This new long-distance path through the Wiltshire Downs from Barbury Castle (south of Swindon) to Old Sarum (north of Salisbury) is a history trail to top all history trails. In 36 miles the Great Stones Way passes the most important prehistoric sites in England Stonehenge and the Avebury Ring among them and can be extended to take in more, including Salisburys magnificent medieval cathedral. Described here in 6 stages of easy walking, the route strides across downs with wide-ranging views and meanders beside the tranquil River Avon, taking in picture-perfect villages, churches and cosy pubs. The route is accessible to most walkers and could be tackled in a leisurely week or a challenging long weekend, with a host of accommodation options nearby. optional detours are included to visit more ancient monuments, and start and finish in cities with better public transport links, to take the route up to 53 miles route can be linked with the Ridgeway National Trail at Avebury full information about the history and also about all the accommodation options and refreshment stops available along the way.