The Anton and Test Rivers Ramble (The ATRR)
This series of seventeen traditional caches takes you on a
lovely circular walk taking in the villages of Goodworth Clatford,
Fullerton and Chilbolton and generally follows the course of the
River Anton to near the point where it meets the River Test.
The walk is about 6.2 miles long (10 km) so allow about 4 hours
depending on your pace and how accurate my co-ordinates are! It
follows public footpaths for the vast majority of the way. The only
roads you need to walk on are usually very quiet except for a small
stretch of the A3057 that you need to use, in order to cross a
bridge over the River Test to reach the Mayfly Pub for a break in
your journey (recommended).
The walk can be hilly in places but nothing too strenuous. The
paths are generally good but there are some bumpy and muddy
patches. The route is unsuitable for wheelchair users and
buggies.
Places you will visit:
Goodworth Clatford This village has two pubs and a Post
Office Store where you may stock up for your journey.
Fullerton Here you will walk along the course of the old
Andover to Redbridge railway line which closed in 1964. You will
actually walk along the platform of Fullerton station!
Sections of your walk will be on the “Test Way” long
distance path.
There is also a traditional cache near the route:
The Cockatrice
With permission of the owner, the circuit incorporates
“Well
Well Wherwell” which becomes #12 on the route.
Where to start
The recommended starting point is in Goodworth Clatford. You can
generally park anywhere in the village. I suggest you park on the
village street where there is usually plenty of space. Whilst there
are car parks near cache #9 and Chilbolton Common, these can get
busy. The Mayfly pub respectfully ask that people don't use their
car park to park when people are off walking as it gets very
busy.
I hope you enjoy the series.