4.6
(1922)
14,503
hikers
908
hikes
Hikes around Binfield Heath explore the South Oxfordshire countryside within the Chilterns National Landscape. The terrain is characterized by rolling hills, dense woodlands such as Bones Wood and High Wood, and open farmland. A network of footpaths connects the village to features like Crowsley Park and the surrounding rural landscape, with a small river also present in the area.
Last updated: July 1, 2026
4.8
(8)
27
hikers
Embark on a moderate hiking experience through the Chiltern Hills with the Bones Wood and Binfield Heath Church loop. This popular route covers 5.5 miles (8.9 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 202 feet (61 metres), typically taking about 2 hours and 19 minutes to complete. You will wander through dense woodlands like Bones Wood, past tall beech trees, and across open farmland, enjoying a diverse and peaceful landscape.
The paths on this loop are generally accessible, offering a mix of footpaths and some road sections. Starting from Binfield Heath, you can expect a straightforward journey suitable for most regular walkers. The area's trails are well-regarded, making this a great choice if you are looking for a well-maintained and enjoyable outing without significant logistical challenges.
This trail is a prime example of the South Oxfordshire countryside within the Chilterns National Landscape. As you hike, you can discover the remains of an old quarry within Bones Wood and pass by the distinct Binfield Heath Church, built in 1835 in an atypical Gothic style. The route's blend of natural beauty and historical points of interest makes it the most popular hiking option in this area.
5.0
(4)
19
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Sign up for free
5.0
(1)
28
hikers
10.4km
02:42
70m
70m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(4)
10
hikers
5.57km
01:28
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.5
(4)
21
hikers
6.57km
01:41
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
great place for a pit stop, either in the old pub or in the barn
0
0
The church in Shiplake was dedicated to the two Saints PETER & PAUL, also known as the "Prince of the Apostles". Their common feast day in the calendar of saints is June 29th for all major denominations. * Simon, nicknamed Peter (Rock), was a fisherman on Lake Genesareth when he - together with his brother Andrew - was called by Jesus Christ to be a "fisher of men". In works of fine art, Peter is almost always depicted with two keys in his hand; this attribute refers to the Bible verse in Matthew: "I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven; whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven." (Chapter 16, Verse 19). * Paul was initially an opponent of the Christian movement and was not called to the apostleship of Jesus Christ during his lifetime like the other apostles, but was only converted later with the famous "Damascus experience". His attribute is the sword with which he was executed. According to the Roman law of the time, such a sentence was a "privilege" (quick death and not, like other types of execution, associated with a long, painful death struggle) that was available to the citizens of Rome.
0
0
Binfield Heath Church (also known as Binfield Heath Chapel) is an independent evangelical church. It was built in 1835 for the Congregationalists as the village of Binfield Heath was growing in the early 19th century. What makes this church unusual is that it was built in the Gothic style, which, for churches built at that time, is atypical.
1
0
It is your peaceful farmland here, and in the summer, the green barley fields combined with the trees on the edges of the fields will give you a bit of a green attack! There is something about barley fields that is more aesthetically pleasing than other fields - maybe it's just me!
1
0
This area is a number of different woods, including Bones Wood and Gillsmithers Wood. It's a large enough area to be able to lose yourself amongst the tall beech trees, and be (mostly) cut off from the noise of the roads. Towards the north of the segment, there are remains of an old quarry in the forest - see if you can spot them!
1
0
Crowsley Park is owned by the BBC as a receiving station. There are satellite dishes dotted around the estate. The mansion house dates from the 18th century and some say it has a link to Arthur Conan Doyle's Hounds of the Baskervilles. The owner of the House, Henry Baskerville, was known to Conan Doyle, as well as his menacing reputation.
0
0
Lovely little church that's worth an explore in the town of Shiplake.
2
0
Bluebell wood on the right with access from footpath. Early May for best views
0
0
The hikes in this area are generally accessible, with most trails rated as easy or moderate. The terrain is part of the Chilterns National Landscape, featuring rolling hills rather than steep mountains. While some routes have gentle climbs, they are manageable for most regular walkers. There are over 300 moderate and nearly 500 easy routes to choose from.
Yes, circular walks are very common around Binfield Heath. Most trails are designed as loops that start and end in or near the village, allowing you to explore the surrounding woodlands and farmland without retracing your steps. A great example is the Binfield Heath Stores – Bicycle Dismount Section loop from Binfield Heath, which offers a pleasant circuit through the local countryside.
Binfield Heath is a great place for dog walking. The area offers numerous paths through open fields and woodlands where dogs can often walk off-leash, provided they are under control. Some routes may pass through farmland with livestock, so it's important to be prepared to use a leash in these sections. The nearby Piglittle Field is also a popular spot for dog walkers.
Definitely. Many of the shorter, easier walks are perfect for a family outing. These routes often stick to well-maintained footpaths with gentle slopes. The High Wood – Harpsden Wood loop from Shiplake is a good option, offering a relatively short walk through scenic woodland that can be enjoyed by all ages.
While Binfield Heath is a small village, on-street parking is often available, particularly near the village playground which serves as a starting point for several walks. For some routes, starting from nearby towns like Henley-on-Thames or Shiplake might offer more dedicated parking options. Always be sure to park considerately and check for any local restrictions.
The main attractions are the natural landscapes of the Chilterns. You'll hike through a mix of dense, ancient woodlands like High Wood and Bones Wood, and across open farmland with wide-reaching views. In spring, the woodlands are often carpeted in bluebells. Many trails also pass through the historic Crowsley Park estate, adding a touch of local history to your walk.
Yes, several routes pass by traditional country pubs, perfect for a rest or refreshment. The Bottle and Glass Inn and The Flowing Spring are two local pubs in the area. You can plan a route like The Plough Shiplake – Shiplake Boathouse loop from Shiplake, which starts and ends near a pub, making it easy to incorporate a stop into your day.
The area is highly regarded by the komoot community, with trails receiving an average rating of 4.6 stars. Hikers often praise the beautiful mix of quiet woodlands and open countryside, as well as the well-maintained network of footpaths that make exploring the Chilterns so enjoyable.
There is a vast network of trails to explore, with over 800 hiking routes in and around Binfield Heath. These range from short, gentle strolls to more challenging all-day treks, ensuring there's a walk to suit every fitness level and interest.
Yes, you can find stile-free walks in the area, which are ideal for those with mobility concerns or for walkers with large dogs. One such route is the 'Hound of the Baskervilles Walk', a 5-mile circular trail that explores the countryside around the village on paths without stiles.
The landscape is a classic English countryside scene. It's defined by its picturesque rolling hills, ancient beech woodlands, and a patchwork of open farmland. The trails offer a peaceful escape, with a diverse range of flora and fauna, including frequent sightings of local birdlife like Buzzards and Yellowhammers.
Yes, several walking routes incorporate the historic Crowsley Park. The Binfield Heath Church – Crowsley Park loop from Clayfield Copse is a moderate hike that takes you through the estate, offering a lovely mix of parkland, woodland, and open country scenery.


Browse the best Hikes in other regions.