Area: Gloucestershire

Website which is 'all about accessibility to the countryside and green spaces of Gloucestershire'. About fifty descriptions of places worth exploring.

'Our programme of tours runs from March through to November and themes vary according to the season, offering insight into local history, people's lives, wildlife and beautiful architecture that can be found in the 45 acres of garden cemetery ... Want to visit Arnos Vale and take a self-guided tour? Buy one of our Trail leaflets ...'

'Bristol HF Rambling Club walks take advantage of wonderful local walking countryside within a radius of about 40 miles from Bristol, encompassing the Mendips, the Cotswolds and the Wye Valley. Members are offered the opportunity to lead a walk, but this is not essential.'

'One of the largest walking groups in the country. We arrange around 300 walks each year, ranging from short to long, from rural to urban.'

'Bristol Walk Fest (Bristol Walking Festival) features the best walks that Bristol and its surrounding area can offer. The Festival aims to attract a wide audience from those that are very new to walking to the more experienced rambler.' Usually held During May.

'Walking leaflets are available from Brockworth Community Centre, or download ...' Five circular walks of from 2.5 to 5.0 miles.

'Cheltenham U3A welcomes everyone who is no longer in full-time employment. We encourage learning simply for the enjoyment and satisfaction it brings – there are no tests or examinations. It has been demonstrated that mental and physical activity helps us to maintain mental and physical health.'

'The Coleford area abounds in natural beauty, intriguing history and is a playground for outdoor pursuits. It has been crying out for its own walking festival. Coleford Area Walking Festival has been a collaborative project led by Coleford Area Partnership and Coleford Town Council. We are very grateful for the support of so many local organisations and individuals. Without your support and that of so many volunteers the festival could simply not happen.' First Festival 2017. Held Mid May.

'Founded in 1993 and is owned and operated by husband and wife team Andrew and Elizabeth Guppy. The company remains the leading walking and hiking specialist in the Cotswolds. Their knowledge of the area and its footpaths, tracks and byways is unrivalled - and much imitated.'

'There are many kilometres of picturesque and peaceful footpaths around the Cotswold Water Park, with the added bonus of it all being very flat!'

'Walking in the Cotswolds provides a wealth of choices with gentle strolls, hilly hikes and a variety of circular walks including many level, stile-free walks for wheelchairs and easy access.'

'The idea to produce some Community Walks arose from the Community Plan consultation which highlighted the fact that many people did not know where the local open spaces, playing fields and parks are or the potential walks they could do in our area. We are very lucky that we have good access to green space and countryside from Downend and Bromley Heath. Each of the walks starts from one of the Open Spaces in our Parish so we hope you will get to know these and that lots of you will then be able to stride out and enjoy the walks we have chosen.'

'We would like you to visit Dursley and the surrounding countryside and go on some wonderful walks.'

Held Early October.

'Originally an ancient deer park, Dyrham Park remains home to a herd of almost 200 fallow deer and a vibrant landscape perfect for a long walk, picnic and family fun ... There are many different directions you can head in to explore the park, but the Prospect walk is a real must. Follow the tree-lined avenue towards Old Lodge and head beyond to the topograph where, on a good day, you can see past the Severn bridges to the Black Mountains in Wales.'

'Gloucestershire has an amazing amount of walks for all to enjoy, whether you wish to wander through the wooded glades of the Forest of Dean or walk the Cotswold Way.'

'Fairford is ... an excellent base for starting out on many beautiful riverside and lake walks, some of which lead out to the Cotswold Water Park.'

'A magical mixture of green-spaces in and around Bristol - a green belt of ancient woodlands, new tree plantations, reclaimed teak garden furniture, walking routes, historical sites and places of outstanding natural beauty.'

'Gloucester U3A welcomes new members and provides a means of making new friends in a convivial atmosphere. Groups are informal and friendly and the social element is very important. Programmes are worked out by mutual agreement amongst the group members. Some groups have a leader and a convenor; in others the roles are combined.'

Countryside walks in the various Country Parks within Gloucestershire.

'Social walking group which offers walks, weekends away, and a wide range of other outdoor activities. Our members are singles and couples and people who like to be part of and contribute to a social group.'

'We are a walking group for people of working age who are keen to get outdoors, walking and enjoying the countryside. We offer walks across the glorious Cotswold countryside and beyond most Sundays, often with a detour to a local pub or tea shop. During the summer we offer Thursday evening walks followed by a pub meal ... Almost all our members are of working age. We have some walks specifically for people in their 20s and 30s and these are proving very popular ...'

'Full route information including descriptions, elevation profiles, interactive maps and GPS downloads.'

The Stanleys have some of the most interesting, varied and beautiful walks in the Cotswolds. We are also blessed with fine scenery, historical features, fine architecture and parks. To help you to enjoy them, King's Stanley Parish Council have published, for the first time, a guide to some of these public footpaths. These walks are of varying distance and demands from 1.5 miles to 10 miles long. Clear guidance is given to distances involved and possible difficulties such as step-over stiles, steep hills, mud and livestock.

PDFs of four Walks - each of about 3.7 miles in length: 'Kingswood is fortunate in having in excess of 19 miles of Public Footpath. Historically these were used as routes to work, places of worship and of course short cuts to Public Houses and other very necessary destinations ...'

'The Local History Group, in collaboration with Minchinhampton Parish Council are gradually developing a series of walks around the area which help to explain our rich history. You can download the walk leaflets to explore for yourself.' ALERT At Review, this Website was inaccessible.

'Opened in 1825, Pittville Park is the largest ornamental park in Cheltenham and features the magnificent pump room and lakes. This park is given a grade 2 listing under the English Heritage register of historic parks and gardens, with the pump rooms as a Grade I historic building.'

'All groups welcome new walkers. You don’t have to join the Ramblers when participating in the first two or three walks. Just turn up at the walk start or phone the walk leader beforehand. Some groups will hold "new members" walks occasionally, although you are welcome to come along on any published walk.'

'Covers the entire County and its eight local groups have a total membership of over 1400.'

'Robinswood Hill Country Park is a 100 hectare Local Nature Reserve and country park adjacent to the city of Gloucester. The site is a fantastic resource for people and wildlife with a range of habitats, as well as important historical and geological sites. However despite its close proximity to many communities, knowledge about the Country Park is limited and the site is underused ... '

'Formed in May 1997 from which time the membership has grown steadily, currently standing at around 150. We arrange walks throughout the year, ranging from short to long, from rural to urban. We get around 12 - 18 people on our walks, a manageable number which has given Severnside a reputation for its friendliness and sociability.'

'From birdwatchers to families there is plenty to discover all year round. With experiences to suit all ages offering access to a huge variety of wildlife, it is no surprise we are an award-winning day out! ... Check the daily walks and talks schedule before you go to make sure you don't miss anything ...'

'Many of the rights of way in South Gloucestershire are promoted through leaflets and websites. These routes vary from short circular walks designed to be easily accessible, to long-distance walking routes such as the Cotswold Way and Severn Way.'

'With its dramatic Cotswolds landscape, unique arts and crafts heritage, fabulous festivals and independent shops, the Stroud District is the least commercialised and unexplored area for a holiday in the Cotswolds.'

'“Look deep into nature, and then you will understand everything better” Albert Einstein ... Welcome to the Botanic Garden, a place, to learn and think about nature ...'

'Bristol and its surrounding countryside have many opportunities for those wishing to enjoy a leisurely stroll or more challenging trek. The city is often described as, "best explored on foot" due to its high proportion of pedestrian-only areas, hidden streets and numerous parks and green spaces. You can enjoy a sightseeing stroll, guided and themed tours, a longer promenade on the outskirts and a full day's trek in the nearby countryside of Somerset, Gloucestershire and Wiltshire.'

'Walking Holidays and Hiking Tours in the glorious English Cotswolds and the heart of England - where nature and history come to life.'

'Walk for Health Bristol supports a number of Walking for Health groups across Bristol, offering a variety of free friendly walks from 10 - 90 minutes. Walk for Health Bristol works in partnership with other Bristol based schemes (Hengrove Park Leisure, Knowle West Health Park and Linkage Bristol) to offer programmes of regular, short, led walks.'

'Our Health Walks are organised, volunteer led walks that generally last about an hour and are generally no more than 3 miles long, often less. They are FREE to take part in and are a great way to help you get more active and meet new people. They are suitable for everyone regardless of age or ability, and you need no specialist equipment. Our walks are graded from level 1 to level 3 ...'

'Within the 17 miles of accessible paths and five national collections, children become young adventurers, adults connect with trees through guided walks, workshops, self-led trails or volunteering.'

'This website gives you all the information you need if you are visiting Winchcombe, the walking centre for the Cotswolds ... We have pages focussed on walks, attractions, eating out, shops, accommodation and links to websites where you can find a wealth of information.'

Usually held mid May.

12 Easy Walks  'gives you a gentle introduction to the region. These 12 circular walks are intended as manageable strolls for anyone who wants to spend a short time walking without a great deal of effort ... These walks are aimed at: Older Walkers | The Less Able | Young Families | Inexperienced Walkers'.

Also an extensive set of 'links to details of walks that can be freely downloaded from the Internet in addition to our own Easy Walks'.

'There are four circular walks which are colour coded, named (Hare, Gloucester Cattle, Skylark & Salmon) and are approximately 4.5 to 5 miles long, so allow about 2.5 hours for each one (or go crazy and do all four). The directions for all walks begin and end at the main map board, which is adjacent to the side wall of The Red Lion. All walks have kissing gates and bridges. It may be helpful to refer to the Ordnance Survey, Outdoor Leisure 14. What you see will vary from season to season. Some of the walks may be a little muddy at times but there will always be good cheer and hearty food and drink available back at The Red Lion when you return.'

'Several centuries of church-building can be seen around Dumbleton Hill.'

'Off road route between the cities of Bristol and Bath. The path is open to walkers and cyclists and access is provided for disabled users. The Path is many things to many people - an integral commuting route, an attractive leisure path and an important wildlife corridor.'

'The extent of Bristol’s Floating Harbour – nearly eight miles of water across three miles of the city – makes for a tremendously varied landscape. This Booklet [PDF] describes several trails that walkers and cyclists can follow alongside all of these waterways. We encourage you to explore for yourselves the byways and mysteries that this unique feature of Bristol offers.'

'Bristol's Old Market Quarter is a unique area of the city. It is rich in heritage, but what makes it so special is that although the community has changed over the centuries, the area has kept its history and character intact. The purpose of this walking trail is to provide an introduction to Old Market and to encourage visitors to discover its past and to enjoy what this fascinating area has to offer in the present ...'

'Bristol residents and visitors alike will enjoy the Bristol Opening Doors walking trail which explores 24 diverse buildings across the city centre. You can use this trail to see the buildings that are involved in the annual Doors Open Day, but on any of the 365 days of the year.'

'You can view Bristol's entire public rights of way network on our interactive web map or alternatively, view the wider network of rights of way in South Gloucestershire and Bath and North East Somerset, including all path furniture and pictures, on the OutdoorsWest web site.'

'Nigel Andrews, one of the most prolific walk leaders in Bristol Group, has written a book describing a new 85 mile long-distance footpath from Bristol to Brecon. The route includes a wonderful variety of scenery, including mountains, lovely valleys, historic towns and some lesser-known parts of South Wales. It passes through Chepstow, Usk and Abergavenny, crossing Sugar Loaf, Table Mountain and the Brecon Beacons.'  The Bristol to Brecon Walk by Nigel Andrews (2008)

'This city walk was devised in 2001 by members of the Bristol Ramblers, with funding and assistance from Bristol City Council. Offering wonderful views within and across the city, this walk enables the rambler, occasional walker or beginner to explore the Waterfront, Durdham Downs, Avon Gorge and Blaise Castle Estate as well as the heart and history of the City.'

Download PDFs of a range of Walking Routes around and about the City of Bristol: excerpts from two Booklets - one for the north and east of the City; the other for the south and central.

'The only off-road event for runners or walkers that follows a scenic course on sections of the Cheltenham Circular Footpath, Cotswold Way and Winchcombe Way.' Usually held Mid June.

'Tours covering different areas of Pittville Park and Montpellier Gardens which point out many fine trees and give information about the species.'

'If you’re in the attractive town of Cheltenham Spa for a few days ... then you might think about spending a few hours seeing the parks and landmarks on foot.'

'There are a number of good walks in and around the area. Chipping Campden is an ideal starting or finishing point for your walk ... If you are attempting all 100 miles of the famous Cotswold Way to Bath then you will be aware that the War Memorial is the official Chipping Campden start/finish point of the Cotswold Way.'

'Passes picturesque villages and historic sites as it travels along the Cotswold escarpment ... 96% within the Cotswolds designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.'

'Walks on Wheels is a series of fifteen short routes throughout the Cotswolds AONB that can be explored by users of wheelchairs, power scooters and children's buggies.' ALERT Unfortunately, these Walks no longer seem accessible via the AONB Website.  So I have replaced the Link with one to Oxfordshire County Council.

'As part of 2012's Diamond Jubilee celebrations, our Voluntary Wardens have created a brand new series of "miles without stiles" walking routes throughout the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty to help you easily explore and enjoy our countryside and landscape. Each walk is around 2.5 to 5 miles in length and takes you on a circular journey through some of our most wonderful places ... ' ALERT I could no longer find this Collection as such on the AONB Site. So I have replaced the Link with a related Link.

'Base yourself in one of our colourful market towns or pretty villages for a weekend or mid-week break with walks. These downloadable itinerary ideas are full of inspiration for places to stay, things to do and a selection of wonderful walks, whether you want a gentle stroll or a longer hike ... The routes are available to buy from the Tourist Information Centre in the town/village or available to download free of charge online.' ALERT The Website no longer seems to include this Section; so I have had to amend the Links to a related area.

'This area is famous for its wild daffodils, and in March every year the local villages of Kempley and Dymock get together to provide teas, and guided walks. You can find the dates this is happening in the forthcoming year here.'

The Website of the Friends of the Dymock Poets summarises the history of the Way - and of the The Dymock Poets' Paths

'Walk linking the pubs of the Donnington Brewery in a circular path through rural Gloucestershire. Most Donnington houses offer bed and breakfast facilities, enabling you to walk distances of your choice. The Donnington Way is a true Cotswold delight for the rambler who thrives on well-kept countryside, hidden villages and good beer.'

The Donnington Way: a History of Donnington Brewery and Walk Between the Donnington Inns (Walkabout Series) by Colin Handy (Reardon Publishing, 2012). Amazon offer a Kindle Edtion of this Guide.

'The Dramway Path is a 9-mile linear walk that follows sections of the route of a nineteenth century tramway which carried coal from Coalpit Heath in the Bristol coalfield down to the River Avon.'

'Shows seventeen permanent artworks, with free access to all in a wonderful woodland environment.'

You can solve Bristol's biggest problem 'For most people that problem is traffic – congestion, delays, pollution and accidents. More and more of us realize that the problem cannot be solved on the roads alone and that the neglected railways can make a crucial contribution ...'

'The Frome Valley creates an important green corridor through the villages and farmland of South Gloucestershire and the dense housing of northeast Bristol. The parks, woodlands, meadows and waterways provide welcome recreational space for people and a valuable environment for wildlife. The Frome Valley Walkway is an important recreational path running along the river connecting communities and open spaces.'

'This site highlights the main features of Gloucester Docks and the 16 mile ship canal link to Sharpness Docks and the sea. Brief details are given about the history of what can be seen today, with many comparisons of old and recent views. Information is also provided about facilities of interest to visitors, vessels and people associated with the waterway and plans for developments.'

'We aim to present interesting and educational content on Gloucester's heritage and history. Make the most of your visit to Gloucester with a Guided Walk or read an essay or historic leaflet ... .Self Guided Walks are available from St Michael's Tower and Gloucester Tourist Information Centre'

'The four walks range from 1.5-5.5 miles and take in little known and glorious countryside on the doorstep of Gloucester ... '

'Offers strategic advice and comment to the County Council and Natural England on the improvement of access. This Forum consists of interest groups such as walkers, cyclists, equestrians, disabled users and landowners.  It advises the county council regarding access to the countryside and public rights of way matters.'

The Definitive Map and Statement is the 'legal record of the public rights of way and shows the routes of each public footpath, bridleway, restricted byway and byway open to all traffic in the county. You can view:

*The original map at Shire Hall during office hours (no need to book an appointment);

* Rights of Way Map Online 'This is not the definitive map but our attempt to show the data in an electronic format'.

'Medium distance rambler’s route from Cranham to Wyck Rissington, via Cheltenham and Bourton. Each of these places has some association with the composer, and the broad stretch of Cotswold country between them was also well known to Holst, who records several pleasant days spent walking in the uplands and dales.' ALERT Details of the Route no longer seems accessible on the Holst Birthplace Museum Website; so I have replaced the Link with one to an outline PDF courtesy of LDWA.

'The Hartpury Circular Walk ... Walks to our southern neighbours ... Walks from Corsend ... Walks to Ashleworth'

'The JLAF was established in July 2003 pursuant to a duty set out by the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000. Appointments to the JLAF are made so that there is a balance between landowner, user and other interests within the membership ... The JLAF's voluntary membership includes a variety of interests, including those of land managers, users and one Councillor from each authority involved .'

'Cheltenham remains an elegant and attractive town which continues to draw visitors from around the world for its fine buildings and ambiance. Most of the sites of Jewish interest lie around the centre of the town. The synagogue is of exceptional interest due to the acknowledged beauty and historical interest of its interior and should be visited ...'

'Gloucester has an unexpected and fascinating Jewish history linked to the military and port history of the city ... '

'Stroud's main claim to note has been as a woolen and worsted producing town in the west of England. The town lies quite dramatically on the steep flanks of a valley and is surprisingly remindful of one of the old woolen towns in the north of England ...'

'Links the Severn Way to the Cotswold Way and enters the Parish of Yate to the north of Yate Rocks, taking walkers through fields to Brimsham Park and then across to Sodbury Common. There are also footpaths around The Common, some of which suit wheelchair users and pushchairs. You can download a detailed Jubilee Way walking leaflet from South Gloucestershire Council via which you can download additional detailed maps of the area.'

'Back in 1985, a head-over-heels fan of Cider with Rosie, I spent a day exploring Slad with Laurie Lee as my guide. I've never forgotten the deep and amused affection that the author showed for the little South Gloucestershire village where he grew up ...'

'Joining the limestone of the Cotswolds to that of the Mendip Hills. It is a connecting route between the Cotswold Way at Cold Ashton and the West Mendip Way at Shipham. Between the two, the route passes through the valleys and villages south of Bath. Except for an ascent at each end, the walk is mostly flat and not strenuous.'

'A choice of 7 themed tours is offered covering some 37 locations. They are designed to be enjoyed either in sequence or to stand alone. There are frequent bus services to places from which you can comfortably walk six of the tours. One tour is more extended and demands the use of bicycle or car. In addition there are a further 9 sites key to the themes of the trail.'

'A roughly diamond shaped walk visiting many small villages using quiet footpaths. Imaginative and scenic route through rural Gloucestershire, created by the Ramblers' North Cotswold Group to celebrate its 60th Jubilee in 1995.'

North Cotswold Diamond Way by Elizabeth Bell (North Cotswold Ramblers Group, 2011)

'We are an independent voluntary organisation that provides information and other services to people who enjoy exploring the heritage and countryside of the England-Wales border. We seek to promote and protect the 1200-year-old Offa's Dyke and the Offa's Dyke Path.'

'A wonderful way marked walk linking the Cotswolds, the Mendips, the Polden Hills, the Quantocks, the Brendons, Exmoor National Park and the North Devon Coast ... Enjoy our illustrated guidebook complete with route maps with all profits donated to Samaritans.'

'Devised in 2005 by members of the Bristol Group of the Ramblers Association with funding and assistance from Bristol City Council. It offers wonderful views across the City Centre, Avon Valley, Stockwood Nature Reserve, Dundry Hill and Ashton Court.'

'The Parish Access Trails have been brought about by a project through which 10 Parish Councils were given the opportunity to create an easily accessible circular walk in their parish that reflects the character and heritage of the area. The main focus of the trails is to remove physical barriers such as stiles and replace them with kissing gates and hand gates to allow more people to enjoy the countryside.'

'We publish, in partnership with the South Gloucestershire Heritage Forum, a series of leaflets detailing heritage trails around the area. The leaflets show routes you can take by car, bus or on foot that include sites of particular interest.

'This walk follows in the steps of the Romans and the later Turnpikes of the Bristol Trust, taking in a number of milestones, waymarkers and boundary markers and a superb toll-house; on the longer walks, there are extensive views over the surrounding countryside.'

'Leads you to Stow's hidden gems and provides an insight into the history of buildings and the St. Edwards church. The trail is approximately 1 kilometer and on level ground with the exception of the entry into the churchyard. The Stow on the Wold Town Trail guide is available at GO-STOW and costs 50p only.'

'Allows you to download self-guided walking routes from across the Stroud District and within Gloucestershire. There are currently five sets of walks available.'

'Tewkesbury presents one of the best medieval townscapes in England with its fine half-timbered buildings, overhanging upperstoreys and elaborate carved doorways. Most of the town lies within the Tewkesbury Conservation Area, over 350 of the buildings are listed of being of special architectural or historic interest.'

'The Rivers Thames and Severn are once again connected - this time by footpath. The footpath, known the Thames & Severn Way, has been marked out by volunteers from the Cotswold Canals Trust. It mainly follows the towpaths of the Stroudwater Navigation and Thames & Severn Canal between Framilode and Lechlade, but in places deviates on to other rights of way, such as the Thames Path.'

'Follow the greatest river in England for 184 miles (294 km) from its source in the Cotswolds almost to the sea. Passing through peaceful water meadows, unspoilt rural villages, historic towns and cities, and finally cutting through the heart of London to finish at the Thames Barrier in Greenwich.'

Details of published Guidebook describing 'long distance footpath between the cities of Gloucester, Hereford, and Worcester, with a theme of poetry and music linking the walk with the Music Festival celebrated at the three cathedrals for over 300 years'.

'There are various trails that you can explore on Troopers Hill. The trails are designed to be fun ways of exploring the Hill while learning more about its wildlife and history ... There is free unrestricted access to Troopers Hill, all day everyday and by crossing Troopers Hill Field you can get the top of the hill without any steps or steep slopes.'

'Twyning Parish is acknowledged to have one of the finest networks of public footpaths in the entire County. In 1994 the Parish Council won the Rambler's Association Footpath Heritage trophy for the excellent state of its 19 miles of footpaths and bridleways. All paths are clearly marked with way signs and range from simple village walks to longer trips across the Commons.'

'The W.A.S. Way (Walk Around Stroud) is Gloucestershire’s newest way-marked trail. An ambitious 11-mile route, it follows public footpaths around the entire town boundary.'

'Project specifically for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGB and Trans) people to get together to share time, thoughts and the surprisingly amazing walks in and around Bristol. In partnership with Walk for Health Bristol, this Project will bring accessible, gentle and welcoming walking groups to anyone who would like to join.'

'Figure-of-eight trail centred on Winchcombe. The way marked trail is designed to show walkers the hidden gems of the northern Cotswolds. The landscape is constantly changing and reveals the charm of the Cotswolds.'