11 of the Best Walks in Gloucestershire

Immerse yourself in history and nature with these beautiful walks in Gloucestershire.

Home to the rolling Cotswold hills and ancient forests, Gloucestershire is idyllic anytime of the year.

Walks in Gloucestershire have something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a thigh burning hike, a secret spot, or open fields for your pooch.

Discover Gloucestershire’s most outstanding landscapes with our list of the 11 best walks…

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1) Dover’s Hill

For spectacular views, be sure to tick off the National Trust landmark, Dover’s Hill.

This natural amphitheatre has views stretching to the Malvern Hills and surrounding countryside. See sheep dotted along the sloping hill as you savour the fresh countryside air.

Dover’s Hill also benefits from a rich history. Discover Roman remains in the nearby woodland, which was once a vineyard.

In the 17th century, The Cotswold Olimpick Games began on the hill; here events like shin-kicking would take place.

Distance: 3.7 miles

Difficulty: Moderate

Suitable for: Adults and pets

Car park postcode: GL55 6UW

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2) Symonds Yat Rock in the Forest of Dean

Surrounded by rich woodlands in the Forest of Dean is Symonds Yat Rock.

Admire the panoramic views of the rural Wye Valley and look out for unique falconry flying past. If you time your trip right, you might spot Peregrine Falcons!

As well as wonderful wildlife, this walk in Gloucestershire has a riveting history. There is an Iron Age hillfort, built over 2500 years ago, which is now a certified ancient monument.

After soaking up the past, treat yourselves to a refreshment at the family-run café. Enjoy a baked cake and cup of tea as the views of Gloucestershire stretch out before you.

Discover more of the Wye Valley trails with our blog: Your Guide to walking the Wye Valley.

Distance: 1.2 miles

Difficulty: Moderate

Suitable for: Families and pets

Car park postcode: GL1 67NZ

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The best dog walks in Gloucestershire

Let your furry friend’s roam this scenic region with you on the best dog walks in Gloucestershire.

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3. Mallards Pike Lake

Take your furry friend on an adventure to Mallards Pike Lake. With a designated ‘dog-dip’ area in the lake, your dogs can get their paws wet with a paddle.

There are a variety of trails to explore with your pet, as well as a picnic spot for when they need a rest.

If you fancy a thrill, why not challenge yourself to a Tree Top Challenge at Go Ape? Meanwhile, the young ones can pick up skills on a fun Gruffalo Orienteering course.

Distance: 4 miles

Difficulty: Easy

Suitable for: Families and pets

Car park postcode: GL15 4HD

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 4. Pitville Park

Next on our list of the best dog walks in Gloucestershire is the ornamental park, Pitville Park. This sprawling park is in the vibrant town of Cheltenham and has a river for a calming stroll.

The park opened in 1825 and hosts plenty of green spaces, where your canine companion can run free.

Once your pup has let off some steam, why not treat them to a dog-friendly ice-cream inside the Pitville Pump Room?

Absorb the opulence in the magnificent Pump Room which is a Grade I listed building. Constructed in 1825, this elegant building was the largest spa in the whole of Cheltenham.

Distance: 1.1 miles

Difficulty: Easy

Suitable for: Families and pets

Car park postcode: GL52 3JE

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5. The Forest of Dean Sculpture Trail

Watch the colours change each season with this inspiring walk in Gloucestershire. In Spring, look up to see lively greens and in Autumn admire a carpet of orange, reds and yellows.

The trail begins at Beechenhurst Lodge, where you can fuel your day at the on-site café. You can savour your snacks at a picnic bench before exploring the Wye Valley.

On your journey, you will see an array of quirky sculptures; admire stained glass hanging from above and artsy animals around.

See what else this ancient forest has to offer with our guide on the 7 stunning Forest of Dean Walks.

Distance: 4.5 miles

Difficulty: Easy

Suitable for: Families and pets

Car park postcode: GL16 7EL

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Circular walks in Gloucestershire

Enjoy Gloucestershire’s splendid features on a circular walk. Wander winding paths with the comfort of returning to your car afterwards.

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6. Bourton-on-the-Water and Stow-on-the-Wold circular

Discover honey-coloured cottages and vibrant meadows with this picturesque trail.

The Bourton-on-the-Water and Stow-on-the-Wold circular is well signposted, with a bit of everything. Meander through quintessential Cotswold villages, hills and fields.

This circular walk in Gloucestershire can be muddy so be sure to bring along your walking boots or wellies. Those keen hikers will be glad to know that this trail has inclines to test your stamina too.

Along the way, visit historic churches and rustic pubs, where you can warm up beside a fire.

Delve deeper into the Cotswolds with a read of our Cotswolds travel guide.

Distance: 4.8 miles

Difficulty: Moderate

Suitable for: Adults

Car park postcode: GL54 2DT

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7. Painswick Beacon Circular Walk

Pass a hilly golf course before taking an incline walk up to the vantage point. From the top of the Beacon, absorb the scenery, with a backdrop of the Brecon Beacons and the Forest of Dean.

After taking time to admire the 360 views, check out the Iron Age hill fort to unveil the village’s past. The fort dates to the first century BCE and ramparts still remain.

On your way back down, you can take a quick detour and treat yourselves to a stop at the traditional pub, Royal William.

Distance: 2.25 miles

Difficulty: Moderate

Suitable for: Families and pets

Car park postcode: GL6 6SU

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The best walks in South Gloucestershire

With its chocolate box villages, heritage sites and greenery, South Gloucestershire is ideal. Walks in South Gloucestershire are a great way to spend time with loved ones and revisit the past.

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8. Dyrham Park and National Trust Circular

Sprawling parkland gardens await this route through the 17th century Dyrham estate.

Wander the 170 acres of manicured grounds, which are bursting with colours all year round.

There are miles waiting to be explored; find the best vistas with views over to Wales.

Or why not join a guided-tour to learn all about the history of the parkland?

Dyrham Park is ideal for those wanting a tranquil walk. Grab a cup of coffee from the on-site café and take a seat on a shaded bench for a rest. If you enjoy this National Trust walk learn, check-out our blog: “Lacock Abbey: Everything you need to know!”

Distance: 2.1 miles

Difficulty: Easy

Suitable for: Families

Car park postcode: SN14 8HY

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9. Golden Valley Nature Reserve from Raven’s Rock Loop, Wick

Nestled in the quiet village of Wick near Bristol, this unique landscape is great for a woodland walk.

Pass a large quarry, a habitat for an array of wildlife and breath-taking views.

The quarry was once a hive for industrial activity, which was important for iron works. Since then, nature has taken over and this glorious space now has a Green-Flag Award.

This South Gloucestershire walk is dominated by ancient Sycamore trees and has The River Boyd flowing through the site. Sink your wellies into the grasslands and meet others alike on this popular route.

Distance: 3.2 miles

Difficulty: Easy

Suitable for: Families and dogs

Car park postcode: BS30 5QJ

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Secret walks in Gloucestershire

Discover hidden charms with these impressive secret walks in Gloucestershire. Meander these hand-picked estates to see the Cotswolds most unique architecture.

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 10. Chedworth Roman Villa walk

Surrounded by Cotswold countryside near the pretty village of Chedworth, is Chedworth Roman Villa.

Offering a stunning setting with far-reaching views over Gloucestershire, Chedworth is a must-see. Enjoy the scenery from a bench, before delving into the Roman past.

Wander over to the Nymphaeum water shrine; here Romans would worship the water goddess. You can take a break from the outdoors and head inside to the museum to admire artefacts.

Distance: 2.3 miles

Difficulty: Easy

Suitable for: Families

Car park postcode: BS30 5QJ

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11. Sezincote House & Garden walk

Spanning 3,500 acres of countryside, is this Indian-inspired estate, Sezincote House & Garden.

Have a romantic stroll around the beautiful grounds, which features waterfalls and temples.

Follow meandering paths through huge oak trees and find spring pools on the way.

In the heart of the estate is an Indian-inspired dome, which adds to the enchantment to the gardens. Sezincote was created in 1810 by Charles Cockerell, who had spent time in India with his brother.

Now, Sezincote is the only Mughal mansion throughout northern Europe, which is why it is one of the best secret walks in Gloucestershire.

Distance: 3 miles

Difficulty: Easy

Suitable for: Families

Disabled car park and drop off point: GL56 9AW

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Has this guide to Gloucestershire inspired your wanderlust?

With its pristine countryside and quintessential Cotswold villages, this county is great anytime. And whilst in Gloucestershire, why not have a day filled with fun in Cheltenham. Read our blog: Your Guide to Cheltenham Lido.

Make your visit even longer with a stay in this collection of Manor Cottages.

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