4.6
(1741)
12,651
hikers
10
hikes
Bus station hiking trails around Mapledurham offer access to the rural landscapes of South Oxfordshire, characterized by the River Thames and verdant surroundings. The area features gentle terrain, with minimal elevation changes, making it suitable for various hiking abilities. Hikers can explore a blend of natural riverside beauty and historical landmarks such as Mapledurham House and Watermill. This region provides a network of paths through woodlands and along the Thames, connecting villages and points of interest.
Last updated: May 3, 2026
5.0
(1)
3
hikers
21.2km
05:37
200m
200m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
5.0
(1)
19
hikers
5.01km
01:18
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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3.0
(1)
15
hikers
8.26km
02:12
90m
90m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
15
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(2)
8
hikers
8.33km
02:12
80m
80m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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There is an ancient Iron Age hill fort hidden within the New Copse's beech woodland. As you walk past, you can see the ditches in the ground. There are many places like this in the Chilterns, which completely abounds in hill forts such as this. Alas, little is known about them.
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These Almshouses were established by Henry Alnutt (a lawyer of Middle Temple in London) in 1724. These make the three sides of the courtyard. There is also a chapel constructed around the same time. In the 1880s, a school was built, attempting to be in the same architectural style, and in 1900 a post office was added. It's a very impressive building!
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Caversham Heath is shared by The Caversham, home of Reading Golf Club. Footpaths criss-cross the area, with open views and woodlands.
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Hidden in the woods, Old Palm is steeped in legend. It is said that a tunnel reached from Mapledurham House to the statue as an escape route for the Blout family, who were Roman Catholics during the time of Catholic persecution. Others say that if you walk round the statue three times, the devil will appear. Still more say that Old Palm climbs down from his plinth every Christmas Eve to share good cheer.
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Across the river in Oxfordshire is a wonderful view of Hardwick House, supposedly the inspiration for Toad Hall, as illustrated by E H Shepard in Kenneth Grahame's 'The Wind in the Willows'. You can also see Hardwick Stud, (recognisable by the clock tower) which is part of the Hardwick estate, renowned for breeding race horses.
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Mapledurham Lock is in fact on the south side of the River Thames in the village of Purley. It was built in the late 18th century with the current bigger upgrade built in 1908.
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Beautiful carpeted woods, lasting only a few weeks in spring
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There are 10 distinct hiking trails available that start conveniently from bus stations in and around Mapledurham. These routes offer a variety of experiences, from easy riverside strolls to more challenging woodland treks.
The terrain around Mapledurham is generally verdant and rural, characteristic of South Oxfordshire, often featuring riverside paths along the River Thames and gentle inclines through woodlands. While many routes are relatively flat, such as the Mapledurham Lock โ View of Hardwick House loop from Purley on Thames with minimal elevation, some longer trails like the Castle Grove Camp and Old Palm loop from Chazey Heath โ Chiltern Hills can include over 200 meters of ascent, offering a more challenging workout.
Yes, Mapledurham offers several easy routes perfect for families. The Bardolph's Wood loop from Kidmore End is a great option, covering about 5 km with minimal elevation, making it suitable for a leisurely family outing. These trails often feature serene, rural landscapes.
Absolutely. Many of the trails accessible from bus stations in Mapledurham are circular, allowing you to return to your starting point without retracing your steps. For example, the Old Palm Statue loop from Kidmore End is a moderate circular route that takes you through varied scenery.
Mapledurham's trails offer a blend of historical charm and natural beauty. You can expect to see the picturesque River Thames, historic bridges like Whitchurch Bridge, and the tranquil rural landscapes. While not directly on every bus station route, the area is known for attractions like Mapledurham House and Watermill, which contribute to the region's unique character.
Yes, many of the trails around Mapledurham are dog-friendly, offering plenty of open spaces and natural environments for your canine companion. Always remember to keep dogs under control, especially near livestock, and check for any specific local signage regarding dog access.
Mapledurham is beautiful year-round, but spring and autumn offer particularly pleasant hiking conditions with mild temperatures and vibrant scenery. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, while autumn showcases stunning foliage along the River Thames and through the woodlands. Summer is also popular, though paths can be busier.
Yes, if you're looking for a moderate challenge, consider the Caversham Heath โ Old Palm Statue loop from Kidmore End. This route covers approximately 8.2 km with around 88 meters of elevation gain, providing a good balance of distance and gentle ascents through the scenic countryside.
The trails around Mapledurham are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the peaceful riverside walks, the charming rural scenery, and the convenience of accessing these beautiful routes directly from public transport hubs.
Many trails offer lovely views, particularly those that follow the River Thames. You'll find picturesque stretches along the river, offering serene vistas of the water and surrounding countryside. The area's rural setting ensures plenty of natural beauty to enjoy.


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