The northern escarpment of the North Downs between Ladle Hill and White Hill forms part of theWayfarer’s Walk long distance path, and give far-reaching views across to Beacon Hill in the west and the countryside south of Newbury to the north. Visible migration can be seen here in autumn with numbers of Swallows and martins passing over, good flocks of Meadow Pipits and the occasional Curlew on the cultivated fields. In the valley to the south, the sparsely populated area known as Ashley Warren can be good for farmland birds and is well worth exploring the public footpaths and lanes. A Great Grey Shrike was well watched here in the winter of 2012. Approach via the minor road south from Old Burghclere and Sydmonton, and park on the verge at the top for Watership Down. Continue south for Ashley Warren.

Grid Reference: SU492567