It’s not often that we’re critical of the route adopted by the Thames Path. But there’s one section that we think could have been planned a little better. And that’s the section from Nosworthy Way, just past Wallingford, all the way to Goring and Streatley.
The Thames Path follows the right bank all the way to Streatley. Unfortunately, just past Moulsford Railway Bridge, the ancient tow path crosses to the other side, rejoining at the Beetle and Wedge, just past Moulsford. As the ferries have long since gone, the Thames Path diverts through the village of Moulsford, following the A329 for 0.8 miles. before rejoining the river at the Beetle and Wedge for the remaining few miles.
The Ridgeway, also a National Trail which roughly follows a south-west to north-east direction, intersects the Thames Path at Goring and Streatley and follows the left bank of the Thames, almost as far as Wallingford, before heading east through the Chilterns.
It is therefore perfectly possible to cross the river at Nosworthy Way, and follow the Ridgeway all the way to Goring, thus avoiding the Moulsford road walk. There are other advantages too: at Mongewell you can visit the church of St John the Baptist, standing alone amongst the ruins of Carmel College, a former Jewish boys school; and the golf course on your left was once owned by Deep Purple’s Ian Gillan, the hotel swimming pool being made in the shape of a guitar; and North Stoke is worthy of any postcard.
From North Stoke the Ridgeway works its way to Littlestoke, a point directly opposite Ferry Lane which leads to Cholsey. This is the point where the tow path crosses to the left bank and the Ridgeway utilises it all the way past Moulsford to opposite the Beetle and Wedge. Rail enthusiasts will not be disappointed with the view of Moulsford Railway Bridge.
A short diversion from the river takes you to South Stoke, as pretty as its neighbour to the north, and blessed with a pub: the Perch and Pike. The Ridgeway then follows a high line between the river and the railway affording good views. Although some road walking is required as you approach Goring, it is entirely residential and pleasant. Some of the gardens are quite spectacular. The Ridgeway delivers you right into the heart of Goring.
Impact on Distance
The difference in distance is negligible. We calculated it was an extra 0.1 miles!
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