The best walks and hikes around Buscot
4.4
(365)
2,845
hikers
190
hikes
Hiking around Buscot offers a network of trails primarily characterized by its proximity to the River Thames. The landscape features flat riverside paths, historic locks, and areas of woodland, providing gentle gradients suitable for various activity levels. The region's low elevation means routes are generally level, with minimal climbing.
Best hiking trails around Buscot
- The most popular hiking route is Buscot Lock – Ha'penny Bridge and Toll House loop from Buscot, a 6.3 miles (10.1 km) trail that takes…
Last updated: April 27, 2026
4.5
(6)
44
hikers
10.1km
02:33
10m
10m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(6)
65
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.0
(1)
49
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.7
(3)
25
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.5
(4)
16
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Badbury Hill is home to the Iron Age Badbury Camp, a circular hill fort partially leveled in the 19th century. It’s thought to be a possible site of the Battle of Mons Badonicus. The hill also has a WWII firing range on its west side. Today, Badbury Clump, a nine-acre wooded area, is known for its bluebells in May and is a popular spot for walkers and dog owners. It’s now managed by the National Trust.
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Saint JOHN BAPTIST, to whom this church is dedicated, is a person on the threshold of the Old and New Testaments (just like the Holy Family with Mary and Joseph). His parents are Zacharias and Elizabeth. After the announcement of the Incarnation of God through them, the Mother of God visits her relative Elizabeth, who will give birth to a son in old age, namely John the Baptist. He is half a year older than Jesus and is considered his forerunner/pioneer. He lives in the desert, preaches repentance from sins to the Jewish population and baptizes them in the Jordan. Jesus also comes there to be baptized, and is filled with the Holy Spirit who descends upon him from heaven. The memorial day of Saint John Baptist in the calendar of saints is June 24th, exactly half a year before 'Christmas Eve'.
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Its a very nice route if you do Clanfield to Coleshill.
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On the patronage of this church dedicated to "Saint LAWRENCE": He is one of the early Christian Roman martyrs from a time when Christianity was still strictly forbidden. He was archdeacon of Pope Sixtus II and after his execution was ordered by the pagan emperor Valerian to hand over the treasure of the church to him. Laurentius asked for three days to do this, distributed the church's assets among the poor inhabitants of Rome and, after the agreed time, came to the emperor with the poor to present them to him as the treasure of the church. He was then tortured to death. Legend has it that he was roasted alive on a grate - this attribute can be seen in many depictions of Saint Lawrence - over coals. He is said to have been in good spirits and asked his executioner if he would turn him over. The memorial day of Saint Lawrence in the calendar of saints is August 10th, the recorded date of his execution in A.D. 258.
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Please note. Halfpenny Bridge has been badly damaged by a drunk driver and access is closed for weeks, possibly months.
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This is a very nice little cafe with indoor and outdoor seating. A warm welcome on a cold day. Good choice of snacks and very pleasant inside.
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The buttercups in spring are beautiful and it's interesting to see the different boats passing by.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect on hiking trails around Buscot?
Hiking around Buscot is characterized by its proximity to the River Thames. You'll find primarily flat riverside paths, historic locks, and areas of woodland. The region's low elevation means routes are generally level, with minimal climbing, making them suitable for various activity levels.
Are there many easy hiking trails suitable for beginners or families in Buscot?
Yes, Buscot offers a significant number of easy hiking trails. Out of nearly 200 routes, about half are rated as easy. For a gentle option, consider the Badbury Clump Bluebell Woods – Badbury Clump loop from Buscot Park, an easy 5.8 km path through woodland.
Are there any circular hiking routes available in Buscot?
Many of the trails around Buscot are circular, offering convenient starting and ending points. An example is the Buscot Lock – Grafton Lock loop from Buscot, a 16.4 km route that takes you through riverside landscapes and returns to your starting point.
What are some interesting landmarks or attractions to see while hiking in Buscot?
The area around Buscot is rich in history and natural beauty. You can encounter landmarks such as the historic Ha'penny Bridge and Toll House, or the beautiful Badbury Clump Bluebell Woods. Kelmscott Manor is also nearby, offering a glimpse into the arts and crafts movement.
Can I find places to eat or drink near the hiking trails in Buscot?
Yes, there are options for refreshments. For instance, Blake's Kitchen at the Old Carpenters' Yard is a cafe in the vicinity. Additionally, the Castle Eaton Village offers a pub for a post-hike meal or drink.
Are there any viewpoints or scenic spots along the trails?
While Buscot's landscape is generally flat, there are scenic spots, particularly along the River Thames. For broader views, you might find the View of the Cotswolds Valley to be a rewarding detour, or the iconic Uffington White Horse and Wayland's Smithy Junction for a unique perspective.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Buscot?
The trails in Buscot are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.4 stars from over 340 reviews. Hikers often praise the tranquil riverside paths, the historical points of interest, and the gentle nature of the routes, making them enjoyable for a wide range of abilities.
Are there any long-distance hiking options near Buscot?
For those seeking a longer challenge, there are more extensive routes available. The Royal Air Force Fairford – Ha'penny Bridge and Toll House loop from Lechlade is a difficult 22 km trail that offers a more demanding experience, typically taking over 5 hours to complete.
Is wild swimming possible in the Buscot area?
Yes, for those interested in wild swimming, the Cheese Wharf Wild Swimming Spot is located in the Buscot area, offering a place to cool off in the river.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Buscot?
Given the flat riverside paths and woodland, Buscot is enjoyable throughout much of the year. Spring is particularly beautiful when the bluebells are in bloom at places like Badbury Clump. Autumn offers pleasant colors, and even winter walks can be serene along the Thames, provided conditions are not too icy or muddy.
Are the hiking trails around Buscot suitable for dogs?
Many of the riverside and woodland paths around Buscot are generally suitable for dogs, offering open spaces for walks. However, always be mindful of local signage, livestock in fields, and keep dogs under control, especially near nature reserves or private land.
How many hiking routes are there in total around Buscot?
There are nearly 200 hiking routes available around Buscot, offering a wide variety of distances and difficulties to explore the local landscape.
Most popular attractions around Buscot
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