I rode a large section of the Imber Range perimeter path a few weeks ago and it was really tremendous. I’m looking forward to going back in the summer when the whole range is open – from 1800hrs on Friday 17th August through to 0800hrs on Friday 24th August.

But I’m wondering where to go. Looking at an OS map just shows me a whole network of paths, but specifically I’d like to ride on some tank tracks, and we defo need to see some tanks. I’ll obviously take in Imber village itself, but does anyone have any tips or route ideas?

You can’t leave the main carriageway/public rights of way wallop I’m afraid.  Personally I think that starting from the Warminster side gives you opportunities for (abandoned) tank spotting, that will take you to Imber village.  Refreshments available from the church, more info here:

http://www.imberchurch.org.uk/

You can ride a huge loop as the Eastern side (Larkhill) is fully open to the public on non-firing days.  Worth riding the RoW that crosses Larkhill from South to East (Redhorn Hill).

Will send you a PM later with some ideas.

Ah thanks C_G! It’d be good to know how you access Imber Village when it’s open, seeing as there are no pink lines on the OS map in that area. I’m not sure how you’d work out which tracks are permitted access.

Is there somewhere that explains what’s allowable and what isn’t, and when? I’ve been up there a few times, and tend to err on the side of caution…

I was under the impression pretty much everything was off limits. The central roads are open and you can walk round the village. The only building that is open is the church. On the open days they tend have lots of soldiers and cadets around IIRC so you can’t do much that is cheeky. I used to live nearby and we used to ride it on quiet, non active days. Easier to get off the path then although we did get a full military escort off once. You can either err on the side caution or ride were you like and plead ignorance if caught. There’s a few tanks just off the main road and more dotted around

Oooh, thanks for the reminder.  I hope to see you up there, C_G!

Could you also send me that Info too please C_G?

Very important: here’s a link to the firing times which you should always consult beforehand.  Rights of Way will always be closed when there is firing.

The Imber Range Perimeter Path is open access but not all of it is bridleway.  For example you could start at Westbury White Horse where there’s a large car park, continue to the A360, cross over and continue to Casterley Camp.  If there’s no firing then continue on this track which heads South.  Easy to pop into Netheravon where there’s a pub and a convenience store.  Alternatively continue on this track to Larkhill.  Head for the Bustard Inn (no longer a pub) and continue North on a RoW which cuts across the middle of the firing area, this takes you to Redhorn Hill.  Amazing views, real feeling of remoteness and rusting tanks to be seen.

When you reach the A360 walk along the grass to the Robber’s Stone which is a memorial.  Cross over to a RoW (not the Imber Path) through The Warren and continue pass the transmitter.  At the junction turn L on the Wessex Ridgeway by Strawberry Hill and continue up to the ridge.  Turn R to go back to the White Horse.

https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/27468/SalisburyPlain.pdf

When Imber Range is open the access points are White Horse Westbury (not suitable for cars), Gore Cross (on the A360), Warminster and Heytesbury (unsuitable for cars).

Important!!  When Imber village is open please do not enter into buildings apart from the church, we don’t want to see access to Imber jeopardised.  There are security patrols now.

The church is worth a visit and there are displays detailing the history together with documents from the War Office.  Sometimes there are bell ringers which is great to hear.  Refreshments are available namely tea, coffee, hot chocolate and squash plus biscuits.  There is no running water, gas or electricity here!

In August the Imber Bus will be running although the date hasn’t yet been confirmed.  Here’s last year’s info:

https://imberbus.wordpress.com/

There’s also public access to the area between Chitterne and Shrewton together with East of the River Avon although some has live firing the closer you get to Bulford.

Hope this makes sense!

Thank you – that’s brilliant!

Oops, forgot the link re firing times:

https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/713146/20180601-SPTA_Firing_Times_Jun_2018.csv/preview

wallop and mobes – you both have PMs.

Esme – hoping to catch up with you, please keep me posted on when you’re in Wiltshire.

If the PM information is different to your post (which is incredibly helpful….!) can I also have it? Pleeease?

Thanks for the PM 🙂

Thanks for the PM! Much appreciated.