North Wessex Downs Interview

We hear from Ann Shepley from the North Wessex Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty about how to find stunning views, lovely walks and beautiful landscapes within easy access of London. Watch the video to see what Ann had to say about the Great West Way, or read on below. 

"The North Wessex Downs is a particularly beautiful part of England. It's a protected landscape; an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. 

"Not only is it beautiful - and gives rise to these amazing views and fantastic places to visit - but also, it is globally significant because it is chalk downland. If you come here, you get to see beautiful countryside which you're not going to see anywhere else in the world.

"We're here on the Ridgeway which is a long distance path that runs the length of the North Wessex Downs. It is a fantastic place to walk. Throughout the landscape here there are hundreds of miles of public rights of way - so it is the perfect place for walkers and cyclists to come and visit. You're in a place which feels very isolated but really is not a great distance from London. It is very easy to get here by train, so it is perfect for people who are looking for the Great Outdoors. 

"The North Wessex Downs provides a beautiful backdrop to much of the Great West Way. If you're looking for classic English landscape, you're certainly going to find it here."

Inspired to visit this beautiful slice of English countryside during your Great West Way adventure? Discover more about the North Wessex Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.