The best walks and hikes around Drayton St. Leonard
4.6
(840)
6,544
hikers
420
hikes
Hiking around Drayton St. Leonard, Oxfordshire, is characterized by its proximity to the River Thame, which connects to the Thames Path. The region features varied terrain, including flat river meadows and the distinct hills of Wittenham Clumps. Trails often pass through areas rich in wildlife, such as Berinsfield Country Park, providing diverse natural scenery. The landscape is primarily flat, with underlying Gault Clay and gravel, but rivers and landmarks introduce natural slopes.
Best hiking trails around Drayton St. Leonard
- The most popular hiking route is Day's Lock – Wittenham Clumps loop from Dorchester-on-Thames, a 5.7 miles (9.1 km) trail that takes 2 hours 25 minutes to complete. This route offers views of the Wittenham Clumps and the surrounding countryside.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Shillingford Bridge – Wittenham Clumps loop from Dorchester-on-Thames, a moderate 7.5 miles (12.1 km) path. This trail features sections along the River Thames and ascends to the Wittenham Clumps.
- Local hikers also love the Shillingford Bridge – Little Wittenham Wood loop from Dorchester-on-Thames, a 7.8 miles (12.6 km) trail leading through Little Wittenham Wood, often completed in about 3 hours 23 minutes.
- Hiking around Drayton St. Leonard is defined by riverside paths along the River Thame, the historic Thames Path, and the distinctive Wittenham Clumps. The network offers options for easy, moderate, and more challenging routes suitable for various ability levels.
- The routes in Drayton St. Leonard are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 700 reviews. More than 6,000 hikers have used komoot to explore Drayton St. Leonard's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 12, 2026
4.8
(6)
46
hikers
4.36km
01:06
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(9)
25
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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3.5
(4)
7
hikers
12.6km
03:22
150m
150m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
9
hikers
15.4km
03:58
70m
70m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
10
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Added to the collection: komoot.com/de-de/collection/3600632/-naturdenkmaeler-besondere-baeume-und-weitere-schaetze-der-natur
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Beautiful Garden to the rear of the Abbey. Sit quietly and reflect by the cross.
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Little Wittenham has a very pretty church. It is surprising to find that it is not terribly ancient, for it was almost entirely rebuilt in 1862. The original building was built for the monks of Abingdon Abbey who held a monastic grange next door. The 14th century tower is original, as is its 'Ace of Spades' window - a reminder that this playing card paid for its erection when it brought a huge win to a local merchant! This may be a variant on the old story which suggests that the last of the Dunch family at the manor gambled away his home to King James II. The Dunches once had a family chapel on the south side of the chancel. Their fine monuments are now squeezed into the space under the tower. The great treasure of the church is the large monument to Sir William Dunch (1612) and his wife, Mary, the aunt of Oliver Cromwell. The Tudor brasses surrounding it include the first William Dunch (1597). There is a good collection of earlier brasses in the chancel: Geoffrey Kidwelly (1483) has an altar-style monument. His wife (1472) is on the floor with other members of this Lancastrian family from Wales who entered into the service of King Henry VI.
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Day's Lock is a lock on the River Thames near Dorchester-on-Thames, Oxfordshire, England on the Dorchester side of the river. The pound lock was built in 1789 by the Thames Navigation Commissioner. The lock is across the river from the small village of Little Wittenham and is overlooked from the south by the hills of Wittenham Clumps, with a particularly good view from Round Hill. The weir runs straight across the river from the other side of the lock island. Day's Lock is the main gauging station for the measurement of the water flow in the River Thames.
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Neighbouring Wharf Road has a slipway, boathouse and 12 listed buildings (at Grade II),
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Drayton St. Leonard?
There are over 430 hiking routes available around Drayton St. Leonard. These range from easy strolls along the river to more challenging loops that ascend to viewpoints like the Wittenham Clumps.
What are the best options for easy or beginner-friendly hikes?
Many paths along the River Thame and the Thames Path offer gentle terrain suitable for beginners. For example, the Dorchester Abbey – Dorchester-on-Thames loop is an easy 2.8-mile (4.5 km) walk with minimal elevation, perfect for a relaxed outing.
Are there any circular walks in the area?
Yes, Drayton St. Leonard offers several excellent circular walks. A popular choice is the Shillingford Bridge – Little Wittenham Wood loop from Dorchester-on-Thames, which is 7.8 miles (12.6 km) long and takes you through scenic woodlands and along the river.
What kind of natural landmarks or attractions can I see while hiking?
Hikers can explore several notable natural features. The iconic Wittenham Clumps offer breathtaking views, and trails often pass through areas like Little Wittenham Wood and along the River Thame, which connects to the historic Thames Path. You might also encounter Day's Lock, a picturesque spot on the Thames.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the trails around Drayton St. Leonard?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 780 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the diverse natural scenery, including peaceful river meadows and the distinctive Wittenham Clumps, as well as the well-maintained paths suitable for various abilities.
Are there family-friendly hiking options?
Absolutely. Many of the trails, particularly those along the Thames Path, are relatively flat and well-suited for families. The varied terrain and wildlife in areas like Berinsfield Country Park can also make for an engaging experience for children.
Can I bring my dog on the hikes?
While specific trail regulations can vary, many public footpaths and sections of the Thames Path are dog-friendly. It's always recommended to keep dogs on a lead, especially near livestock or in nature reserves, and to clean up after them.
Where can I find parking for the hiking trails?
While specific parking details for Drayton St. Leonard walks are not provided, many popular trailheads, especially those originating from nearby Dorchester-on-Thames, typically offer parking facilities. It's advisable to check local signage or community information for the most convenient spots.
Is public transport available to access the hiking routes?
Drayton St. Leonard is a village in Oxfordshire, and while local bus services may connect to nearby towns, direct public transport access to specific trailheads might be limited. Planning your route in advance and checking local bus schedules for connections to Dorchester-on-Thames or other starting points is recommended.
Are there any long-distance hiking opportunities near Drayton St. Leonard?
Yes, the area provides direct access to sections of the Thames Path, a long-distance walking route that follows England's best-known river for over 185 miles. This allows for extended treks along the river, offering gentle terrain and scenic views.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in this region?
The region offers enjoyable hiking year-round. Spring and summer are ideal for experiencing the peaceful water meadows rich in wildlife. Autumn brings beautiful foliage, and even winter walks can be pleasant, especially along the relatively flat riverside paths.
Are there any routes that offer scenic viewpoints?
Definitely. Hikes that include the Wittenham Clumps, such as the Day's Lock – Wittenham Clumps loop, are renowned for their breathtaking views over the River Thames and the surrounding Oxfordshire countryside.
Most popular attractions around Drayton St. Leonard
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