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CLASSIC EVENT

Are you aged at least 15½ ?

Nearly five years ago we removed some of the road walking and introduced more downland walking, maintaining the hike length at around 70km. The new route continues in 2008.

The Classic hike is open to anyone aged 15½ or over. There's no upper age limit. We don't care what sex, colour or creed you are. You just need to be reasonably fit. If you're under 15½ and serious about entering the Classic hike we will consider your application.

You don't even have to be a member of the Scout Association - we just ask you to confirm you have your own personal accident insurance. If you are a member of a recognised group then you will have insurance.

If you think this route is too long - take a look at the Explorer route. Click here for details.

ROUTE

The route is about 70km in length - or about 43-45 miles depending on how you walk. The route starts at Purley-on-Thames just west of Reading. You will actually be kit checked at 79th Reading Scout HQ in Tilehurst and bussed the short distance ready for the start. From there, you'll cross the Thames at Whitchurch Bridge and meander along the footpath towards Goring.

With the flat out of the way, it's back across the Thames and up and over Streatley hill before moving on to the Ridgeway via the Fairmile. You will then descend in to Blewbury village in Oxfordshire. From there, hikers will head back towards the ridgeway and will cross the A34 by underpass. East Hendred Down will be the next point of call. From there, it's due south to Catmore and then eastward to East Ilsley primary school. St John will be in attendance at this location.

On departing East Ilsley, hikers will head south across the downlands towards Hampstead Norreys visiting a number of checkpoints before descending into the woods at Ashampstead. Following on to Pangbourne College where once again St John Ambulance will be in assistance.

Leaving the college, hikers will descend into Sulham and then climb up Sulham hill to visit the Water Tower at Tilehurst. The final leg is downhill and back to 79th Reading HQ at Armour Hill.

Full hot meal dinner will await hikers and St John will attend any blisters. Hikers can then relax and spend the night in luxury before the presentations on Sunday morning.

The hike will provide transport from Tilehurst to Purley and in the unlikely event you need to be picked up and returned to base, we'll do that too.