stanton

The walk

This is a pleasant walk, partly on very quiet roads, then byway, then some modest field crossing. In the latter part of that, between points 2 and 3 (map), the path may be overgrown (go right of trees after stile). After 3 there is small field with possible cattle – no problem on our trip but if you want to avoid these things, the parallel road alternative is a possibility. It is narrow in places but fairly little traffic. As always, take care. Honeystreet and the canal is a treat. Also, if its a hot day, much of the path route is well shaded. 

You can expect to enjoy the Pewsey scenery. Milk Hill provides the background to the village. It is the highest point in Wiltshire and part of the Pewsey Downs (26 cms higher than Tan Hill as it happens), and the second highest point between London and Bristol. This is a rolling set of chalk grassland hills stretching between Devizes and Pewsey, which are a very prominent part of this landscape. You can’t miss the 1812 Alton Barnes white horse (second largest of the Wiltshire horses and based on the one at Cherhill). It was re-chalked in 2019 with 49 tonnes of chalk.

Stanton village

The walk starts at the parish church.  It dates from the 13^th century but in 1831 the larger part of the building was reconstructed – except for the tower (which is 15^th century).  There is also a Norman font. All the furnishings are Victorian.  However, what you will be struck by is the 1900 Arts and Crafts wall painting above the chancel arch. It is said that the angels may represent local people (one of them on the North side is a self-portrait). On the North wall there is an unusual war memorial (open its doors for a look)

There is a Village Hall nearby: this was once the village school (closed in 1969). Between 1936 and 1947 the fields between the village and Alton Barnes were a grass landing ground for training World War II pilots. Now it is better known as a site of crop circles.  You can see impressions of these here and here and here. Like many Wiltshire villages there is a locally-maintained community website that tells you a little more about what goes on here.

Honeystreet

Honeystreet appears about two-thirds of the way into the walk and is a very pleasant opportunity for a refreshment break. That might involve the Barge Inn with a good selection of food and drink and a sizable outdoor seating area next to the canal. Or if you prefer, after you have crossed the canal, there is the Mill café.  This has a particularly impressive selection of cakes, and also an outdoor seating area. The area that it is part of also has an interesting group of shops: including one with a large collection of exotic fabrics, ornaments and artefacts with a slightly 60’s hippy feel. And there is honeystreet handmade – a small business selling luxury Fairtrade bath and body products

Although possibly the most unexpected treat is a museum dedicated to crop circles (perhaps because Stanton has hosted some distinguished ones).  Some of it is free but there is an upstairs that is occasionally opened for expert guidance on the topic.