Next event 7th May 2011 (The full 2010 results and event report now available for download)

THE ROUTE is 40 miles across the chalk downs between Overton Hill (Grid Ref (GR): SU119681) on the A4 approximately four and a half miles west of Marlborough (Wilts) and Streatley Youth Hostel (YH) (Berks) (GR: SU592806). Apart from a slight variation between Barbury Castle and Whitefield Hill, the route follows the ancient track known as the Ridgeway and way-marked as the Ridgeway. Ordnance Survey maps 173 and 174 (1:50,000 series) cover the walk. See map. THE OBJECT is to complete the 40 mile route on foot in one go. The walk is not a race although entrants in the walk can run if they wish. AT THE FINISH, check in at the annexe on the right at the top of the approach to the YH. If you go into the YH itself, please remember to remove your outdoor footwear. EVERY ENTRANT should bring a plastic beaker and indicate on the entry form that they are doing so. Alternatively, you can order a mug on the entry form though we may not be able to do this for entries made less than three weeks before the walk. The mug will be given to you at CP 1 on the day of the walk. YOU ARE ALSO ADVISED TO TAKE WITH YOU: some food and drink, maps, torch, compass, first aid kit, a high factor sun tan cream, appropriate footwear and protective clothing (NB the Ridgeway is very exposed and it can get very cold if it rains and / or is windy - see comments under “Care and Safety” overleaf), and 20p coins for phone calls, unless you have a mobile phone with credit and a charged battery. FACILITIES AND REFRESHMENTS: There are toilets at CP 1. Shortly after CP 1, you pass the Castle Café (if you go in, you are advised not to linger too long). Otherwise, there are no toilets, shops or places to eat on the route. However, it is planned to have mobile toilets at two or more locations. The Shepherds Rest at 14.5 miles was closed in 2008 and in now an Indian Restaurant (Burj), the check point (CP3) being now located at Fox Hill Car Park some 300 meters further on. There are water points at Castle Cafe just after CP 1 (7 miles), at 17 miles (Idstone Barn, GR 264835, about a mile beyond Ridgeway Farm) and a few hundred yards before CP 5 (23 miles). Although you are advised to carry food and drink with you, the entry fee includes light refreshments at most CPs; tea may be provided at one CP and water / squash at all other CPs except the start. Tea and cake will be available at the finish. INJURY OR LOSS: participation is entirely at the entrant's risk CERTIFICATES, RESULTS, BADGES AND AWARDS: Individual certificates will be awarded to all those who complete the walk. Team certificates will be awarded to teams with 3 or more finishers. Each starter will receive a report of the results. Badges will be on sale for £2 each at the finish and there are various other badges and awards for walkers who have successfully completed more than one Ridgeway Walk. TRANSPORT: A coach will leave Streatley YH for the start at 06.45 on Saturday, 8 May. The cost of a seat is £6.50. If you need a seat, please book (using the entry form) as soon as possible and no later than Thursday, 22 April. (Deadline will be strictly adhered to) PARKING: None at the Streatley YH but there are public car parks within a mile of the YH and in nearby streets. A map of the area showing the location of parking will be sent to you with the acknowledgement of your entry. See our maps page for more information. Please do not park in any pub car park unless you have the landlord's permission. Wherever you park, please observe the Highway Code and do not park in front of driveways or opposite other parked vehicles, ACCOMMODATION: Ridgeway walkers, whether or not they are members of the YHA, can stay overnight at Streatley YH (Friday, 7 May and Saturday, 8 May). See the accommodation page for further details of youth hostel hostel details and charges. Early booking is advisable as the hostel has only 48 beds, some of which have to be reserved for marshals. POST WALK MEAL: A meal can be provided by the Streatley YH and is a good way to sit, unwind, relax and discuss your adventure with friends and family. Complete the Streatley YHA Accommodation Packed Lunches / Evening Meal request form if you wish to have food provided. Spaces are limited so you will need to book early to avoid disappointment.