Historic Wallingford and Agatha Christie, 9.5 miles, easy

The 9.5-mile circular walk will allow exploration of Wallingford and the Agatha Christie trail.

This walk will be led by Paul.

Please see our website for more information about the group.

Pace: medium. Ascent: 72m.

Walk details

Leaving from Wallingford's Market Place, we will explore some of the history of the picturesque town of Wallingford, which goes back to the English Civil War. This will take us around some historical battlements including the remains of Wallingford Castle. We will then start on the Agatha Christie trail, starting with the recently-installed statue of the writer. The trail will take us past the house in which she lived the later part of her life, and then onto a trail she purportedly like to travel, next to the heritage railway line. It ends with a vist to Christie's final resting place in the village of Cholsey.

We will continue further into Cholsey, skirting the edge of the Berkshire Downs. This will lead us to Cholsey Meadows, where we will have lunch alongside the river Thames. After lunch we will continue along the Thames path, heading back toward Wallingford, taking in the scenery, atmosphere and wildlife of the Thames.

Travel details

By public transport

The River Rapids X40 leaving Reading Town Centre, Station Road at 09:35 will arrive in Wallingford at 10:22. Coming from Didcot, you can take 33 bus at 09:57 from Didcot, Parkway Station, which will arrive at Wallingford Market Place at 10:25. The walk will not start until after the arrival of both buses.

By car

There are a couple of car parks within a few minutes of the start of the walk (charges will probably apply). Please allow time to park, pay and get to the start point in time for the walk.

Notes

• Please bring a packed lunch and a drink.
• It might be muddy – please wear suitable footwear.
• Please contact the leader directly if you are delayed on the day or can't find the group (find contact details on our website). We are unlikely to respond to Meetup comments or messages sent on the day of the walk in enough time to be helpful.