Walking the historic Holybrook

This linear walk follows the Holybrook from its source in Theale to its confluence with the Thames at Reading Abbey, following the banks of the brook as closely as possible.    

Type of Walk
Healthy exercise - more walking/less talking

More detail
The brook is of historic importance as a mill stream, and this unique and secretive waterway has been hurrying through and under Reading for many centuries. The walk starts near its Arrowhead source in Theale, then follows the Kennet for a while, before rejoining the Holybrook east of the old Calcot Mill. It then follows the brook's course to the south of the town past Coley Park Farm. This part of the route is suprisingly tranquil and rural, and the walk does not become urban until it is within 1km of the town centre. The final stage of the walk traces the brook through the town centre, where it flows through culverts under the streets to reach the site of the old Abbey Mill near the confluence with the Kennet.

Walk length / difficulty / accessibility
11 km / 7 miles / 3 hours / medium / not wheelchair accessible

Ticket price
£3

About the walk leader
Steve Vale is Reading born and bred, has lived in the town for most of his life and is an experienced walk leader with Loddon Valley Ramblers. He has led walks for the Reading Walks Festival for the past 3 years.               

Getting there
Theale Station. Train or Reading Buses route 1 to the Crown PH in Theale, and then a 5-minute walk to Theale Station
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