We asked our staff: what are your favourite local walks?
We’re so lucky to live and work in the beautiful county of Gloucestershire, there are so many gorgeous walking routes to explore. So, we thought, who better to ask for recommendations than our outdoor experts! We’ve compiled a list of 8 local walks that our staff, and I’m sure many of you will, love!
Canal Walks
With the canal walks surrounding Stroud, Gloucester, or the stretch between Frampton and Slimbridge, there are plenty of charming canal walks in our area. There are plenty of coffee shops, lots of wildlife, and many disabled-friendly routes for you to explore.
Haresfield Beacon to Standish Woods
Haresfield Beacon to Standish Woods is another gorgeous local walk. There are places for picnics, cycling paths if you’d prefer to cycle, car parking at Haresfield Beacon, and is dog friendly (however livestock are sometimes in the fields).
Slad Valley
Another firm favourite is the Slad Valley walks! The beautiful green valley near Painswick and Stroud, the setting of ‘Cider with Rosie’ by local author Laurie Lee, offers a scenic, tranquil route suitable for hiking, walking or even running. It is steep in places so perhaps not suitable for all abilities, but if you’re up for a picturesque hike, this could be the route for you.
Painswick Beacon
Speaking of Painswick, Painswick Beacon offers an easier, shorter walk suitable for all abilities. Part of both the Cotswold Way and Wysis Way, this circular walk offers country paths, valleys, woodland, and fields! Be sure to take your camera for the beautiful views.
George at Cam over the fields to Frampton
The walk from the George at Cam across the fields to Frampton is another firm staff favourite. Beautiful countryside scenery, and you can either stop for a meal or a drink before your walk in Cam, or once you get to Frampton – 3 wonderful pubs to choose from wherever you decide to stop!
Minchinhampton and Rodborough Commons
Both of these commons offer spectacular views over both the Severn estuary and the Stroud Valleys, as well as wildlife, roaming cows, and the Stroud landscape project which works to restore wildlife in the local area. Perfect for children as the routes aren’t too challenging, and there’s plenty of wildlife for them to spot!
Symonds Yat
A bit further afield in the Forest of Dean, but with the River Wye and a famous viewpoint, Symonds Yat Rock is a great day out for walkers! With an ancient hill fort, log cabin café, car part, Biblins bridge, and multiple walking and cycling routes around the forest, there’s no better place to spend your day outdoors. If you’re lucky you might even spot a Falcon or Osprey at the viewpoint!
