The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Great Rissington
4.5
(2592)
13,599
hikers
13
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around Great Rissington traverse the quintessential Cotswold landscape, characterized by rolling hills, serene river valleys, and traditional villages built with honey-colored stone. The area features well-maintained trail networks, offering varied terrain for different abilities. Hikers will encounter modest woodlands, peaceful meadows, and the meandering River Windrush, which is incorporated into many routes. Expansive vistas of the Cotswolds countryside are common along the paths.
Best family friendly hiking trails around Great Rissington
- The most popular family friendly…
Last updated: May 4, 2026
4.8
(5)
28
hikers
7.23km
01:58
100m
100m
Moderate hike. Great for any fitness level. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
2.7
(3)
19
hikers
9.06km
02:25
100m
100m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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4.8
(10)
46
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(5)
30
hikers
13.3km
03:32
130m
130m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.8
(5)
12
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The patron saint of this church, dedicated to Saint Lawrence: He is one of the early Roman martyrs from a time when Christianity was still strictly forbidden. He was archdeacon to Pope Sixtus II and, after the latter's execution, was ordered by the pagan Emperor Valerian to hand over the Church's treasure. Lawrence asked for three days to do so, distributed the Church's wealth among the poor inhabitants of Rome, and after the agreed time, returned with the poor to the emperor to present them as the Church's treasure. He was then martyred; legend says he was roasted alive on a gridiron—an attribute seen in many depictions of Saint Lawrence—over coals. He is said to have been cheerful during this ordeal and asked his executioner if he would turn him over. Saint Lawrence's feast day in the liturgical calendar is August 10, the traditional date of his execution in the year 258 AD.
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In the middle of a small green area within the village, a cross rises atop a tall stone shaft. However, as hikers notice upon approach, this is by no means a small sacred monument in the sense of the wayside crosses common in some regions. Rather, this monument, like those found in many villages, is dedicated to the memory of the victims of war and tyranny.
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The public footpath through Manor Farm is no longer accessible as it is now private land and the roadway is blocked with electrically operated gates. You can detour around it via a bridleway.
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Tried to find more information about these fascinating buildings. No luck so far. Can anybody help?
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Saint LAWRENCE, to whom this church in Bourton-on-the-Water is dedicated, is one of the early Christian Roman martyrs from a time when Christianity was still strictly forbidden. He was the Pope's archdeacon and after his execution was ordered by the pagan Emperor Valerian to hand over the treasure of the church to him. Lawrence asked for three days to do this, distributed the church's wealth 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 gridiron - 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 feast day of Saint Lawrence in the calendar of saints is August 10, the recorded date of his execution in A.D. 258.
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An absolutely stunning river any time of the year. Packed full of brown trout in late spring, so take your polarised glasses and keep an eye out for them!
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A long, quiet footpath leads you between the wonderful Cotswolds villages of Little & Great Rissington. Enjoy scenes of rolling hills, farm animals, and bushy green trees that dot the landscape.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available around Great Rissington?
There are over 10 family-friendly hiking trails around Great Rissington, offering a variety of distances and experiences suitable for all ages. These routes range from easy strolls to moderate adventures through the picturesque Cotswold landscape.
Are there any easy, short walks suitable for families with young children or toddlers?
Yes, Great Rissington offers several easy routes perfect for families with young children. While specific 'toddler-friendly' routes are not explicitly listed, many of the paths feature gentle ascents and descents. For a moderate option that can be adapted, consider the Great Rissington & Little Rissington loop, which is just over 7 km and takes about 2 hours, offering charming village scenery.
What kind of terrain can we expect on family hikes in Great Rissington?
The terrain around Great Rissington is characterized by rolling hills, serene river valleys, and traditional Cotswold charm. You'll encounter a mix of well-maintained paths, peaceful meadows, and sometimes unpaved farm tracks. While generally accessible, some sections might be muddy after rain. Expect to see honey-colored stone villages and traditional dry stone walls along the way.
Are there circular routes suitable for families?
Absolutely! Many of the family-friendly trails around Great Rissington are circular, allowing you to start and end in the same location. An example is the Great Rissington to Great Barrington loop, which is a moderate 9 km route offering varied scenery.
What interesting landmarks or attractions can we see along the family-friendly hiking trails?
The trails often lead through or near charming Cotswold villages and natural features. You might encounter the meandering River Windrush, traditional dry stone walls, and 18th-century cottages. Nearby attractions include the picturesque Bourton-on-the-Water village, often called the 'Venice of the Cotswolds', and the charming village of Lower Slaughter with its historic Old Mill. The Bourton-on-the-Water village – River Windrush loop from Great Rissington is a great way to explore some of these sights.
Is parking available for family walks in Great Rissington?
Parking is generally available in and around Great Rissington, often in village car parks or designated roadside areas. It's advisable to check specific parking options for your chosen starting point, especially during peak season, to ensure a smooth start to your family adventure.
Are the trails around Great Rissington dog-friendly?
Many trails in the Cotswolds, including those around Great Rissington, are dog-friendly. However, it's essential to keep dogs on a lead, especially when passing through fields with livestock or nature reserves. Always follow the Countryside Code and clean up after your pet. The Great Rissington Village – The Fox Inn, Little Barrington loop is a popular option that includes village surroundings and countryside.
What is the best time of year to go hiking with family in Great Rissington?
Spring and summer are particularly lovely for family hikes in Great Rissington, with milder weather and blooming wildflowers. Autumn offers beautiful fall foliage. While winter walks can be charming, some paths may become muddy or slippery, so appropriate footwear is crucial. The area's natural beauty shines in all seasons, but for ease with children, spring and summer are often preferred.
Are there pubs or cafes near the family-friendly trails for refreshments?
Yes, the Cotswolds are known for their charming pubs and cafes. Many trails connect villages where you can find welcoming establishments for refreshments or a meal. For example, the Great Rissington Village – The Fox Inn, Little Barrington loop specifically mentions a pub in its name, indicating a good spot for a break.
What do other hikers enjoy the most about hiking in Great Rissington?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 2,500 reviews. Reviewers often praise the quintessential Cotswold scenery, the charming villages, and the well-maintained trail networks that offer expansive vistas of the countryside. The peaceful atmosphere and the blend of natural beauty with historical charm are frequently highlighted.
Is there a longer family-friendly route that offers more of the Cotswold landscape?
For families looking for a longer adventure, the River Eye Stepping Stones – Great Rissington Village loop from Great Rissington is a moderate 13.9 km route. It offers a more extensive exploration of the local landscape, including riverside sections and village views, providing a rewarding experience for active families.
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