Pea Bridge to Shawfields

Distance 2.1/4 miles

1. From Pea Bridge follow path on north bank of River and after housing take unsurfaced path between the crematorium and River.

2. At Aldershot Park continue on north bank of river passing trim trail. Alternatively, follow path along south bank of river through Tongham Nursery.

Tongham Nursery was worked for gravel in 1993/5 to supply the minerals for the Blackwater Valley Relief Road. Prior to gravel extraction the site revealed evidence of Prehistoric, Roman and Medieval settlements. Five Iron Age settlements were found, with water holes and had remained waterlogged so preserving a number of artefacts including a 2nd century BC brooch, planks, stakes and a ladder carved from a single oak log.

The site is now being restored as an area with public access and features for nature conservation. The shallow lake margins are ideal for wildfowl and various water plants and the site is also used by damselflies and dragonflies.

3. Cross River on the bridge opposite pedestrian underpass, turn left, to follow River.

4. At main road turn right towards roundabout and cross the road at marked crossing point. Busy road crossing, please take care.

5. Safely on the other side, bear right then take access track on left to rejoin riverside path.

The path at this point has recently been resurfaced and marks the beginning of the multi-user sections in the south.

6. Take second footbridge over River, just before the end of Shawfields.

7. At path junction turn right to cross back over River then immediately left to follow riverbank towards the Basingstoke Canal Aqueduct.

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View the next section of the Blackwater Valley Path - Shawfields to Hollybush Pits