Last update: 20th May 2026

This is a stage-by-stage summary of footpath closures currently in operation on the St James' Way.

Stage 1 – Reading to Mortimer

All clear; no issues.

Stage 2 – Mortimer to Worting

All clear; yet a longstanding diversion is on the horizon.

The huge Manydown housing development between Worting Wood Farm and Worting (at the end of this stage) is about to start in earnest.  We hope to agree semi-permanent diversions while the SJW route footpaths are closed.

If you find the SJW route footpath/track to Worting Wood Farm closed, continue along the road toward Wootton St Laurence.  Turn left after ½ mile to take the diverted footpath through a field to Worting Wood.  Keep straight on into the wood.  Upon the leaving the far side of the wood you re-join the route.  Click here to view the first footpath closure notice with map of the area.  

Stage 3 – Worting to Upper Wield

All clear; no issues.

Stage 4 – Upper Wield to Winchester

All clear; no issues.

Stage 5 – Winchester to Eastleigh

Just before reaching Shawford, which is about 1 ¾ miles after leaving The Hospital of St Cross, bank repairs to the Itchen Navigation are planned for two months between 1st June and 31st July from 8 am to 4 pm.  Take the detour illustrated by this map.

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Shawford diversion

The importance of this revetment work is explained in this download.  

Stage 6 – Eastleigh to Southampton

All clear except for 10 metres!  A very small section of the lower-level narrow footpath beside the River Itchen, ¼ mile after the Bishopstoke Road (at the start of the stage) is still a bit boggy.