Avon Valley Walk, Loddiswell
OS Map OL20. If you feel that there is nothing to match a woodland run beside a beautiful river, then you cannot fail to enjoy this lovely 5 mile stretch along the Avon Valley near Loddiswell.
Park at OS Map ref 728483, the Avon Mill Garden Centre, and then decide whether or not you feel in the mood for a very steep hill. If so, turn right out of the car park and slog up one of Devon's steepest as far as the track on the right towards Cloverwell Farm. Just off the road take the green lane on your left towards Ham Butts. At the junction, turn right towards Reads farm. It is easy to miss the entrance to the footpath on your right, but if you find yourself in the farmyard, turn around and you will see it below you.
Stick to the path and you will soon be running along the river before joining the dismantled railway line. No need for your map at this point, just keep going until you reach the lovely Topsham Bridge, which is sheer Devon heaven. Sit on the bridge and look out for the peacocks.
Run back the way you came but stick to the eastern side of the riverbank all the way to the old Loddiswell station. Continue a short distance on the country lane before turning right and crossing the bridge back to Avon Mill Garden Centre for buttered crumpets or sausages and mash with onion gravy. You might also want to check out the deli for later.
