4.5
(378)
2,625
hikers
112
hikes
Bus station hiking trails around Padworth Gully traverse a landscape characterized by a diverse mix of heathland, ancient woodlands, and distinctive wet, alder-lined gullies. The area features a network of public footpaths, with many routes offering relatively flat terrain. Hikers can explore peaceful footpaths winding through woodlands and open heathland, with some trails following sections of the Kennet and Avon Canal. This varied environment provides accessible routes for a range of fitness levels.
Last updated: June 29, 2026
4.9
(7)
50
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(4)
13
hikers
12.4km
03:13
70m
80m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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9
hikers
4.83km
01:15
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
7
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
6
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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This is silly, & a bit tasteless, but I was once told (jokingly albeit) that the man hole is for the un-dead to get in & out of their graves. It part of a happy memory from when I once waked here in February 2025 with someone very dear to me that I've since lost.
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This pond is nestled within the woodland of Benyon's Inclosure. There is an embankment with a track that runs across the pond offering a pleasant pathway to stroll out, take in the views, and observe the surrounding wildlife.
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Quiet spot right next to Kennet Avon canal
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The River Kennet is a tributary of the River Thames and has a good towpath system in the main, but it can be a tad narrow in places. It forms part of NCN Route 4 that travels from London to Fishguard. A considerable section of this route is on the Kennet & Avon Cycle Route using the canal towpath. Here the village of Woolhampton sits across the swing bridge, there is a lock, a nearby pub, and The Rowbarge Inn, which backs onto the canal.
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The Kennet and Avon Canal runs for 87 miles (140 km) from the River Avon in Bath to Reading and the River Thames. It was completed in 1810 and then repaired between 1960 and 1990 after falling into disrepair due to the railways. Today it's almost completely leisure use with a brilliant tow-path running almost the entire length, perfect for car free miles of flat riding.
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Lovely café, now open sensible days and times. Fair prices and choices.
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Found inside the lovely church of St Mary’s near Silchester. Nil desperandum - my new motto for hills
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There are over 110 hiking trails around Padworth Gully that are accessible from bus stations, offering a wide variety of options for different preferences and fitness levels.
Yes, Padworth Gully offers many easy hiking trails accessible by bus. With over 59 easy routes, you'll find plenty of gentle paths suitable for a relaxed stroll. An example is the Woodland Forest – Kiln Pond and Beaver Sculpture loop from Silchester, which is just over 5 km long.
Absolutely. Many of the trails in Padworth Gully are suitable for families, featuring gentle terrain and interesting natural sights. The varied habitats, including woodlands and ponds, provide engaging experiences for all ages. Consider the Wooden Seesaw in the Forest loop from Silchester for a pleasant family outing.
Yes, Padworth Gully is generally dog-friendly, with many public footpaths and bridleways suitable for walks with your canine companion. Always keep dogs under control, especially around wildlife and livestock, and be mindful of local signage regarding leads. The diverse woodlands and heathlands offer plenty of scents and spaces for dogs to enjoy.
Yes, many of the bus-accessible routes around Padworth Gully are circular, allowing you to start and end your hike at the same bus stop without needing to retrace your steps. For example, the Kiln Pond and Beaver Sculpture – Woodland Forest loop from Padworth Common is a great circular option.
Hikes in Padworth Gully offer a rich tapestry of natural features. You can expect to see varied habitats including heathland, ancient woodlands, and distinctive wet, alder-lined gullies. Several trails also follow sections of the Kennet and Avon Canal, providing pleasant waterside views. Keep an eye out for diverse wildlife, including various bird species, butterflies, and amphibians.
Padworth Gully is enjoyable year-round, but each season offers unique highlights. Spring brings marsh-marigold and lesser celandine to the wet gullies. Summer is ideal for spotting dragonflies and butterflies on the heathland. Autumn showcases beautiful woodland colours, while winter offers tranquil, crisp walks through the varied landscapes.
Most routes in Padworth Gully feature relatively gentle terrain. For example, the Path Through the Field – Silchester Trail waymarker loop from Silchester has an elevation gain of around 27 meters, making the area accessible for a wide range of fitness levels.
While specific establishments vary by bus stop and route, the region around Padworth Gully, including villages like Aldermaston and Woolhampton, often has local pubs that can serve as a welcome stop before or after your hike. The The Rowbarge – Woolhampton Lock loop from Aldermaston, for instance, passes through areas with potential refreshment options.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.49 stars. Reviewers often praise the tranquil atmosphere, the diverse mix of heathland and woodlands, and the accessibility of the trails. The peaceful footpaths and the opportunity for wildlife observation are frequently highlighted as key attractions.
No, permits are not generally required for hiking on the public footpaths and bridleways within Padworth Gully and the surrounding Berkshire area. You are free to explore the extensive network of trails at your leisure.


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