The best walks and hikes around Crudwell
4.4
(788)
6,581
hikers
337
hikes
Hiking around Crudwell offers access to diverse trails within the picturesque Cotswolds, characterized by gentle rolling hills, serene meadows, and traditional English countryside. The region is notable for its proximity to the Source of the River Thames, providing unique opportunities to explore the beginnings of England's longest river. Hikers can experience tranquil rural scenery and charming villages, making it a prime area for walks.
Best hiking trails around Crudwell
- The most popular hiking route is Source of the Thames andβ¦
Last updated: May 8, 2026
4.7
(19)
66
hikers
10.1km
02:37
70m
70m
Hike the moderate 6.2-mile Source of the Thames and Tarlton Village Loop through Cotswold meadows to the Thames' origin.
4.8
(20)
75
hikers
16.3km
04:12
80m
90m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.0
(1)
16
hikers
3.40km
00:53
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
19
hikers
3.44km
00:52
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
18
hikers
1.42km
00:22
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
If You Have Never Seen the Source of River Thames, Probably worth a look.
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What you don't expect: You'll be happy to find shade on the Thames Path, as large parts of it are very sunny and temperatures are around 30 degrees, especially in summer. Even when it rains, a little protection from trees is good. In the event of a thunderstorm, it's definitely advisable to take refuge in a small wood like this instead of continuing on the path in open terrain. We needed to do this twice.
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A pretty little pub, the kind we would often visit on our way along the Thames. The food is very good here, and there is even a small library inside for children. You can also eat outside, but the beer garden is very sunny, so we preferred to stay inside when it was 32 degrees.
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A little difficult to find, but if you can move freely across the meadows with GPS, you will also find the source of the Thames.
2
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The source of the Thames is a little difficult to find because it is in the middle of cultivated meadows. We had to take a little detour because there were huge combine harvesters driving right through the meadows. However, once you cross the field, you will find a fenced-in area where the spring is marked. We were there in midsummer, so there was no water bubbling here. Another new experience: a spring without water.
2
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Kemble railway station is a railway station that serves the village of Kemble in Gloucestershire, England. The station is on the Swindon to Gloucester "Golden Valley" line, 90 miles 79 chains (146.4 km) from the zero point at Paddington. Despite its rural location, Kemble station has a high number of passengers, due mainly to the proximity of Cirencester.
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1
Underwhelming. The main reason to go there is the ability to say you have been there.
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1
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of landscape can I expect when hiking around Crudwell?
Hiking around Crudwell offers a quintessential Cotswolds experience, characterized by gentle rolling hills, serene meadows, and traditional English countryside. You'll find picturesque rural scenery and charming villages, with many trails providing access to the very beginnings of England's longest river, the Source of the River Thames.
How many hiking trails are available around Crudwell?
There are over 340 hiking routes available around Crudwell. These range from easy strolls through villages to more extended explorations of the surrounding countryside.
Are there easy hiking trails suitable for beginners or families in Crudwell?
Yes, Crudwell offers a good selection of easy trails. For instance, the Kemble Village β Kemble Village loop from Kemble is an easy 2.1-mile (3.4 km) trail that takes about 52 minutes, leading through rural village scenery. Another easy option is the Sandpool Farm Nature Reserve loop from Oaksey, which is 3.4 miles (3.4 km) long.
Can I find circular hiking routes in the Crudwell area?
Many of the trails around Crudwell are circular, allowing you to start and end in the same location. A popular example is the Source of the Thames and Tarlton Village Loop, a 6.3-mile (10.1 km) moderate route through Cotswold meadows.
What are some notable natural features or landmarks to see while hiking near Crudwell?
A significant natural feature is the Source of the River Thames, which many trails explore. You can also find other natural monuments and points of interest such as the Tallest Yew Hedge in the World and the Cirencester Amphitheatre nearby.
Are there any lakes or water features accessible from hiking trails?
Yes, the area around Crudwell includes several lakes. You can find the Lake at Cotswold Water Park and Abbey Grounds Park, which offer pleasant waterside views and walks.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Crudwell?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 750 reviews. Hikers often praise the tranquil rural scenery, the gentle rolling hills, and the unique experience of exploring the Source of the River Thames.
Is Crudwell well-connected by public transport for hikers?
While Crudwell itself is a rural village, the nearby village of Kemble has a railway station, which can serve as an accessible starting point for several trails. From Kemble, you can access routes like the Source of the River Thames β Source of the River Thames loop from Kemble.
Are the hiking trails around Crudwell suitable for dogs?
The Cotswolds generally offer many dog-friendly walking opportunities. While specific restrictions may apply in certain areas, the open countryside and public footpaths around Crudwell are typically suitable for dogs, provided they are kept under control, especially near livestock.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Crudwell?
The Cotswolds are beautiful year-round. Spring brings wildflowers and lush greenery, while autumn offers stunning foliage. Summer is ideal for longer days, and even winter can be pleasant for crisp walks, though paths may be muddy. Always check local conditions before heading out.
Are there any longer, more challenging hikes available near Crudwell?
Yes, for those seeking a longer experience, the Source of the River Thames β Source of the River Thames loop from Kemble is a moderate 10.1-mile (16.3 km) path. This trail offers an extended exploration of the river's source area, featuring open countryside and gentle ascents, typically taking over 4 hours to complete.
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