Walking

Stretch your legs in South Oxfordshire

If you want to explore the area, then South Oxfordshire's unspoilt villages are waiting to welcome you with their wealth of country pubs, historic churches and buildings and beautiful gardens. And what better way to see them than by walking.

Whether you fancy a casual stroll or a more vigorous hike, South Oxfordshire has a route to please. Rolling chalk hills, natural woodland and meandering river paths can be found in the Chilterns and along the Ridgeway and Thames Path national trails and there are many designated health walks in the area.

For the really energetic, there is the opportunity to walk the entire Thames path from Oxford to Reading and for truly breath-taking views, walkers can make their way to Wittenham Clumps and the secluded path along the ancient earthworks of Grim's Ditch.

Icknield Way is where walkers can marvel at majestic beech woods and a slow walk to Swyncombe in February greets walkers with beautiful snowdrops in full bloom.

For those that prefer something a bit gentler then The Chilterns Sculpture trail at Lewknor is for you. Pass through a wood with fantastic views of the Chilterns while gazing at over 20 unique sculptures. There are also several historical houses and buildings with fragrant gardens and mazes just waiting for you to amble through.

Wherever you walk in South Oxfordshire, there should be plenty of wildlife to observe and enjoy although, of course, the time of year you are there is important. There will be birds present all year round, but if you're keen on wild flowers then April to September is the time to visit, and if insects are an interest of yours choose June to September.