Explore Redlynch through its paths and local history: woodland landscapes, named routes and traces of traditional crafts offer different perspectives on the village. When looking for accommodation, you can first decide whether walks and scenery or historical themes will be the focus of your stay.
Paths through woodland and countryside
Langley Wood is an extensive area of ancient oak woodland at the northern tip of the New Forest. Footpath 9 starts on Black Lane and passes through Langley Wood National Nature Reserve. After leaving Sandy Lane, Footpath 15 runs along the edge of Grove Copse. The two paths therefore offer different woodland experiences: Footpath 9 goes through the nature reserve, while Footpath 15 follows the edge of Grove Copse.
Other routes have their own points of reference. Footpath 10 connects Goggs Lane with Grove Lane. From Footpath 27, views extend across Morgan’s Vale towards Salisbury and the Downs above Downton. Footpath 28 starts at an access point from Slab Lane. When comparing paths, the road connection, access from Slab Lane and the views each offer different points of reference for your choice.
Bridleway 21 is considered a natural extension of a route that passes through Redlynch via Quavey Well. It is also considered a possible part of an old salt-trading route from Pennington and Lymington. This cautious historical interpretation links the route with a theme in local history without presenting the possible interpretation as certain.
Path conditions and practical guidance
The Hale & Woodgreen walk is a moderate hike with a few short, steep climbs. Its description also mentions gates, a footbridge and twelve cattle grids; the tracks can be muddy. These details can help you take both the difficulty level and obstacles into account. Check local conditions on the route before setting out.
Local history through buildings and crafts
The Church of St Mary in Redlynch is a Grade II listed building. The Butts also offers an opportunity to consider different aspects of the area’s history: in the Middle Ages, it was used as an archery practice ground. The Butts is also a small burial mound, or ancient burial site. Some people call it “Templeman’s Tump”; this name also appears on other maps.
Local history is also reflected in traditional trades. By 1700, lace-making in Redlynch had become a cottage industry. Broom-making was a traditional local trade that continued until the Second World War. Brickworks on the west side of Kiln Road and south of Hart Hill produced high-quality bricks for the fine 18th-century houses in Downton. Cottage industry, a trade that continued into the 20th century, and brick production for houses in Downton are therefore distinct parts of the region’s craft history.
The Redlynch & District Local History Society holds an annual exhibition where materials on local history are displayed and made available to visitors. It offers another way to explore the area’s history, complementing the themes of paths and buildings.
Discover more destinations: Corsham, Christian Malford, Edington, Ansty, Manningford Abbots, Limpley Stoke, Warminster, Steeple Ashton
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