera Jeans Reserve, Dursden Lane, Pewsey, Wiltshire, SN9 5JN, United Kingdom

Guided botanical exploration of Jones Mill
2024-06-15 10:00 - 13:00 | Pewsey Railway Station (PEW), North Street, Pewsey, Wiltshire, SN9 5ER, United Kingdom
A quality morning out with a botanical tour
A high-quality, fully guided morning walk, with informative talk, in the beautiful vale of Pewsey.
Morning – Exploration of the multitude of plants bursting into life. The tour is similar to Wandering by Water by Walking Wiltshire and is led by Walking Wiltshire.

Briefing
There will be a briefing on the days’ activities, and an equipment check (please remember to bring suitable attire for the weather, snacks and a drink. The drink is essential).
Morning Tour
Distance – 2.3 Miles. Terrain – gentle gradients, some steps, boardwalks, and possible mud. Starting at 10:10 and lasting about 2 hours 45.
From there Mike from Walking Wiltshire will take you on a guided tour looking at the wonder of plants. Setting off immediately into the countryside and onward to Jones’s Mill Nature Reserve, the journey of discovery starts. The morning is spent exploring the plants and their uses. Medicinal, culinary and otherwise. Their history, folk law and legends. Their environment, and numerous other aspects of the plants seen on the day.
In recognition of the amazing work done by the Wiltshire Wildlife Trust, £4.00 of the ticket price is donated to Wiltshire Wildlife Trust to help them with their work.
A thoroughly enjoyable opportunity to discover the power of some of our most common, and often unseen, companions.
You have questions
You may still have questions or want to know more. Please feel free to contact us with any questions you may have.

Roaming Reflections: Post-Election Wildlife & Farming Future
2024-07-13 13:30 - 17:00 | Hallgate House Car Park, Broomcroft Road, Pewsey, Wiltshire, sn9 5ex, United Kingdom
It is time to calm the mind and soul
Let’s get out into the countryside. Listen to the birds and the bees, and smell the summer aromas.
This is not a politically based outing. Nature is not political, outside of humanity, politics do not exist. But politics does unfortunately permeate everything that affects the countryside, wildlife, farming, rural life and so forth. We have had weeks of campaigning after a non-stop conveyor belt of doom and gloom on the news. So, let’s see if we can find some optimism, things to agree on not disagree about, aims and aspirations that we can work towards.
What’s the agenda?

There is no agenda, other than go for a walk. See and enjoy the good things out there and where the conversation takes us.
I will start with the one immutable subject at the start of the walk, a little overview of the geology of the vale, and how that shapes the landscape.
Geology is everything. The plants and animals, what can and can’t be farmed, how the communications and populations developed leading to the landscape you see today.
Beyond that, let’s see where the conversation takes us.
Besides my outline, let’s hope for ancient customs and folk law, regenerative farming, hedge laying, beer brewing, vegetation management, sarsen stones, which cheese is best, favourite flowers, the smell of fresh hay, and nice weather (no rain, no heatwave).
The walk will be between 4 – 6 miles depending on how we feel on the day. If some want to go further, and some want to cut it shorter we should be able to accommodate and split the group if needed.

You can get an idea of the potential route on Outdoor Active (sorry no map here because it might get me in hot water with copyright issues).
I would have done this walk a week earlier. However, I am involved in the election count and will have worked a considerably long shift. I expect it to take me a day or two to get back in good order!
It will probably conclude in a public house for refreshment.

Clear the mind and soul with Green Sketching with Emma from “A Little Piece of Wonder”
2024-07-19 10:00 - 12:00 | Jones’s Mill the Vera Jeans Reserve, Dursden Lane, Pewsey, Wiltshire, SN9 5JN, United Kingdom
Green Sketching
A morning green sketching at the beautiful Jones’s Mill with Emma from Little Piece of Wonder.
Have a few hours out and enjoy some mindful time in nature.
What is Green Sketching?
Green sketching is a new approach to sketching nature designed to help you connect with nature and enhance your well-being. The focus of green sketching is on the process of observing and drawing nature, not the creation of impressive artwork.
It’s an informal and fun approach; the aim is not to learn about nature but to use sketching as a tool to see, enjoy and appreciate the beauty that’s all around us, the beauty we so often miss when we’re rushing around or staring at our phones. Taking time to notice and appreciate nature’s beauty is important. It makes us feel good and it encourages us to take better care of the environment.
Who can do it?
Suitable for all ages and artistic abilities, green sketching is about seeing and enjoying nature, making it perfect for busy individuals looking for a mindful activity. No prior drawing skills are needed, making it an inclusive activity for everyone.
For more information visit Green Sketching by Little Piece of Wonder.
Make Green Sketching part of a day out or group activity
If you would like to make Green sketching part of a bigger day out for a group have a look at the information on Group Bookings or Contact Us to start a discussion.

A quality morning out with a botanical tour
2024-07-27 10:00 - 13:00 | Pewsey Railway Station (PEW), North Street, Pewsey, Wiltshire, SN9 5ER, United Kingdom
A quality morning out with a botanical tour
A high-quality, fully guided morning walk, with informative talk, in the beautiful vale of Pewsey.
Morning – Exploration of the multitude of plants bursting into life. The tour is similar to Wandering by Water by Walking Wiltshire and is led by Walking Wiltshire.

Briefing
There will be a briefing on the day’s activities, and an equipment check (please remember to bring suitable attire for the weather, snacks and a drink. The drink is essential).
Morning Tour
Distance – 2.3 Miles. Terrain – gentle gradients, some steps, boardwalks, and possible mud. Starting at 10:10 and lasting about 2 hours 45.
From there Mike from Walking Wiltshire will take you on a guided tour looking at the wonder of plants. Setting off immediately into the countryside and onward to Jones’s Mill Nature Reserve, the journey of discovery starts. The morning is spent exploring the plants and their uses. Medicinal, culinary and otherwise. Their history, folk law and legends. Their environment, and numerous other aspects of the plants seen on the day.
In recognition of the amazing work done by the Wiltshire Wildlife Trust, £1.00 of the ticket price is donated to Wiltshire Wildlife Trust to help them with their work.
A thoroughly enjoyable opportunity to discover the power of some of our most common, and often unseen, companions.
You have questions
You may still have questions or want to know more. Please feel free to contact us with any questions you may have.

A quality day out with a botanical tour, luncheon, refreshments and afternoon exploration
2024-08-17 10:00 - 17:00, 2024-09-14 10:00 - 17:00 | Pewsey Railway Station (PEW), North Street, Pewsey, Wiltshire, SN9 5ER, United Kingdom
Guided tour of Jones Mill, luncheon, and afternoon Walk
A high-quality day out. A fully guided morning talk, followed by luncheon and afternoon walk in the beautiful vale of Pewsey.
Morning – Exploration of the multitude of plants bursting into life. The tour is similar to Wandering by Water by Walking Wiltshire and is led by Walking Wiltshire.
Afternoon – Exploration of the local countryside subjects include the importance of transport and the canal, villages, geology, history, the local area and an assortment of facts led by Roaming the Paths.
Briefing
There will be a briefing on the day’s activities, and an equipment check (please remember to bring suitable attire for the weather, snacks and a drink. The drink is essential).
Morning Tour
Distance – 2.3 Miles. Terrain – gentle gradients, some steps, boardwalks, and possible mud. Starting at 10:10 and lasting about 2 hours 45.
From there Mike from Walking Wiltshire will take you on a guided tour looking at the wonder of plants. Setting off immediately into the countryside and onward to Jones’s Mill Nature Reserve, the journey of discovery starts. The morning is spent exploring the plants and their uses. Medicinal, culinary and otherwise. Their history, folk law and legends. Their environment, and numerous other aspects of the plants seen on the day.
A thoroughly enjoyable opportunity to discover the power of some of our most common, and often unseen, companions.
In recognition of the amazing work done by the Wiltshire Wildlife Trust, £8.00 of the ticket price is donated to Wiltshire Wildlife Trust to help them with their work.
Mike will hand over to another guide who will take you to the venue for lunch.
Lunch
Time to relax and enjoy lunch. 13:00 – 14:30
On this tour, the luncheon will be a feast of local and seasonal, in the form of a ploughman’s buffet. A showcase of the best foods of Pewsey Vale, Wiltshire, Dorset and Somerset. Based around the traditional ploughman’s lunch of Cheese, Ham, Bread, fruit and pickles where you can have as much or as little as you choose. Tea, coffee and other light refreshments are included, or you may opt to add a refreshing pint of Cider or Ale.
Introduction to the afternoon’s proceedings By Alan from Roaming the Paths. Starting with a brief after-dinner talk we will explore the geology of the Vale of Pewsey, and look at how transport has had such an effect on the area.
Afternoon Tour
Distance – 3 Miles. Terrain – gentle gradients.
The environment
At intervals along the walk, the environment and ecosystems will be explored. The countryside is varied, as are the farms and farming techniques employed. Because of this we will only touch on these subjects. For more in-depth tours relating to the environment, ecology or farming, see the Meet the…… tours.
Tea
We return to Pewsey and finish with a well-deserved sit-down, with a cuppa and a cake – or perhaps a cream tea. Stronger options are available behind the bar with an opportunity to sample many local ales, some produced onsite.
Conclusion
Those arriving by train will be guided towards the station to greet the penultimate train of the day towards the Capital. A later train is an option, and some may choose to linger. If arriving by service bus please make us aware at the start of the day or beforehand so we can ensure that you are at the bus stop in a timely fashion.
You have questions
You may still have questions or want to know more. Please feel free to contact us with any questions you may have.

Join me on a stroll in support of Sands
2024-09-07 10:00 - 12:30 | The Royal Oak, Pewey, 35 North St, Pewsey, Wiltshire, SN9 5ES, United Kingdom
Join me for a Stroll in the Vale of Pewsey
I am taking on the walk 100k in September in support of the Sands charity. Join me for a scenic stroll in support of SANDS. Explore beautiful paths while raising awareness and funds for stillbirth and neonatal death charity.
This is not a formal guided walk or tour, rather an invitation to join me for a Roam whilst doing a little segment of my 100K.
How far is it
This is only a segment, and it’s not going to be a yomp up the hills. Depending on the weather and how enthusiastic we feel, I estimate between 3 – 6 miles (5 – 10 Kilometres). This will be within the vale, so no big hills to ascend.
Do I need to pay?
No, this is not a guided walk or talk, just a wander about. So you will be fully responsible for your equipment, etc. Don’t forget to bring your water & snacks, plus appropriate clothing.
Do I need to donate?
No. This is just an invitation to join me and hopefully meet a few other people who enjoy the countryside and being outdoors.
Where? When?
10AM. Royal Oak, Pewsey. Get there a bit earlier if you fancy a Breakfast or a beverage. We can meet at the side entrance on the entry to the Car Park.
We will return to the Oak, where Victuals will be available for purchase.
Questions?
Please feel free to Contact Me about this event only contact the Royal Oak regarding their food and drink offerings.

Unlimited visit Ploughman's Buffet, featuring Wiltshires Finest local Foods
2024-12-07 12:00 - 15:00 | The Royal Oak, Pewey, 35 North St, Pewsey, Wiltshire, SN9 5ES, United Kingdom
Make and enjoy your perfect Ploughman’s Lunch with our Ploughman’s Buffet
Celebrate the best of local foods by making your own Perfect Ploughman’s.
Select from a plentiful supply of the finest ingredients. Sample the Bread, Cheeses, Ham, chutneys and relishes. Fresh creamy butter, Pies, pickles, and Pâté. See what you like and go back to make your perfect ploughmans. Then maybe a bit more after……
A Roaming the Paths event Proudly laid on by The Royal Oak in Pewey in association with ploughmans-lunch.co.uk
Local and proud!
It’s time to celebrate the beautiful bounty produced by the glorious Wiltshire Countryside. A beautiful selection of Local Produce.
Bread from Marshalls Bakery – including a special bread made exclusively for these events.
Cheeses from around Wiltshire and Somerset.
Brave Chutney and Tracklement Pickles.
Fresh-made pies and freshly cooked ham.
There’s no limit to your creativity
There will be tables laden with delights, and we want you to feel free to be as creative or specific as you like. Help yourself to as much or as little as you like – just don’t let it go to waste.
The ticket gains you entry to the venue, and after that, it’s all yours. No need for a pyramidal plate, just revisit and refresh to find the perfect combination.
Unsure if you will like something? Have a sampling plate first, then go back and make your perfect Ploughman’s lunch.
Get your ticket now, and bring a friend along too
Get in with the early bird offering to be guaranteed a place at the table. Updates will be posted on Ploughmans Lunch

Wiltshire Winter Warmer - Seasonal Soups, Fresh air and log fires
2025-01-18 10:00 - 15:30 | The Royal Oak, Pewey, 35 North St, Pewsey, Wiltshire, SN9 5ES, United Kingdom
Embrace the Season
UPDATE – Seasonal Soups has been Postponed – click for the next event. The walk is going ahead, but will be informal.
January can seem like the longest month of the year, so here is a lifeline to help you through it.
Take me to the tickets
A mix-and-match collection of events is guaranteed to warm the cockles and put a spring in your step as we head towards spring.
Your Choice: Two Events – Do One or Both
Two consecutive events – do either, do both – it’s your choice.
Walk – 10am – 12.15pm. Start with a cuppa and a hot sandwich at the Royal Oak. A 2 hour stroll about the local countryside and back to the pub.
Soup – 12.30pm – 3.30pm. Enjoy unlimited amounts of fresh homemade seasonal soups.
In the morning, enjoy a Wonderful Wiltshire Winter Walk, and from lunchtime into the afternoon, indulge in an unlimited feast of Seasonal Soups served with freshly baked local bread, local butter, West Country cheeses, and The Royal Oak’s Triple Wiltshire Ham – all with roaring log fires in every room.
Wonderful Wiltshire Winter Walk
Winter is a great time to explore the countryside and see things in a whole new way. I won’t lie – it can be chilly or damp, and mud will be present. But there are also magnificent things to see. The land is far from dead; it’s merely resting, ready for the explosion of new life in spring.
It’s a great time to understand what lies beneath: the geology and structure of the landscape, the shape and power of trees with their skeletal forms naked in the winter wind, and the places where animals live, visible now that the verdant growth of summer is gone.
This is not a race or an effort to cover distance, but rather an opportunity to be outside and connect with the natural world. Take time to look, listen, smell, and think.
Start and Finish: The walk begins at The Royal Oak with a hot drink and a bite to eat (hot sandwich or cake) and ends at the same place.
A more detailed program will be published before the event.
Super Seasonal Soups
Enjoy an unlimited feast of seasonal soups alongside plenty of local bread and butter, hearty cheeses, ham, and other delicious accompaniments – all while warming yourself in front of a roaring fire.
When it’s cold and chilly outside, what better way to cheer yourself than with wholesome, heart-warming food? With an emphasis on local, regional, and seasonal ingredients, our soups are guaranteed to nourish and satisfy both body and soul.
It’s a perfect chance to catch up with friends or meet new people. While you toast yourself by the fire, we’ll look ahead to the coming seasons.
Accompany your soups with bread or sandwiches, high-quality cheeses, ham, and other fillings of your choice. Then go back for seconds—or thirds!
More details on the soups will be available closer to the time. We’ll also email a quick poll to gather favourites and special requests.
How Does It Work?
You choose!

Do the walk.
Enjoy the soups.
Do either – or do both!

See ticket options below.
Get Your Ticket Now – Bring a Friend Along Too!
Get your tickets now to guarantee a place. Select from:

Winter Walk
Seasonal Soups
Wiltshire Warmer (Day ticket for both events)

Getting there
Train – if arriving by train for the walk, we can meet you at the station before hand and walk with you to the Oak where the events start.
Car – Lots of parking in the Royal Oak car park and the village car parks nearby.
Where
In the Royal Oak.

Allergens, Food Intolerances, and Dietary Requirements
We can offer gluten-free alternatives, and some are often available. Primarily, these include potato-based options, but we can also provide rice or gluten-free bread upon request.
While our dishes do not intentionally contain nuts, we cannot guarantee they are nut-free, as all foods are prepared in environments where nuts may be present.
There will be vegetarian soup options available.
Any questions? Please feel free to Contact us.
Get a ticket and let your creativity flourish, your tastebuds will thank you for it.

Unlimited Ploughman’s Buffet with Wiltshire’s Finest Foods
2025-02-08 12:00 - 15:00 | The Royal Oak, Pewey, 35 North St, Pewsey, Wiltshire, SN9 5ES, United Kingdom
Make and Enjoy Your Perfect Ploughman’s Lunch with Our Ploughman’s Buffet
Take me to the tickets
Celebrate the best of local foods by creating your own perfect Ploughman’s.
Select from a plentiful supply of the finest ingredients: sample the bread, cheeses, ham, chutneys, and relishes. Enjoy fresh creamy butter, pies, pickles, and pâté. See what you like, and go back to craft your perfect Ploughman’s. Then maybe a bit more after…
A Roaming the Paths event proudly hosted by The Royal Oak in Pewsey in association with ploughmans-lunch.co.uk.
Local and Proud!
It’s time to celebrate the beautiful bounty produced by the glorious Wiltshire countryside. A delightful selection of local produce awaits:
– **Bread** from Marshalls Bakery – including a special bread made exclusively for these events.*
– **Cheeses** from Wiltshire and Somerset, including local specialities, mature Cheddars, Somerset Brie, Dorset Red, and Vinny.
– **Triple Wiltshire Ham** – Wiltshire-grown, Wiltshire-cured, and cooked fresh at The Royal Oak for the occasion. This is the ham you dream about.
– **Brave Chutney and Tracklement Pickles.**
– **Freshly made pies and sausage rolls.**
– **A variety of local butters** from Wiltshire and Somerset.
There’s No Limit to Your Creativity
Tables will be laden with delights, and we encourage you to be as creative or specific as you like. Help yourself to as much or as little as you fancy – just don’t let it go to waste.
Your ticket gains you entry to the venue, and after that, it’s all yours. No need for a pyramidal plate – just revisit and refresh to find the perfect combination.
Unsure if you’ll like something? Start with a sampling plate, then return to create your perfect Ploughman’s lunch.
Get Your Ticket Now and Bring a Friend Along Too
Grab the early bird offer to guarantee your place at the table. Updates will be posted on Ploughman’s Lunch.

* Allergens, Food Intolerances, and Dietary Requirements
We can offer gluten-free alternatives, and some are often available. Primarily these would be potato products, but we can provide rice or gluten-free bread upon request.
While dishes tend not to contain nuts, we cannot guarantee they are nut-free, as all foods are prepared in environments where nuts may be present.
Besides cheeses, pork-based products are heavily featured. If pork is unsuitable, please message us, and we will offer tasty alternatives.
Ploughman’s lunches, by definition, are not vegan. However, please contact us to discuss potential alternatives.

Get a ticket and let your creativity flourish, your tastebuds will thank you for it.

Wiltshire Winter Warmer - Seasonal Soups, Fresh air and log fires
2025-02-22 10:00 - 15:30 | The Royal Oak, Pewey, 35 North St, Pewsey, Wiltshire, SN9 5ES, United Kingdom
Embrace the Season
January can seem like the longest month of the year, so here is a lifeline to help you through it.
Take me to the tickets
A mix-and-match collection of events is guaranteed to warm the cockles and put a spring in your step as we head towards spring.
Your Choice: Two Events – Do One or Both
Two consecutive events – do either, do both – it’s your choice.
Walk – 10am – 12.15pm. Start with a cuppa and a hot sandwich at the Royal Oak. A 2 hour stroll about the local countryside and back to the pub.
Soup – 12.30pm – 3.30pm. Enjoy unlimited amounts of fresh homemade seasonal soups.
In the morning, enjoy a Wonderful Wiltshire Winter Walk, and from lunchtime into the afternoon, indulge in an unlimited feast of Seasonal Soups served with freshly baked local bread, local butter, West Country cheeses, and The Royal Oak’s Triple Wiltshire Ham – all with roaring log fires in every room.
Wonderful Wiltshire Winter Walk
Winter is a great time to explore the countryside and see things in a whole new way. I won’t lie – it can be chilly or damp, and mud will be present. But there are also magnificent things to see. The land is far from dead; it’s merely resting, ready for the explosion of new life in spring.
It’s a great time to understand what lies beneath: the geology and structure of the landscape, the shape and power of trees with their skeletal forms naked in the winter wind, and the places where animals live, visible now that the verdant growth of summer is gone.
This is not a race or an effort to cover distance, but rather an opportunity to be outside and connect with the natural world. Take time to look, listen, smell, and think.
Start and Finish: The walk begins at The Royal Oak with a hot drink and a bite to eat (hot sandwich or cake) and ends at the same place.
A more detailed program will be published before the event.
Super Seasonal Soups
Enjoy an unlimited feast of seasonal soups alongside plenty of local bread and butter, hearty cheeses, ham, and other delicious accompaniments – all while warming yourself in front of a roaring fire.
When it’s cold and chilly outside, what better way to cheer yourself than with wholesome, heart-warming food? With an emphasis on local, regional, and seasonal ingredients, our soups are guaranteed to nourish and satisfy both body and soul.
It’s a perfect chance to catch up with friends or meet new people. While you toast yourself by the fire, we’ll look ahead to the coming seasons.
Accompany your soups with bread or sandwiches, high-quality cheeses, ham, and other fillings of your choice. Then go back for seconds—or thirds!
More details on the soups will be available closer to the time. We’ll also email a quick poll to gather favourites and special requests.
How Does It Work?
You choose!

Do the walk.
Enjoy the soups.
Do either – or do both!

See ticket options below.
Get Your Ticket Now – Bring a Friend Along Too!
Get your tickets now to guarantee a place. Select from:

Winter Walk
Seasonal Soups
Wiltshire Warmer (Day ticket for both events)

Getting there
Train – if arriving by train for the walk, we can meet you at the station before hand and walk with you to the Oak where the events start.
Car – Lots of parking in the Royal Oak car park and the village car parks nearby.
Where
In the Royal Oak.

Allergens, Food Intolerances, and Dietary Requirements
We can offer gluten-free alternatives, and some are often available. Primarily, these include potato-based options, but we can also provide rice or gluten-free bread upon request.
While our dishes do not intentionally contain nuts, we cannot guarantee they are nut-free, as all foods are prepared in environments where nuts may be present.
There will be vegetarian soup options available.
Any questions? Please feel free to Contact us.
Get a ticket and let your creativity flourish, your tastebuds will thank you for it.

Chalk and Cheese - Our Unlimited Ploughman’s Buffet with Wiltshire’s Finest Foods
2025-03-29 12:00 - 15:00 | The Royal Oak, Pewey, 35 North St, Pewsey, Wiltshire, SN9 5ES, United Kingdom
Make and Enjoy Your Perfect Ploughman’s Lunch with Our Ploughman’s Buffet
Take me to the tickets
Spring is here, so lets really get celebrating the best of Wiltshire with our Chalk and Cheese Ploughman’s. I’m wilfully ignoring the references to John Gower in 1390, and sticking with the Wiltshire version of Chalk and Cheese.
The centrepiece cheese (besides the massive block of Somerset mature cheddar) will be Wiltshire Loaf, Avebury (think Wiltshire Brie) and others from Brinkworth Dairy.
So, celebrate the best of local foods by creating your own perfect Ploughman’s.
Select from a plentiful supply of the finest ingredients: sample the bread, cheeses, ham, chutneys, and relishes. Enjoy fresh creamy butter, pies, pickles, and pâté. See what you like, and go back to craft your perfect Ploughman’s. Then maybe a bit more after…
A Roaming the Paths event proudly hosted by The Royal Oak in Pewsey in association with ploughmans-lunch.co.uk.
Local and Proud!
It’s time to celebrate the beautiful bounty produced by the glorious Wiltshire countryside. A delightful selection of local produce awaits:
– **Bread** from Marshalls Bakery – including a special bread made exclusively for these events.*
– **Cheeses** from Wiltshire and Somerset, including local specialities, mature Cheddars, Somerset Brie, Dorset Red, and Vinny.
– **Triple Wiltshire Ham** – Wiltshire-grown, Wiltshire-cured, and cooked fresh at The Royal Oak for the occasion. This is the ham you dream about.
– **Brave Chutney and Tracklement Pickles.**
– **Freshly made pies and sausage rolls.**
– **A variety of local butters** from Wiltshire and Somerset.
There’s No Limit to Your Creativity
Tables will be laden with delights, and we encourage you to be as creative or specific as you like. Help yourself to as much or as little as you fancy – just don’t let it go to waste.
Your ticket gains you entry to the venue, and after that, it’s all yours. No need for a pyramidal plate – just revisit and refresh to find the perfect combination.
Unsure if you’ll like something? Start with a sampling plate, then return to create your perfect Ploughman’s lunch.
Get Your Ticket Now and Bring a Friend Along Too
Grab the early bird offer to guarantee your place at the table. Updates will be posted on Ploughman’s Lunch.

* Allergens, Food Intolerances, and Dietary Requirements
We can offer gluten-free alternatives, and some are often available. Primarily these would be potato products, but we can provide rice or gluten-free bread upon request.
While dishes tend not to contain nuts, we cannot guarantee they are nut-free, as all foods are prepared in environments where nuts may be present.
Besides cheeses, pork-based products are heavily featured. If pork is unsuitable, please message us, and we will offer tasty alternatives.
Ploughman’s lunches, by definition, are not vegan. However, please contact us to discuss potential alternatives.

Get a ticket and let your creativity flourish, your tastebuds will thank you for it.

Accessible for All Tour - Getting to know your spring weeds
2025-04-30 17:00 - 19:00 | Co-op Car Park, Pewsey, Co-op Car Park, Pewsey, Wiltshire, SN9 5AG, United Kingdom
An Evening botanical tour
Take me to the tickets
A high-quality, fully guided walk, with informative talk, in the beautiful vale of Pewsey.
Exploration of the multitude of plants bursting into life. Spring is a magical time as life races into action after the winters hibernation. Who knows what we will see, as every day brings something new.
This tour will be located completely within the village – you will be surprised at what is in plain sight! This tour is led by Walking Wiltshire.
Is it for me?
We are trying to make this tour accessible to all.
Starting in the Co-op car park we will head upstream along the River Avon. Crossing the road by the Co-op entrance, passing by the heritage centre and along the river by Whatley Drive. Then Crossing Broomcroft road and into the Scotchel. Depending on time available the tour will head towards Bucklease Mill where it will finish, and we will head back to the Co-op car park – although some are planning on visiting the Royal Oak for refreshments.
Apart from entering the Scotchell by Broomcroft road, and leaving by the railway embankment, the route is reasonably level. The paths are reasonably wide, although the bridge in the Scotchell is a little narrow. (I will measure this, as it is wide enough for most Wheelchairs, push chairs, strollers and mobility scooters, it may be too narrow for Trampers – I will find out). Most surfaces are relatively smooth, although there are a few lumpier bits in the Scotchell. Should be OK for most ambulant people even those with mobility restrictions, with care. Assistance with slopes can be provided (please contact me before had to ensure provision): if issues are encountered during the tour be assured assistance will be available.
I have concerns…..
Do please drop me a line. I’m not going to claim that it is accessible for all – Contact me to discuss any concerns. I want to know what needs to be done to improve access to the countryside, so your feedback is important.
If you have an assistant, advocate or carer, they can join for free.
I can meet you before hand and cover the route if this is of assistance.
What happens?
Mike from Walking Wiltshire will take you on a guided tour looking at the wonder of plants. Setting off from the car park it will not be long before something is seen worthy of investigation. Then cross the road towards the heritage centre and follow the river onward to the Scotchel, the journey of discovery starts. The time is spent exploring the plants and their uses. Medicinal, culinary and otherwise. Their history, folk law and legends. Their environment, and numerous other aspects of the plants seen on the day.
A thoroughly enjoyable opportunity to discover the power of some of our most common, and often unseen, companions.
You have questions
You may still have questions or want to know more. Please feel free to contact us with any questions you may have.

Cheese & Things - Our Unlimited Ploughman’s Buffet with Wiltshire’s Finest Foods
2025-05-03 12:00 - 15:00 | The Royal Oak, Pewey, 35 North St, Pewsey, Wiltshire, SN9 5ES, United Kingdom
Make and Enjoy Your Perfect Ploughman’s Lunch with Our Ploughman’s Buffet
Take me to the tickets
Spring is here, so lets really get celebrating the best of Wiltshire with our Cheese & things unlimited Ploughman’s buffet.
Beside cheese, this ploughman’s will also have a side show of Pork Pies. There are many butchers and bakers up and down the land turning out superb Pork Pies. Whilst they may not be able to bear the “Melton” title, does that matter if they are excellent? I want to explore what Wiltshire has to offer.
I think we may also need to explore less meaty pies too, as who can resist a top quality pie of any filling when done well – and whilst it’s impossible to do a Vegan Ploughman’s using locally produced food, it is very possible to do a vegetarian ploughman’s. Please feel free to message me with any suggestions of excellent produce you would like to see better known.
Besides the crowd-pleaser of a massive block of Somerset mature cheddar, there will be and array of Wiltshire, Somerset and Dorset Cheeses. Cheeses including Wiltshire Loaf, Avebury (think Wiltshire Brie) and others from Brinkworth Dairy. Dorset Red from Ford Farm, Either or both Brie and Camembert from Cricket St. Thomas, and many other, confirmed nearer the date.
And as always, the award winning, super local most amazing bread from Marshals Bakery. See how many Wiltshire Marque accredited products you can sample.
So, celebrate the best of local foods by creating your own perfect Ploughman’s.
Select from a plentiful supply of the finest ingredients: sample the bread, cheeses, ham, chutneys, and relishes. Enjoy fresh creamy butter, pies, pickles, and pâté. See what you like, and go back to craft your perfect Ploughman’s. Then maybe a bit more after…
A Roaming the Paths event proudly hosted by The Royal Oak in Pewsey in association with ploughmans-lunch.co.uk.
Local and Proud!
It’s time to celebrate the beautiful bounty produced by the glorious Wiltshire countryside. A delightful selection of local produce awaits:
– **Bread** from Marshalls Bakery – including a special bread made exclusively for these events.*
– **Cheeses** from Wiltshire and Somerset, including local specialities, mature Cheddars, Somerset Brie, Dorset Red, and Vinny.
– **Triple Wiltshire Ham** – Wiltshire-grown, Wiltshire-cured, and cooked fresh at The Royal Oak for the occasion. This is the ham you dream about.
– **Brave Chutney and Tracklements Pickles.**
– **Freshly made pies and sausage rolls.**
– **A variety of local butters** from Wiltshire and Somerset.
There’s No Limit to Your Creativity
Tables will be laden with delights, and we encourage you to be as creative or specific as you like. Help yourself to as much or as little as you fancy – just don’t let it go to waste.
Your ticket gains you entry to the venue, and after that, it’s all yours. No need for a pyramidal plate – just revisit and refresh to find the perfect combination.
Unsure if you’ll like something? Start with a sampling plate, then return to create your perfect Ploughman’s lunch.
Get Your Ticket Now and Bring a Friend Along Too
Grab the early bird offer to guarantee your place at the table. Updates will be posted on Ploughman’s Lunch.

* Allergens, Food Intolerances, and Dietary Requirements
We can offer gluten-free alternatives, and some are often available. Primarily these would be potato products, but we can provide rice or gluten-free bread upon request.
While dishes tend not to contain nuts, we cannot guarantee they are nut-free, as all foods are prepared in environments where nuts may be present.
Besides cheeses, pork-based products are heavily featured. If pork is unsuitable, please message us, and we will offer tasty alternatives.
Ploughman’s lunches, by definition, are not vegan. However, please contact us to discuss potential alternatives.

Get a ticket and let your creativity flourish, your taste buds will thank you for it.

Saturday Special for children - Getting to know your spring weeds (Morning)
2025-05-17 10:00 - 12:00 | Co-op Car Park, Pewsey, Co-op Car Park, Pewsey, Wiltshire, SN9 5AG, United Kingdom
An Morning botanical tour
Take me to the tickets
“Eye of newt and toe of frog, Wool of bat and tongue of dog.”
A journey of discovery for all the family.
What was in the lotions and potions of olden times? Go on a journey of exploration that will inform and spark the imagination. All around plants burst into life in the spring – but did you know nearly all have a use, for better or worse!
Spring is a magical time as life races into action after the winters dark days. Join us on an exploration of the multitude of plants bursting into life. Who knows what we will see, as every day brings something new.
This tour will be located completely within the village – you will be surprised at what is in plain sight! This tour is led by Walking Wiltshire.
Is it for me?
This should be accessible to nearly all children, and usable with pushchairs, prams and strollers. Ground may be challenging for Scooters, and not suitable for bike riding (as this will be a slow amble).
Starting in the Co-op car park we will head upstream along the River Avon. Crossing the road by the Co-op entrance, passing by the heritage centre and along the river by Whatley Drive. Then Crossing Broomcroft road and into the Scotchel. Depending on time available the tour will head towards Bucklease Mill where it will finish, and we will head back to the Co-op car park – although the Royal Oak is family friendly and open for refreshments.
All children need to be accompanied by an adult, and remain the responsibility of the adult. The route is alongside the river: the route is safe however caution is required.
You have questions
Do please drop me a line. I’m not going to claim that it is accessible for all – Contact me to discuss any concerns. I want to know what needs to be done to improve access to the countryside, so your feedback is important.
If you have an assistant, advocate or carer, they can join for free.
I can meet you before hand and cover the route if this is of assistance.
Please feel free to contact us with any questions you may have.
What happens?
Mike from Walking Wiltshire will take you on a guided tour looking at the wonder of plants. Setting off from the car park it will not be long before something is seen worthy of investigation. Then cross the road towards the heritage centre and follow the river onward to the Scotchel, the journey of discovery starts. The time is spent exploring the plants and their uses. Medicinal, culinary and otherwise. Their history, folk law and legends. Their environment, and numerous other aspects of the plants seen on the day.
Get Tickets for a thoroughly enjoyable opportunity to discover the power of some of our most common, and often unseen, companions.

DATE CHANGE due to weather - Holiday Special for children - Getting to know your spring weeds
2025-05-28 13:00 - 15:00 | Co-op Car Park, Pewsey, Co-op Car Park, Pewsey, Wiltshire, SN9 5AG, United Kingdom
An Afternoon botanical tour
Take me to the tickets
Postponed by 24 hours due to weather.
“Eye of newt and toe of frog, Wool of bat and tongue of dog.”
A journey of discovery for all the family.
What was in the lotions and potions of olden times? Go on a journey of exploration that will inform and spark the imagination. All around plants burst into life in the spring – but did you know nearly all have a use, for better or worse!
Spring is a magical time as life races into action after the winters dark days. Join us on an exploration of the multitude of plants bursting into life. Who knows what we will see, as every day brings something new.
This tour will be located completely within the village – you will be surprised at what is in plain sight! This tour is led by Walking Wiltshire.
Is it for me?
This should be accessible to nearly all children, and usable with pushchairs, prams and strollers. Ground may be challenging for Scooters, and not suitable for bike riding (as this will be a slow amble).
Starting in the Co-op car park we will head upstream along the River Avon. Crossing the road by the Co-op entrance, passing by the heritage centre and along the river by Whatley Drive. Then Crossing Broomcroft road and into the Scotchel. Depending on time available the tour will head towards Bucklease Mill where it will finish, and we will head back to the Co-op car park – although the Royal Oak is family friendly and open for refreshments.
All children need to be accompanied by an adult, and remain the responsibility of the adult. The route is alongside the river: the route is safe however caution is required.
You have questions
Do please drop me a line. I’m not going to claim that it is accessible for all – Contact me to discuss any concerns. I want to know what needs to be done to improve access to the countryside, so your feedback is important.
If you have an assistant, advocate or carer, they can join for free.
I can meet you before hand and cover the route if this is of assistance.
Please feel free to contact us with any questions you may have.
What happens?
Mike from Walking Wiltshire will take you on a guided tour looking at the wonder of plants. Setting off from the car park it will not be long before something is seen worthy of investigation. Then cross the road towards the heritage centre and follow the river onward to the Scotchel, the journey of discovery starts. The time is spent exploring the plants and their uses. Medicinal, culinary and otherwise. Their history, folk law and legends. Their environment, and numerous other aspects of the plants seen on the day.
Get Tickets for a thoroughly enjoyable opportunity to discover the power of some of our most common, and often unseen, companions.

Solstice Special - Our Unlimited Ploughman’s Buffet with Wiltshire’s Finest Foods
2025-06-14 12:00 - 15:00 | The Royal Oak, Pewey, 35 North St, Pewsey, Wiltshire, SN9 5ES, United Kingdom
Make and Enjoy Your Perfect Ploughman’s Lunch with Our Ploughman’s Buffet
Take me to the tickets
Summer is afoot, so lets crank it up a notch!
Midsummer is here, so let’s celebrate the longest day with the finest foods. OK, yes, Solstice is the Saturday after this one, and Midsummer is officially the 24th. I expect you may have things to do at midsummer. I plan on being outside with a jug of my favourite cider, so this event is a week earlier. I hope that’s cleared that up.
Right. What’s on? As ever, besides the crowd-pleaser of a massive block of Somerset mature cheddar, there will be an array of Wiltshire, Somerset and Dorset Cheeses. I will search for some more unusual cheeses from Wiltshire and the surrounding counties. We have something for all if you are a connoisseur or just like a massive slab of the best of the west. Cheeses including Wiltshire Loaf, Avebury (think Wiltshire Brie) and others from Brinkworth Dairy. Assorted cheeses from Lyburn, Camembert from Cricket St. Thomas, and many others confirmed nearer the date.
And as always, the award-winning, super-local, most amazing bread from Marshall’s Bakery. See how many Wiltshire Marque-accredited products you can sample.
So, celebrate the best of local foods by creating your own perfect Ploughman’s.
Select from a plentiful supply of the finest ingredients: sample the bread, cheeses, ham, chutneys, and relishes. Enjoy fresh creamy butter, pies, pickles, and pâté. See what you like, and go back to craft your perfect Ploughman’s. Then maybe a bit more after…
A Roaming the Paths event proudly hosted by The Royal Oak in Pewsey in association with ploughmans-lunch.co.uk.
Local and Proud!
It’s time to celebrate the beautiful bounty produced by the glorious Wiltshire countryside. A delightful selection of local produce awaits:
– **Bread** from Marshall’s Bakery – including a special bread made exclusively for these events.*
– **Cheeses** from Wiltshire and Somerset, including local specialities, mature Cheddars, Somerset Brie, Dorset Red, and Vinny.
– **Triple Wiltshire Ham** – Wiltshire-grown, Wiltshire-cured, and cooked fresh at The Royal Oak for the occasion. This is the ham you dream about.
– **Brave Chutney and Tracklements Pickles.**
– **Freshly made pies and sausage rolls.**
– **A variety of local butters** from Wiltshire and Somerset.
There’s No Limit to Your Creativity
Tables will be laden with delights, and we encourage you to be as creative or specific as you like. Help yourself to as much or as little as you fancy – just don’t let it go to waste.
Your ticket gains you entry to the venue, and after that, it’s all yours. No need for a pyramidal plate – just revisit and refresh to find the perfect combination.
Unsure if you’ll like something? Start with a sampling plate, then return to create your perfect Ploughman’s lunch.
Get Your Ticket Now and Bring a Friend Along Too
Grab the early bird offer to guarantee your place at the table. Updates will be posted on Ploughman’s Lunch.

* Allergens, Food Intolerances, and Dietary Requirements
We can offer gluten-free alternatives, and some are often available. Primarily these would be potato products, but we can provide rice or gluten-free bread upon request.
While dishes tend not to contain nuts, we cannot guarantee they are nut-free, as all foods are prepared in environments where nuts may be present.
Besides cheeses, pork-based products are heavily featured. If pork is unsuitable, please message us, and we will offer tasty alternatives.
Ploughman’s lunches, by definition, are not vegan. However, please contact us to discuss potential alternatives.

Get a ticket and let your creativity flourish, your taste buds will thank you for it.

Summer Special - Our Unlimited Ploughman’s Buffet with Wiltshire’s Finest Foods
2025-07-19 12:00 - 15:00 | The Royal Oak, Pewey, 35 North St, Pewsey, Wiltshire, SN9 5ES, United Kingdom
Make and Enjoy Your Perfect Ploughman’s Lunch with Our Ploughman’s Buffet
Take me to the tickets
Summer is afoot, so let’s crank it up a notch!
Midsummer is here – so lets celebrate the holiday season with the finest foods…… Harvest is started, so lets celebrate the seasons with a nice feast of our favourites.
Right. What’s on? Besides the crowd-pleaser – a massive block of Somerset mature cheddar – there will be an array of Wiltshire, Somerset and Dorset Cheeses. There will be some more of unusual cheeses from Wiltshire and the surrounding counties. If you are a connoisseur or just like a massive slab of the best of the west, we have something for all. Cheeses including Wiltshire Loaf, Avebury (think Wiltshire Brie) and others from Brinkworth Dairy. Assorted cheeses from Lyburn, Camembert from Cricket St. Thomas, and many others confirmed nearer the date.
And as always, the award winning, super-local most amazing bread from Marshall’s Bakery. See how many Wiltshire Marque accredited products you can sample.
So, celebrate the best of local foods by creating your own perfect Ploughman’s.
Select from a plentiful supply of the finest ingredients: sample the bread, cheeses, ham, chutneys, and relishes. Enjoy fresh creamy butter, pies, pickles, and pâté. See what you like, and go back to craft your perfect Ploughman’s. Then maybe a bit more after…
A Roaming the Paths event proudly hosted by The Royal Oak in Pewsey in association with ploughmans-lunch.co.uk.
Local and Proud!
It’s time to celebrate the beautiful bounty produced by the glorious Wiltshire countryside. A delightful selection of local produce awaits:
– **Bread** from Marshall’s Bakery – including a special bread made exclusively for these events.*
– **Cheeses** from Wiltshire and Somerset, including local specialities, mature Cheddars, Somerset Brie, Dorset Red, and Vinny.
– **Triple Wiltshire Ham** – Wiltshire-grown, Wiltshire-cured, and cooked fresh at The Royal Oak for the occasion. This is the ham you dream about.
– **Brave Chutney and Tracklements Pickles.**
– **Freshly made pies and sausage rolls.**
– **A variety of local butters** from Wiltshire and Somerset.
There’s No Limit to Your Creativity
Tables will be laden with delights, and we encourage you to be as creative or specific as you like. Help yourself to as much or as little as you fancy – just don’t let it go to waste.
Your ticket gains you entry to the venue, and after that, it’s all yours. No need for a pyramidal plate – just revisit and refresh to find the perfect combination.
Unsure if you’ll like something? Start with a sampling plate, then return to create your perfect Ploughman’s lunch.
Get Your Ticket Now and Bring a Friend Along Too
Grab the early bird offer to guarantee your place at the table. Updates will be posted on Ploughman’s Lunch.

* Allergens, Food Intolerances, and Dietary Requirements
We can offer gluten-free alternatives, and some are often available. Primarily, these would be potato products, but we can provide rice or gluten-free bread upon request.
While dishes tend not to contain nuts, we cannot guarantee they are nut-free, as all foods are prepared in environments where nuts may be present.
Besides cheeses, pork-based products are heavily featured. If pork is unsuitable, please message us, and we will offer tasty alternatives.
Ploughman’s lunches, by definition, are not vegan. However, please contact us to discuss potential alternatives.

Get a ticket and let your creativity flourish; your taste buds will thank you for it.

Carnival! Our Unlimited Ploughman’s Buffet with Wiltshire’s Finest Foods
2025-09-06 12:00 - 15:00 | The Royal Oak, Pewey, 35 North St, Pewsey, Wiltshire, SN9 5ES, United Kingdom
Make and Enjoy Your Perfect Ploughman’s Lunch with Our Ploughman’s Buffet
Take me to the tickets
Carnival is upon us, so let’s fortify ourselves for the festivities with the best of the west.
A small donation of £1.00 from each ticket bought will be donated to Pewsey Carnival. Fundraising is vital to keep this tradition going (ever more costly) and profits are donated to local charities and good causes.
Right. What’s on? Besides the crowd-pleaser – a massive block of Somerset mature cheddar – there will be an array of Wiltshire, Somerset and Dorset Cheeses. There will be some of the more unusual cheeses from Wiltshire and the surrounding counties. We have something for all if you are a connoisseur or just like a massive slab of the best of the west. Cheeses including Wiltshire Loaf, Avebury (think Wiltshire Brie) and others from Brinkworth Dairy. Assorted cheeses from Lyburn, Camembert from Cricket St. Thomas, and many others confirmed nearer the date.
And as always, the award-winning, super-local, most amazing bread from Marshall’s Bakery. See how many Wiltshire Marque-accredited products you can sample.
So, celebrate the best of local foods by creating your own perfect Ploughman’s.
Select from a plentiful supply of the finest ingredients: sample the bread, cheeses, ham, chutneys, and relishes. Enjoy fresh creamy butter, pies, pickles, and pâté. See what you like, and go back to craft your perfect Ploughman’s. Then maybe a bit more after…
A Roaming the Paths event proudly hosted by The Royal Oak in Pewsey in association with ploughmans-lunch.co.uk.
Local and Proud!
It’s time to celebrate the beautiful bounty produced by the glorious Wiltshire countryside. A delightful selection of local produce awaits:
– **Bread** from Marshall’s Bakery – including a special bread made exclusively for these events.*
– **Cheeses** from Wiltshire and Somerset, including local specialities, mature Cheddars, Somerset Brie, Dorset Red, and Vinny.
– **Triple Wiltshire Ham** – Wiltshire-grown, Wiltshire-cured, and cooked fresh at The Royal Oak for the occasion. This is the ham you dream about.
– **Brave Chutney and Tracklements Pickles.**
– **Freshly made pies and sausage rolls.**
– **A variety of local butters** from Wiltshire and Somerset.
There’s No Limit to Your Creativity
Tables will be laden with delights, and we encourage you to be as creative or specific as you like. Help yourself to as much or as little as you fancy – just don’t let it go to waste.
Your ticket gains you entry to the venue, and after that, it’s all yours. No need for a pyramidal plate – just revisit and refresh to find the perfect combination.
Unsure if you’ll like something? Start with a sampling plate, then return to create your perfect Ploughman’s lunch.
Get Your Ticket Now and Bring a Friend Along Too
Grab the early bird offer to guarantee your place at the table. Updates will be posted on Ploughman’s Lunch.

* Allergens, Food Intolerances, and Dietary Requirements
We can offer gluten-free alternatives, and some are often available. Primarily, these would be potato products, but we can provide rice or gluten-free bread upon request.
While dishes tend not to contain nuts, we cannot guarantee they are nut-free, as all foods are prepared in environments where nuts may be present.
Besides cheeses, pork-based products are heavily featured. If pork is unsuitable, please message us, and we will offer tasty alternatives.
Ploughman’s lunches, by definition, are not vegan. However, please contact us to discuss potential alternatives.

Get a ticket and let your creativity flourish; your taste buds will thank you for it.

Pewsey Litter Pick - January
2026-01-03 10:30 - 12:00 | Bouverie Hall / North Street Car Park, Pewsey, Bouverie Hall / North Street Car Park, Pewsey, Wiltshire, SN9 5EQ, United Kingdom
Pewsey Litter Pick – 1st Saturday of the Month
(Free – Community Event).
Enjoy helping keep Pewsey’s paths and public spaces clean, meeting local walkers and volunteers, and making a real difference in your local area.

To Quote a fine gentleman of the village – who has retired from running the litter pick. The litter pick goes on:

“Good people of Pewsey.

The most exciting time of the month is coming up, the First Saturday Village Litter Pick.

Just for clarity this will be held on 03/01/2026

Please note start time of 10:30

All the usuals:
Meet in Bouverie Hall car park at 10:30 AM this coming Saturday
All kit will be supplied, pickers, hoops, bags. Please bring your own gloves.
All ages and capabilities are more than welcome
If you already have kit please bring it down.

Possibility of meeting for a drink after at one of the villages fine establishments.

(Thanks to the Pewsey Parish Council for helping to supply our litter pick kit.)“

Any questions – Message me

Pewsey Litter Pick - February
2026-02-07 10:30 - 12:00 | Bouverie Hall / North Street Car Park, Pewsey, Bouverie Hall / North Street Car Park, Pewsey, Wiltshire, SN9 5EQ, United Kingdom
Pewsey Litter Pick – 1st Saturday of the Month
(Free – Community Event).
Enjoy helping keep Pewsey’s paths and public spaces clean, meeting local walkers and volunteers, and making a real difference in your local area.

To Quote a fine gentleman of the village – who has retired from running the litter pick. The litter pick goes on:

“Good people of Pewsey.

The most exciting time of the month is coming up, the First Saturday Village Litter Pick.

Just for clarity this will be held on 07/02/2026

Please note start time of 10:30

All the usuals:
Meet in Bouverie Hall car park at 10:30 AM this coming Saturday
All kit will be supplied, pickers, hoops, bags. Please bring your own gloves.
All ages and capabilities are more than welcome
If you already have kit please bring it down.

Possibility of meeting for a drink after at one of the villages fine establishments.

(Thanks to the Pewsey Parish Council for helping to supply our litter pick kit.)“

Any questions – Message me

Half Term Special - Getting to know your spring weeds
2026-02-16 10:00 - 12:00 | Pewsey Heritage Centre, Avonside Works, Pewsey, Wiltshire, SN9 5AF, United Kingdom
A botanical exploration for Children
A spring walk for curious minds of all ages
Take me to the tickets
“Fillet of a fenny snake,
In the cauldron boil and bake.
Eye of newt and toe of frog,
Wool of bat and tongue of dog,”

What really went into the lotions and potions of olden times?
Join us for a family-friendly journey of discovery, where imagination, folklore and real plants come together. Spring is the moment when the countryside bursts back into life — and almost every plant you see has a story to tell. Some were used for healing, some for food, some for magic, and some… best left alone.
Ever wondered what “eye of newt” actually was? You might be surprised.
A walk that fascinates children — and adults too
Led by Mike Atkinson-Willis of Walking Wiltshire, this gentle village walk is designed to spark curiosity in children while offering plenty to interest adults. Mike brings deep knowledge of plants, their traditional uses, folklore, and history, presented in an engaging, accessible way that invites questions and conversation.
This is not a lecture — it’s a shared exploration. Expect stories, surprises, and moments of discovery hiding in plain sight.
Each child will receive a simple spotter guide to help identify some of the plants we encounter.
What to expect
Spring is unpredictable — and that’s part of the magic. Every walk is different. We’ll explore whatever is putting on its best show that day, learning how plants have been used for:

medicine
food and flavouring
household uses
folklaw, legend and belief

All within the village itself — proving just how much nature is woven into everyday places.
Route and accessibility
The walk starts outside the Pewsey Heritage Centre and follows the River Avon upstream, crossing Broomcroft Road into the Scotchel. Time permitting, we may continue towards Buckleaze Mill before returning.

Suitable for most children
Pushchairs, prams and strollers should be manageable
Not suitable for scooters or bikes (this is a slow amble)
The route follows the river — it is safe, but adult supervision is essential

All children must be accompanied by an adult and remain their responsibility throughout.
Is it right for you?
We aim to be inclusive, but we won’t claim this walk suits everyone.
If you have questions about access, mobility, or suitability, please get in touch — we’re very happy to talk things through. If you have an assistant, advocate or carer, they are welcome to attend free of charge (contact us after booking).
Where helpful, we can also meet in advance to walk the route together.
Your feedback helps us improve access to the countryside for everyone.
On the day
Mike from Walking Wiltshire leads the walk, with Roaming the Paths providing support.
We’ll move at a relaxed pace, stopping often — because it won’t take long before something catches the eye and deserves closer inspection.

Book your place for a thoroughly enjoyable spring walk — and discover the hidden power of some of our most common, and often overlooked, plant companions.
