Signposted from Swindon station, designated cycle paths and a couple of short links on minor roads take you to the popular Coate Water Park and the start of the trail proper.
Coate Water Country Park has a 56-acre reservoir and in the 1970s a smaller lake was created which was made Wiltshire’s first Local Nature Reserve in 1976.
Most of the site and all the water have been declared a Site of Specific Scientific Interest (SSSI) in order to protect the wildlife and wildflower meadows.
The route continues through the park and then crosses the M4 on a concrete helter-skelter.
You then follow the old Swindon to Marlborough railway line through a glorious oak wood, famous for its bluebells in late spring, towards Chiseldon.
The village of Chiseldon still has visible signs of its ancient roots.
It is overlooked by the Iron Age earthwork that is all that remains of Liddington Castle, and it is linked to the Ridgeway, possibly Britain's earliest road.
South of Chiseldon, the railway path can be followed on to Marlborough, although it can be rough in places.
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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.