National Route 403 crosses the North Wessex Downs and Savernake Forest, linking Chippenham to Marlborough and the Kennet & Avon Canal.
The route starts in Great Bedwyn and travels through the North Wessex Downs Area of Oustanding Natural Beauty which includes the 4,500-acre Savernake Forest. Running right through the middle of the Forest is Capability Brown's 'Grand Avenue'. This avenue of beech trees - now a Private Road - was laid out in the late 1790s, and at just over 4 miles long it stands in the Guinness Book of Records as the longest Avenue in Britain.
The route takes you through the lovely market town of Marlborough, that sits on the banks of the River Kennet, and out past Totterdown Woods. There is a short gap in the route coming out of Marlborough. From here the route passes Avebury and Calne before arriving in the bustling town of Chippenham. The route continues on to Lacock Abbey, Fox Talbot Museum and Village, a country house once home to William Henry Fox Talbot.
Travelling onto Melksham through the King George V Park the route arrives in Semington where it joins with Route 4 and the Kennet and Avon Canal.
Please note
We have taken all responsible steps to ensure that these routes are safe and achievable by people with a reasonable level of fitness. However, all outdoor activities involve a degree of risk. To the extent permitted by law, Sustrans accepts no responsibility for any accidents or injury resulting from following these routes. Walking and cycling routes change over time. Weather conditions may also affect path surfaces. Please use your own judgement when using the routes based upon the weather and the ability, experience and confidence levels of those in your group.
To make sure everyone gets the most out of their time by the water, please ensure that you follow the Towpath Code.