Roaming the Paths

Getting to know your spring weeds - Easter Holiday Special
2026-04-10 10:30 - 12:00 UTC | 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, young and old
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-Willes 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. There is the inevitable sticker.
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.
