Gloucestershire

Gloucestershire, situated in the South West of England, is blessed with diverse landscapes, from the rolling hills of the Cotswolds to the lush forests of the Forest of Dean. With charming villages, historic landmarks, and picturesque countryside, Gloucestershire offers a plethora of walking opportunities for all levels of walkers. Here are some popular walks to explore in Gloucestershire:

Popular Walks in Gloucestershire

1. Cotswold Way

• Length: 102 miles (from Chipping Campden to Bath)
• Highlights: This iconic long-distance trail traverses the length of the Cotswold Hills, passing through quintessential English countryside, picturesque villages, and historic sites such as Broadway Tower and Sudeley Castle. While the full route takes several days to complete, shorter sections can be enjoyed as day walks.

2. The Wye Valley Walk

• Length: Approximately 136 miles (from Chepstow to Plynlimon)
• Highlights: Following the scenic River Wye, this long-distance trail offers breathtaking views of the Wye Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Walkers can explore wooded gorges, limestone cliffs, and charming riverside towns such as Tintern and Ross-on-Wye.

3. Forest of Dean Sculpture Trail

• Length: About 4 miles (circular)
• Highlights: This unique trail showcases contemporary sculptures set within the beautiful woodlands of the Forest of Dean. The easy walk offers an intriguing mix of art and nature, with sculptures ranging from traditional to avant-garde.

4. Cleeve Hill Circular Walk

• Length: Approximately 6 miles (circular)
• Highlights: Cleeve Hill is the highest point in the Cotswolds, offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The circular walk takes you across open grassland, past ancient burial mounds, and through scenic valleys.

5. Cotswold Water Park

• Length: Various walking trails of different lengths
• Highlights: With over 150 lakes and wetland habitats, the Cotswold Water Park offers a plethora of walking opportunities amidst beautiful scenery. Trails wind through nature reserves, meadows, and along tranquil lakeshores, providing excellent birdwatching and wildlife spotting.

6. Gloucester and Sharpness Canal

• Length: Various sections for shorter walks
• Highlights: Follow the historic Gloucester and Sharpness Canal, which was once a vital trade route connecting Gloucester with the River Severn. The flat towpath provides easy walking with views of locks, bridges, and industrial heritage.

Tips for Walking in Gloucestershire

• Check Trail Conditions: Some trails may become muddy or slippery after rainfall, so wear appropriate footwear and be prepared for changing conditions.
• Respect Wildlife: Keep a respectful distance from wildlife, especially in nature reserves and protected areas.
• Stay Hydrated: Carry sufficient water, especially on longer walks, as facilities may be limited in rural areas.
• Carry a Map: While many trails are well-signposted, it’s always wise to carry a map or use a GPS device to ensure you stay on the right path.
• Be Prepared for Weather: Gloucestershire weather can be unpredictable, so dress in layers and bring waterproof clothing, especially in the cooler months.

Whether you’re exploring the timeless beauty of the Cotswolds, immersing yourself in the tranquility of the Forest of Dean, or discovering the cultural heritage along the River Wye, walking in Gloucestershire offers a wonderful opportunity to connect with nature and experience the charm of rural England.

• Alderton
• Ampney St Mary
• Arlingham
• Arlington
• Ashleworth
• Avening
• Barnsley
• Bibury
• Bisley
• Blaisdon
• Blockley
• Bourton-on-the-Water
• Box
• Bradley
• Cambridge
• Charfield
• Chedworth
• Chipping Campden
• Cirencester
• Claydon
• Cold Aston
• Coleford
• Colesbourne
• Donnington
• East Dean
• Eastcombe
• Elkstone
• Falfield
• Ford
• Forthampton
• Frome
• Fyfield
• Gloucester
• Great Barrington
• Great Rissington
• Gretton
• Guiting Power
• Hawkesbury Upton
• Henfield
• Henley
• Hill
• Holywell
• Horsley
• Kingham
• Lansdown
• Lechlade
• Marshfield
• Mickleton
• Mill Hill
• Miserden
• Morton
• Naunton
• Nettleton
• New Mills
• Newmarket
• North Cerney
• North Nibley
• Oldbury-on-Severn
• Overton
• Painswick
• Parkend
• Prestbury
• Rodley
• Sapperton
• Severn Beach
• Sheepscombe
• Shipton Moyne
• Slad
• Snowshill
• South Cerney
• Southrop
• Stanton
• Staple Hill
• Stone
• Stratford
• Stroud
• Swindon
• Swineford
• Tewkesbury
• Two Bridges
• Upper Oddington
• Wickwar
• Winchcombe
• Withington
• Woodbridge
• Wotton