Our Favourite Walks in Gloucestershire

Cleeve Hill

Cleeve Hill is a popular walking spot on the edge of the Cotswolds, near Cheltenham. Climb the 1,083ft hill for spectacular views of the surrounding countryside, or do the six-mile Cleeve Hill Common Ring, one of the most popular circular walks in Gloucestershire. This is a moderate-level route with some steep sections and takes around three or four hours to complete.

Forest of Dean Sculpture Trail

This unique walk is just four miles long, passing through the ancient woodland in the Forest of Dean. Along the way, visitors will encounter works by renowned artists like Cornelia Parker, Kevin Atherton and David Nash. Visit this sculpture trail for a day out the whole family will enjoy.

Gloucester and Sharpness Canal

The 16-mile canalway between Gloucester and Sharpness provides plenty of walking opportunities. The flat terrain makes this a pleasant, low-intensity walk, with several routes available. Take in the picturesque countryside and nature along the way, including the Slimbridge Bird Sanctuary. Then, stop at the National Waterways Museum in Gloucester Docks to learn more about the history of this impressive canal.

Cotswold Way

Beginning in the town of Chipping Campden and stretching 102 miles to Bath, this idyllic walking route runs through some of Gloucestershire’s most beautiful scenery. From rolling hills and woodland to picturesque Cotswold villages, stately homes and historic sites, there’s plenty to see along this National Trail.

Robinswood Hill

Located near Gloucester, this country park is popular with keen walkers and families alike. It’s also one of the most dog-friendly walks in Gloucestershire, as you can let your furry friends off the lead. The trails are one to two hours long, depending on which route you take to the summit. Once you reach the top, you can see the city of Gloucester, the Malvern Hills, the Severn Bridges and the Black Mountains.

Cotswold Water Park

This nature reserve near Cirencester boasts many walking routes of various distances, where visitors can enjoy the wildlife that inhabits the rivers, brooks and lakes. The flat terrain makes it the ideal location for the whole family, but dogs must be kept on a lead to avoid disturbing the wildlife.

Symonds Yat Rock

Above the River Wye is Symonds Yat Rock, a renowned viewpoint with breathtaking views of the Wye Valley below. The site is a breeding place for Perigrine Falcons and is protected by the RSPB, giving visitors the chance to see these majestic birds nesting between April and August. There are various walking trails around Symonds Yat, including routes which pass along the river and through woodland.

Dover’s Hill

Situated near the town of Chipping Campden, Dover’s Hill overlooks the Cotswold Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The moderate-level circular walk to the summit meanders through fields and woodland, taking around two to three hours to complete. The panoramic views across the sprawling Gloucestershire countryside make the climb worthwhile!