The best walks and hikes in Berkshire

Yes, Berkshire is a great place to walk with your dog. Many trails pass through open commons and woodlands. For a well-regarded option, consider the Greenham & Cookham Commons loop. Another excellent choice is Snelsmore Common Country Park, which is a local favorite for dog walkers, offering plenty of space and varied paths. Just be mindful of seasonal restrictions, especially during bird nesting season on the heaths.

Many circular routes in Berkshire are conveniently located near traditional pubs. A great example is the Stanford Dingley & Bradfield loop via River Pang. The village of Stanford Dingley is known for its charming pubs, making it an ideal spot to relax after your walk through the Pang Valley.

Berkshire offers numerous gentle walks perfect for a family outing. The Basildon Park Blue Walk loop is an excellent choice, offering a relatively short and easy trail through scenic parkland. Another popular spot for families is Swinley Forest, which has well-maintained paths suitable for all ages and abilities.

Many country parks and nature reserves in Berkshire offer free parking for visitors. Snelsmore Common Country Park near Newbury is a popular starting point with ample parking. Similarly, you can often find free on-street parking in the villages that serve as trailheads for many rural walks, though it's always best to check for local restrictions.

Yes, several notable long-distance paths cross Berkshire. The Thames Path National Trail follows the river along the county's northern border, offering extensive waterside walking. The Kennet & Avon Canal Towpath also provides a long, relatively flat route through the heart of the region. Both can be walked in shorter sections, such as the Linear Park, Holy Brook & The Kennet & Avon Canal loop from Calcot.

The North Wessex Downs National Landscape covers a large part of western Berkshire and is characterized by rolling chalk hills, ancient woodlands, and quiet valleys. Hikes here often involve moderate climbs that reward you with expansive views. A good example of the terrain is the Great Shefford loop, which showcases the area's beautiful pastoral scenery.

There is a wide variety of trails to explore, with over 690 hiking routes available on komoot. These range from over 360 easy walks suitable for beginners and families to more than 300 moderate trails for those seeking a bit more of a challenge.

The hiking routes in Berkshire are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from over 800 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the mix of scenery, from peaceful riverside paths along the Thames and Kennet & Avon Canal to the quiet, ancient woodlands found in places like Sulham Woods.

Yes, many trails in Berkshire are accessible by public transport. Towns like Newbury, Reading, and Pangbourne have train stations and serve as excellent starting points for numerous walks. For instance, you can easily access trails along the Kennet & Avon Canal from Newbury station or explore the Thames Path from Pangbourne.

Certainly. Berkshire has several nature reserves with dedicated walking paths. For a route that combines different habitats, try the Thatcham Reedbed Nature Reserve & Greenham Common loop. This trail takes you through important wetland habitats, known for birdwatching, before crossing onto the open heathland of the common.

Circular walks are very popular in Berkshire as they allow you to explore an area without retracing your steps. You can find loops of all lengths and difficulties. For a moderately challenging circular route through classic Berkshire woodland and fields, consider the Frilsham loop via Highwood Copse.