The best walks and hikes around Horsley
4.6
(1513)
12,591
hikers
805
hikes
Hiking around Horsley, Gloucestershire, offers access to the varied landscapes of the Cotswolds. The area is characterized by rolling hills, deep valleys, and extensive woodlands, typical of the Cotswold Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Limestone escarpments and traditional Cotswold stone villages are prominent features. The terrain provides a mix of gentle paths and more challenging ascents, making it suitable for various hiking abilities.
Best hiking trails around Horsley
- The most popular hiking route is Nailsworth & Avening loop via Hazel…
Last updated: April 22, 2026
4.7
(11)
51
hikers
10.4km
02:57
220m
220m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(21)
70
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
4.9
(9)
33
hikers
9.87km
02:44
170m
170m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(10)
30
hikers
9.22km
02:37
200m
200m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(3)
15
hikers
4.64km
01:23
130m
130m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
If you find yourself in Gloucestershire, Woodchester Mansion in Nympsfield is worth considering. It's an unfinished Gothic revival house with a peculiar story, as construction halted in the mid-1870s, leaving it complete externally but with many interior spaces unfinished. The mansion opens seasonally to the public, and also seasonally houses a cafe. This unique state of preservation, along with a resident bat colony, makes for a rather distinct and thought-provoking visit.
0
0
Beautiful trails to choose from whether via lake, woodland or track - rewarding stop off at Henry’s at Woodchester for brunch, tea variations, barista coffee, pastries and cake.. not to mention Stroud Brewery Beers, Oliver’s Fine Cider and Woodchester Valley Wines. Adventure trail for children and adults👌💫
0
0
This is an absolutely stunning place for garden accessories. They're sustainably crafted / sourced, they look really pretty, and they're amazing value! I'd highly recommend checking them out online! I wasn't aware they existed until passing the store on this walk, I now own a few nest boxes & bird feeders.
0
0
Lovely cafe serving excellent coffee, cakes and sausage rolls
1
0
The Barn is a really nice little cafe with a great vibe about it. There's seating inside about 8 or so along the window and a few tables. The wood fire makes for a cozy feel. There are several tables outside on a nice day. The cafe serves coffee and soft drinks, cakes and a few savouries like bacon sandwiches and sausage rolls.
0
0
Looks like you can hire this bluebell wood for weddings and ceremonies. Bizarre but beautiful to hear ceilidh music in the Gloucestershire countryside. Best seen in May
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Horsley?
There are over 800 hiking routes around Horsley, offering a wide variety of experiences. This includes over 430 easy trails, 340 moderate routes, and nearly 40 more challenging hikes, catering to all ability levels.
What kind of terrain can I expect when hiking in Horsley?
Hiking in Horsley features the classic Cotswolds landscape, characterized by rolling hills, deep valleys, and extensive woodlands. You'll encounter limestone escarpments and traditional Cotswold stone villages, with a mix of gentle paths and more strenuous ascents.
Are there any easy, family-friendly hikes in the Horsley area?
Yes, Horsley offers many easy, family-friendly options. An excellent choice is the Shipton’s Grave Lane – Cotswolds Woodland loop from Nailsworth, an easy 4.6 km (2.9 miles) trail that takes about 1 hour 20 minutes to complete, perfect for a leisurely stroll with children.
Can I find circular walks around Horsley?
Many of the trails around Horsley are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Kingscote – Kingscote Woods loop from Horsley is a moderate 9.2 km (5.7 miles) route that offers beautiful woodland scenery.
What are some interesting landmarks or attractions to see along the trails?
The Horsley area is rich in historical and natural landmarks. You can explore sites like the Iron Age hillfort at Uley Bury, the ancient Nympsfield Long Barrow, or enjoy panoramic views from Haresfield Beacon. The William Tyndale Monument is another notable point of interest.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Horsley?
The trails in Horsley are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from over 1,400 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the diverse landscapes, well-maintained paths, and the charm of the Cotswold villages encountered along the routes.
Are there any trails that pass by historical ruins or significant sites?
Yes, several trails offer glimpses into the region's history. The Beverston Castle Ruins – The Barn Café at Chavenage loop from Beverston is an easy route that takes you past historic ruins and offers scenic countryside views.
Are there any good viewpoints or summits to reach on a hike?
Absolutely. For stunning vistas, consider hiking to Haresfield Beacon or Downham Hill (Smallpox Hill). These spots offer expansive views over the surrounding Cotswolds landscape and beyond.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Horsley?
Horsley is beautiful year-round, but spring and autumn are particularly popular. Spring brings blooming wildflowers and lush greenery, while autumn offers vibrant foliage. Summer is ideal for longer days, and even winter hikes can be rewarding with crisp air and fewer crowds, though paths may be muddy.
Are there options for longer, more challenging hikes?
While many routes are easy to moderate, Horsley does offer more challenging options for experienced hikers. These trails often feature greater elevation changes and cover longer distances, providing a more strenuous workout amidst the rolling hills of the Cotswolds.
Are there any trails that go through woodlands or forests?
Yes, the Horsley area is known for its extensive woodlands. Many routes, such as the Nailsworth & Avening loop via Hazel Woods — The Cotswolds, wind through beautiful forests, offering shaded paths and a chance to experience the local flora and fauna.
Most popular attractions around Horsley
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
