4.6
(1361)
8,505
hikers
5
hikes
Goring-On-Thames bus station hikes offer access to a landscape shaped by the River Thames, which cuts through the chalk hills of the Goring Gap. This area connects the Chiltern Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty to the east with the North Wessex Downs AONB to the west. The terrain features a mix of riverside paths, rolling hills, ancient woodlands, and chalk grasslands. Hikers can explore varied environments, from gentle riverbanks to elevated viewpoints.
Last updated: May 3, 2026
4.8
(11)
57
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(6)
36
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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5.0
(2)
6
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
5
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
hikers
14.5km
03:58
200m
200m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Goring-On-Thames
Rivers and canals crisscross the country, as they were – especially in the early days of industrialisation – a very essential part of the transport infrastructure. After all, the factories needed the delivery of raw materials in previously unknown quantities, and the finished goods then had to find their way to the traders. Many of the canals originate from this era. Later, the railways and, later still, trucks took over the task of transporting goods. However, when building the artificial waterways and making the rivers navigable, it had to be taken into account that differences in altitude always had to be overcome, and so locks are often lined up along the canals and rivers – at more or less large intervals, depending on the local situation. Shipping could only be made possible with their help.
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A church was recorded here in the the Domesday Book (1086) but the oldest surviving part of the current church is the 15th century west tower. In 1864–65, the main body of the church was almost entirely rebuilt by architect Charles Buckeridge in a neo-Gothic style. During this work, original 13th-century flint and stone were reused.
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The Church of St Thomas of Canterbury in Goring-on-Thames, Oxfordshire, as origins dating back to around 1100. The church is known for its Norman architecture.
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Despite the fact that it's a smart restaurant, the staff are equally welcoming to wet and muddy hikers!
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A nice reward from the climb to take a seat and enjoy the view
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Rumoured to once have been a medieval hall house or manor before it became a pub. It was built in the 15th century or possibly earlier, It has two rooms, a large panelled tap room with inglenook fireplace and quarry-tiled floor, and a smaller L-shaped room. The bar itself is a servery with sliding glass partitions and hatches, and has no bar fittings at all save for ebony handpumps, which were fitted in 1902. The pub is also notable for having been owned and run by the same family continuously since the 18th century. The pub is a free house and sells beers from a number of local breweries.
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There are several hiking trails accessible directly from the bus station in Goring-On-Thames, with 5 routes detailed in this guide. These routes range from easy riverside strolls to more challenging climbs into the surrounding hills.
Yes, for an easy and family-friendly option, consider the Icknield Way – Goring-on-Thames village loop. This 6.5 km route offers gentle gradients and explores the historic village and parts of the ancient Icknield Way, making it suitable for most ages and fitness levels.
Absolutely. All the routes featured in this guide are circular, meaning you'll finish back near your starting point at the bus station. For example, the Goring Lock and Weir – The River Thames at Streatley loop offers a scenic return to Goring-On-Thames.
The Goring Gap area offers diverse and stunning views. You can expect magnificent vistas over the River Thames, rolling chalk downlands of the Chiltern Hills and North Wessex Downs, and ancient woodlands. Routes like the Viewpoint on Lough Down – The Bell Inn, Aldworth loop provide expansive views from higher ground.
Many of the trails in the Goring-On-Thames area are dog-friendly, passing through public footpaths and open countryside. It's always advisable to keep dogs under control, especially near livestock, and to check local signage for any specific restrictions in nature reserves or private land sections. The riverside paths are generally very popular with dog walkers.
The trails offer access to several notable points of interest. You can visit the picturesque Hartslock Nature Reserve, known for its orchids and wildlife, or pass by the historic Goring Lock and Weir. Other highlights include the iconic railway bridge by Isambard Kingdom Brunel and sections of the ancient Ridgeway National Trail and Thames Path.
Goring-On-Thames is beautiful year-round. Spring and early summer are particularly vibrant, with chalk grasslands bursting with wildflowers and bluebells in the woodlands. Autumn offers stunning foliage, while winter can provide crisp, clear views, though some paths may be muddy. Always check weather conditions before heading out.
Yes, Goring-On-Thames village itself has several pubs and cafes. Some routes, like the Viewpoint on Lough Down – The Bell Inn, Aldworth loop, can even incorporate a stop at a traditional village pub like The Bell Inn in Aldworth, offering a perfect refreshment break during your hike.
The duration varies depending on the route and your pace. The trails in this guide range from approximately 6.5 km to 14.4 km. An easy route like the Icknield Way – Goring-on-Thames village loop might take around 2 hours, while longer moderate routes such as the Viewpoint on Lough Down – Streatley Gardens loop could take 4-5 hours.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 1300 ratings. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, the stunning views of the Goring Gap, the well-maintained paths along the Thames, and the convenience of starting directly from the village, which is easily accessible by bus.
Yes, for a shorter riverside experience, the Goring Lock and Weir – The River Thames at Streatley loop is a great option. This 7.1 km moderate route focuses on the scenic Thames Path, offering beautiful views of the river, Goring Lock, and the historic Streatley village before returning to Goring-On-Thames.


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