Across Salisbury Plain and 'On the Buses'

Another chance to trek across Salisbury Plain and visit the 'lost village of Imber' where the residents were evicted just before Christmas in 1943 to allow army training in advance of D-Day. 


Salisbury plain is one of the largest wild places in southern UK and includes areas of special scientific interest and many square miles of open countryside with a variety of habitats, and much wildlife including the only colony of Great Bustards in the UK. The Plain and village of Imber remains in use for army training purposes but the principle roads are open to the public a few days each year. On this particular day there's also a fleet of vintage Routemaster buses providing scenic rides; very out of place from their original city roads.

The walking route planned this year is a linear one taking you through the heart of the plain both within and along the edge of the military area and passing various ancient earthworks and burial sites etc. It will terminate at the remote village of Tilshead which has a pretty pub, and the fun and nostalgic classic bus service will be used to access both the start and end points, giving plenty of opportunity to view the landscape from the upper deck. The return journey will take you back to Warminster.

IMPORTANT INFORAMATION.
*Access to Salisbury Plain is strictly controlled. You MUST NOT wander off onto trails, but must stay on the road with the group.
*There will be contingency plans in place should the buses be full or cancelled.
*Although it can be a windy and slightly desolate place at around 400' ASL
*We may walk quite fast at times; please be aware of the need to keep pace with the group so we connect with the bus. 
*The route is on tarmac, concrete and loose stones and dirt, which may be muddy after rain. Some parts are shared with vehicles.
*If you suffer from hayfever or bee sting allergies etc please ensure you have adequate medication.
*There are no shops and there’s nowhere to get water. The only toilet is a portaloo at Imber Church, but there are occassional bushes! 
*Access to the buildings in Imber other than the Church is strictly forbidden and could be dangerous. Any persons who disregard this advice may be reported to military personnel, and put at risk the entire public opening.
*The MOD are at liberty to cancel access for reasons of army training. This rarely happens, but if it did, we will take an alternative route from Warminster of approx 9 miles, and following the perimeter trail with some great views. 
*Although the MOD do not restrict access for dogs, bringing dogs is not recommended for safety reasons. They may be at risk from un-exploded devices should they chase wildlife, and from passing vehicles.
* There is no Mobile phone signal on most of the plain.
*There are plenty of places to eat and drink at Warminster afterwards, for anyone waiting for onward trains.