Tuesday, 4 May 2021

Top 10 best places to walk in Gloucestershire this Summer.

From tall trees to luscious lakes, here are some of the prettiest places to explore as lockdown comes to an end

Tewksbury Weir
10. Tewksbury and Tewksbury Weir

History of Tewkesbury, a medieval market town (visittewkesbury.info)

Full of history, the small borough of Tewksbury is known for its Tudor houses and stunning Abby. The House of York gained victory against the Lancastrians in The Battle of the Roses here in 1471. Take a walk-through the pretty Victoria Gardens and then over the bridge to the large field, known as 'The Ham.' Follow the path, and here you will find the Tewksbury Weir on the River Severn. A weir is a small type of dam which looks like a water fall and this one in particular looks very magical. 


Cleeve Hill
9. Cleeve Hill and Belas Knap

Belas Knap Long Barrow | English Heritage (english-heritage.org.uk)

Can you make it to the top of the hill, the highest point in Gloucestershire? Full of bumpy paths, this hill can be a challenge but great fun for walkers. Finish your walk with a meal at “The Rising Sun” where you can enjoy the view. Take a drive down the road for a further 10 minutes towards Winchcombe, where you can visit Belas Knap, which is an ancient long barrow, very popular around Summer and Winter Solstice.


Pittville Park
8. Pittville Park, Cheltenham 

About Pittville Park | Pittville Park | Cheltenham Borough Council

Whether you're visiting on a cold day or a warm day, Pittville Park always looks cinematic. Full of wildlife from birds to squirrels, Pittville Park is a wonderful area to ponder around. Home to Pittville Pump Rooms, famous for it’s water, this building is stunning inside and out. If you’re visiting with children, they’ll love the recently expanded play park which is huge and full of unlimited fun.


Stroud Common. Photographer, Hannah Townsend
7. Stroud Common 

Minchinhampton and Rodborough Commons | National Trust

With lots of open land, the ways to walk are endless. Stroud Common is full of cows that openly graze, which places you right in the center of the countryside. The area is also surrounded by pubs and perfect for picnics when your legs become tired.


6. Wye Valley

Welcome to the Wye Valley | The Wye Valley AONB

The Wye River is popular for wild water swimming and is engulfed in nature. On the boarder of Wales, enjoy walking along the river and looking at the tall trees which surround the area. Whilst you’re there, take a look at the almost 1000km long dry-stone walls built 100’s of years ago. 


Bourton on the water
5. Bourton on the water

Bourton on the Water Tourist Information and Travel Guide Cotswolds UK

Bourton on the water is a small Cotswold village, which has The River Windrush flowing through it. It’s a popular destination for tourists and home to many attractions such as Birdland and The Model Village. Visit the small shops and take a quiet stroll along the river for a memorable day out. Longer walks include walking over the nearby fields.


4. Cirencester Cotswold Country Park and Beach

cotswoldcountryparkandbeach.com

Well known for its water sports and adventuristic activities for children and teenagers, Cirencester Country Park and Beach is perfect for warm days. As well as this, the park is home to many walking routes and cycle routes around the lakes. After a long day, visit the café for a cold and refreshing ice-cream. Check their website for more on prices. 


3. Westonbirt, Tetbury

Westonbirt, The National Arboretum | Forestry England

Book a ticket online and take a walk around the magical world of Westonbirt. Famous for its variety of trees and wildlife, Westonbirt is worth visiting all year round. Also home to several music events, Westonbirt is family friendly and an exciting place to explore. With toilets, a restaurant and places to sit on site, you’re bound to have a great day out. Check their website for information on tickets.


Forest of Dean
2. Forest of Dean – Sculpture Trail

Forest Of Dean Sculpture Trust – Forest Of Dean Sculpture Trust (forestofdean-sculpture.org.uk)

Looking for something mystical? The Forest of Dean is filled with sculptures hidden around a dense woodland; such as a huge outstanding stained-glass window, and a mysterious red rock. This trail is perfect for families and there’s also several shortcuts to take for younger members of the family. With a picnic area, café and outdoor play area on site, the children are bound to have a great time.  


Rococo Gardens
1. Rococo Gardens Painswick

Rococo Garden | Family Days Out & Wedding Venue | Cotswolds, Gloucestershire

The big number 1 - Rococo Gardens Painswick! Surround yourself in nature in these gardens full of beauty. Walking around and immersing yourself in the flowers and structures which were designed in the 1740’s is a different experience. See their website for more on prices.  

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