Ouse Valley Way 1: from Eaton Socon
Route facts
Waterways:
River Great Ouse »
Distance: 4.5 miles / 7.2km
Duration: 2.5 hours
Starts at: Eaton Socon
Ends at: Little Paxton
This route is part of the Ouse Valley Way which is 26 miles / 41.6km along the River Great Ouse and the countryside surrounding it. The route can be broken up into shorter, circular walks, with this one being the first. You will need to be careful near the locks and gravel pits as they are deep and are not suitable for swimming. Trousers and long sleeves are recommended as there can be giant hogweed in the area, which causes serious rashes.
This section of the Ouse Valley Way takes you through the quaint villages of Eaton Socon, St Neots and Little Paxton. There are places to stop for refreshments along the way; The River Mill Tavern in Eaton Socon, take-away cafe at Roverside Park and also pubs and shops in Eaton Socon, St Neots and Little Paxton. The waymarkings along the way are green with yellow arrows.
Getting there
Parking: There is parking available in the village of Eaton Socon, Riverside Park in St Neots, near the bridge in Little Paxton opposite Lammas Meadow and Paxton Pits Nature Reserve
Public transport: There is a regular bus service between Little Paxton, St Neots and Eaton Socon. The nearest train station is in St Neots.
Waypoints
1. Eaton Socon to St Neots (1 mile / 1.6km)
to go up the steps) towards St Neots. The town has a wonderful market square and also some splendid medieval buildings.
2. St Neots to Little Paxton (3.5 miles / 5.6km)
before the entrance to the reserve. To continue along the walk, follow the path through the kissing gate, passing some gravel pits on your left. Here, the track bends sharply to the left and there will be waymark on your right. Continue along the grassy track by the river for about a mile before reaching some moorings on your right. If you want to continue along the Ouse Valley Way, go to Ouse Valley Way: Part 2.
3. Little Paxton to Eaton Socon (4 1/4 miles / 6.8km)
bends left, eventually bringing you to charming stream. Follow the path around to Eaton Socon Lock and the start of the walk.
Other stages
Ouse Valley Way 1: from Eaton Socon
Ouse Valley Way 2: from Little Paxton »
Ouse Valley Way 3: from Buckden Marina »
Ouse Valley Way 4: from Godmanchester »
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