Living in the UK, we’re used to the rain, but when it interrupts our weekend walk, it can prove problematic. However, there’s one picturesque walk that has been proven to offer the highest chance of blistering sunshine and the lowest chance of rain – and it’s a yes from us!

Stretching across southern England and along meandering chalk paths is The Ridgeway, commonly known as Britain’s oldest road. This charming walking route, between Overton Hill, near Avebury in Wiltshire and Ivinghoe Beacon in Buckinghamshire, has been in use for at least 5,000 years.

Walkers, traders, soldiers, and herdsmen are said to have travelled along The Ridgeway throughout the years, as it once provided a dependable route from the Dorset coast to the Wash on the Norfolk coast. The ancient track passes through diverse landscapes of valleys and woodland, often a far distance from the civilisations of villages or towns.

Yet, it’s 87 miles (140 km) of majestic landscapes and charming countryside views are something that have long been admired, and it’s remained a popular route for avid ramblers. The track also passes near fascinating Neolithic, Iron Age and Bronze Age sites, including the Avebury Stone Circle, Barbury Castle, Liddington Castle, Segsbury Castle, and Uffington White Horse, the prehistoric chalk horse carved into the hill that spans 400 feet.

Among its ancient sites and mesmerising landmarks, The Ridgeway offers the least rainfall, the longest hours of sunshine, and excellent drainage, according to research by Celtic Trails Walking Holidays. The travel experts analysed rainfall, sunshine, wind speed, and rainy days across the UK’s most popular long-distance walks, and found that the ancient chalk track was the sunniest place for a walk in Britain, perfect!

Many walkers have taken advantage of the dry, enjoyable walk away from the rain and have shared their experiences at various points along the route. One rambler shared on TripAdvisor: “The walk to see Wayland Smithy is so worth it. It is a beautiful place so atmospheric. The walk up to White Horse Hill is a lovely walk, thoroughly recommend it.”

“Great hike, amazing wildlife, flowers and flora. Walked part of the Ridgeway with friends and enjoyed every step of the way,” a second commented.

Another rode along the track as they recalled: “My friend and I rode the full length of the Ridgeway, starting in West Kennet and picking up the Swan Way and Icknield Way riders’ route east of Streatley, where the Ridgeway itself becomes a footpath. We averaged 18 – 20 miles per day, which was a nice, easy pace, allowing time for sightseeing. Our total mileage was 103. It is a lovely ride with stunning scenery and little roadwork. We found horse-friendly B&Bs along the route, which meant we had to carry less gear. Highly recommend!”

Hikers can start at any point along The Ridgeway, and walk for as little or as much as they like, knowing the weather is on their side. Plus, what better way to explore some of the country’s most ancient sites, and say you’ve walked along Britain’s oldest road.

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