The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Shipton-On-Cherwell And Thrupp
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Family friendly hiking trails around Shipton-On-Cherwell And Thrupp are characterized by tranquil waterways, rural farming country, and historical sites. The area features the Oxford Canal and River Cherwell, which carve picturesque routes through the landscape, offering accessible towpaths. A disused limestone quarry in Shipton-on-Cherwell provides a unique geological SSSI with diverse wildlife habitats. The broader landscape includes peaceful farming country, rich in plants and wildlife.
Best family friendly hiking trails around Shipton-On-Cherwell And Thrupp
- The most popular family friendly hiking…
Last updated: May 20, 2026
4.8
(12)
61
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
8
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(1)
6
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. 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.
5.0
(1)
8
hikers
4.75km
01:13
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Great pub , good food Great drinks
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Great ride can be quite busy at week ends
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saw a family of deer in the woodland. got a bit lost at one point but managed to find a path again!
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This church, which is dedicated to the Holy Cross (Latin "Santa Croce"), takes its patronage from the cross on which Jesus Christ died. The veneration of the Holy Cross goes back in large part to Saint Helena, who was the mother of Emperor Constantine the Great (who recognized Christianity as a religion after his victory at the "Milvian Bridge" in front of Rome and ended the long period of persecution with the "Edict of Toleration" of Milan in 312). In the early fourth century, she made a pilgrimage to the Holy Land (Israel / Palestine) and brought numerous relics back to Europe, including the "True Cross" on which Jesus Christ was crucified. Helena is therefore often depicted with a cross as an attribute. The church celebrates the feast of the discovery, public presentation and veneration of the Holy Cross - called the "Exaltation of the Cross" - on September 14th.
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Young deciduous woodland planted by the Forestry Commission in 1990s along the River Cherwell between Thrupp and Kidlington.
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Church. Medieval; rebuilt and west tower added in 1831 by William Turner; minor restoration by J. Buckeridge, 1869. Squared and coursed limestone with ashlar dressings; stone-coped gabled stone slate roof. Nave, chancel and west tower. Gothic Revival style. One-bay chancel has offset corner buttresses, 3-light Decorated-style east window and 2-light side windows. Two-bay south side of nave has hood mould over chamfered pointed-arched blocked doorway, and label moulds over 2-light ogee-headed cinquefoiled windows; to north side are similar windows flanking early C14 reset Decorated porch, which has hood mould with rosettes and unusually primitive head corbels over hollow-chamfered pointed-arched doorway with rosettes; Cl9 pointed-arched inner doorway. Three-stage west tower has hood moulds over cinquefoiled windows and battlemented parapet with corner gargoyles. Interior: arch-braced roof throughout, with moulded beams, wind braces and king posts, set on plain corbels adorned with arms of past vicars and lords of the manor. Chancel has mid C19 Minton tile floor, and early C14 reset cinquefoiled tomb recess. Double-chamfered chancel arch has traceried Decorated-style panels flanking brattished Perpendicular-style traceried wood screen made in 1896. Nave has wood traceried pulpit set on stone base, C18 parish chest, C11 tub font reset on late C19 piers and C19 west door. Late C19 stained glass throughout. Memorials: in chancel are wall tablets to John Rathbone, d.1613, set in coloured moulded architrave, Stephen Pomfrett, d.1713, with carved stall and hourglass set above roundel , and Gothic-style memorial to William Turner. Also in chancel is medieval child's coffin. Ledger stone in nave to Edward Egleton, d,1722. Pictures of church before restoration show that chancel had north chapel (whence tomb recess was moved) and that present C14 porch lay to south. William Turner was an Oxford watercolourist and his uncle William Turner of The Manor (q.v.) provided the money for restoration. (Buildings of England: Oxfordshire: pp757-8; Information from VCH National Monuments Record; Bodleian Library, Topographical Drawings)
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available in Shipton-On-Cherwell And Thrupp?
There are 7 easy, family-friendly hiking trails in the Shipton-On-Cherwell And Thrupp area, all suitable for a relaxed outing with children. These routes are generally flat and follow scenic paths along waterways and through charming countryside.
What kind of natural features can we expect to see on family hikes here?
The area is rich in natural beauty, centered around the tranquil Oxford Canal and the River Cherwell. You'll often find picturesque towpaths, pollarded willows, and diverse birdlife. A notable natural feature is a disused limestone quarry in Shipton-on-Cherwell, now a Site of Special Scientific Interest, home to various orchid species and butterflies.
Are there any historical landmarks or points of interest suitable for families along these trails?
Absolutely! Many trails offer glimpses into the region's history. For example, the Hampton Gay Manor Ruins – Thrupp Community Forest loop from Oxford Airport allows you to explore the remains of a deserted village and its ruined manor. You might also encounter historic canal infrastructure like Aubrey's Lift Bridge or the attractive Shipton church, which dates back to at least 1200.
Are the family-friendly trails in Shipton-On-Cherwell And Thrupp suitable for toddlers or pushchairs?
Many of the trails along the Oxford Canal and River Cherwell feature relatively flat towpaths, which can be suitable for pushchairs, especially those designed for off-road use. For a gentle, shorter option, consider the Annie's at Canal Yard – Hampton Gay Manor Ruins loop from Oxford Airport, which is just over 3 km long.
What is the best time of year to go hiking with family in this region?
The Shipton-On-Cherwell And Thrupp area is lovely for family hikes throughout the year. Spring brings wildflowers and active birdlife, while summer offers pleasant canal-side strolls. Autumn showcases beautiful foliage, and even winter walks can be charming, especially along the frozen canal, though paths might be muddy. Always check local conditions before heading out.
Are there any circular family walks available?
Yes, several routes are designed as circular walks, perfect for families. The Thrupp Community Forest – The Boat Inn loop from Oxford Airport is a great example, offering a scenic round trip that brings you back to your starting point.
Can we combine a family hike with a pub lunch or cafe stop?
Yes, the area is well-suited for this! Many routes pass by or start near charming local establishments. For instance, the The Boat Inn – Annie's at Canal Yard loop from Shipton-on-Cherwell connects two popular spots where you can enjoy refreshments before or after your walk.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the family-friendly trails here?
The komoot community highly rates the trails in Shipton-On-Cherwell And Thrupp, with an average score of 4.58 stars. Reviewers often praise the peaceful canal-side paths, the ease of the routes for all ages, and the charming village atmosphere, making it ideal for a relaxed family day out.
Are dogs allowed on the family-friendly hiking trails?
Generally, dogs are welcome on public footpaths and towpaths in the Shipton-On-Cherwell And Thrupp area. However, it's always best to keep them on a lead, especially near livestock or in nature reserves, and to clean up after them. Specific rules may apply in certain areas, so look out for signage.
What are some nearby attractions that could complement a family hiking trip?
Beyond the immediate trails, you're close to several significant attractions. You could visit the impressive Blenheim Palace — UNESCO World Heritage Site, explore its vast parklands, and see the Grand Bridge. Other historical sites within reasonable distance include the ruins of Minster Lovell Hall and the ancient Rollright Stones, offering more to explore for curious families.
Is there parking available near the trailheads for family hikes?
Yes, parking is generally available in or near the villages of Shipton-on-Cherwell and Thrupp, often close to popular starting points for walks along the canal or river. It's advisable to check local signage for any parking restrictions or fees.
Can we reach the family-friendly trails using public transport?
While the area is primarily rural, some public transport options might connect to nearby towns. For detailed information on bus routes and schedules to Shipton-on-Cherwell and Thrupp, it's best to consult local transport websites or services like Oxfordshire County Council's public transport information.
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