Hikes & Walks in Oxfordshire

The enigmatic White Horse, carved out of the chalk downs, appears to be a figure of graceful beauty from the air, with its white tail flying, slimline body and neck completely stretched, and legs in full canter. It's the pinnacle of this eight-mile hike, which is rather difficult. This walk is full of mystery, with three old sites and a 17th century Dutch-styled home along the route. Leave White Horse Hill Car Park and follow the signage for the 3,000-year-old White Horse up on the chalk downs to see the stunning horse silhouette. 

Abingdon, one of England's oldest market towns, is best seen from the Thames. Between the lake and the meadow, stroll through red-roofed cottages and riverbank boats. Cross from one bank to the another, passing over bridges, weirs, locks, and islands. You'll also pay respect to Prime Minister Asquith and author George Orwell at Sutton Courtenay's.

The rambler will be taken through the charming market town of Chipping Norton and out into the rolling countryside that surrounds it on this easy walk. As you travel across this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, follow the blue 'Step into the Cotswolds' waymarkers.

Blenheim has it all: a Neoclassical country house, formal and hidden gardens, an arboretum, lakes, elegant bridges, and a temple. Follow this simple walk across the Blenheim Estate, which includes only a few steep climbs. Built to dazzle, Blenheim Palace dominates the skyline in all its ducal splendour. Before returning along the main road to finish your circle stroll, stop at the magnificent residence, the Great Court, and the formal gardens. Everything is designed to impress, as the titles imply.

This four-mile walk follows the banks of the River Thames through the charming town of Henley and out into the countryside which is home to the famous Royal Regatta. Take in the great sweep of the river, flanked with riverboats, boat houses, rowing clubs, and elegant residences, beginning with Henley Bridge on White Hill. The west bank path soon leaves the bustling promenade, dotted with river cruise boats and royal terraced residences, behind and continues between river and parks.

A three-mile walk through the old university neighbourhood and along the River Cherwell will allow you to appreciate its classical architecture. Begin at the 75-foot-high Carfax Tower on Queen Street, which offers spectacular views of the city. Then make your way north along Cornmarket Street to the Saxon Tower of St Michael and the North Gate, Oxford's oldest structure. 

The City Wall Walk is the greatest way to explore the key historical sights in Oxford. The walk starts at the Folly Bridge and leads you around the perimeter of the mediaeval city walls, which would have stood hundreds of years ago. You'll pass remains of the wall still standing on Brewer Street, as well as sights like St Michael at the Northgate, which was the city's initial entry.