Journey to Avebury

An homage both to Derek Jarman and Coil, recreating the walking route taken in 1972 by Jarman from Marlborough in Wiltshire to the stone circles at Avebury.

Perhaps it was because he wasn’t trying, that Jarman's Nizo Super 8 camera was able to capture a beguiling quality with his short film Journey to Avebury*. It was one which John Balance also recognised, calling it his favourite Jarman film. With time and repeated viewings, particularly when accompanied by Coil’s especially commissioned soundtrack, the grainy footage incrementally offers its quiet enchantment. By giving the Wiltshire landscape's rolling agriculture, undulating valleys, chalky paths, curious livestock, nodding flower heads and shaking grass the same reverence as the ancient stones, Jarman captures the real magic of the rural English landscape.*

Experience that magical landscape too on this all-afternoon ramble that visits several of the Neolithic locations and henges that punctuate the journey taken by Jarman and his friend (and former teacher) Andrew Davies. Our destination is Avebury Henge, the world's largest prehistoric stone circle.

'J2A' is presented as a tribute and affectionate pilgrimage rather than an in-depth study of the stones' history and meaning. The two-way, informal environment means there will naturally be rewarding discoveries and conversations. Please also note that the remote rural location presents transport logistics that should be planned with care. 'Getting there' info can be provided.

The ticket price does not include transport, refreshments or accommodation.

A waiting list will operate in the event of a sold-out walk; please add your details and the organiser will contact you if a space becomes available. Refunds will ONLY be possible when a ticket can be re-allocated. Tickets ARE transferable; please contact the organiser to re-assign a name and email to a ticket you can't use.

Full public liability insurance exists for the event.

Wear sensible shoes.

Please see the Walk Info page to get the best out of the day.

About your guide:

Ben has been a Coil fan since discovering Horse Rotorvator at his local lending library in Manchester in 1987. With his Still Walking organisation, he has explored the possibilities of the guided walk format beyond purely heritage culture. He is the author of the 2023 guidebook 111 Places in Birmingham that You Shouldn't Miss and, along with Spydeee Gasmantell, is the co-author of the 2018 epistolary publication Conscience.