4.6
(1350)
9,068
hikers
682
hikes
Hiking around Purley On Thames offers a variety of routes characterized by the River Thames, extensive woodlands, and gentle rolling terrain. The area features paths along the riverbanks and through natural spaces like Sulham Woods. Elevation changes are generally modest, providing accessible options for different hiking abilities. This region is situated near Reading, offering a blend of riverside scenery and forested trails.
Last updated: May 25, 2026
4.7
(7)
20
hikers
6.63km
01:47
80m
80m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(8)
22
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.4
(11)
71
hikers
8.06km
02:03
20m
20m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(9)
58
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(17)
63
hikers
19.3km
04:58
90m
90m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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All cyclists are able to pass the toll bridge for free
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This is a scenic riverside area located in the village of Pangbourne that features open green space popular for picnics. The meadow is a great place to stop and rest whilst travelling the Thames Path National Trail.
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Have you always wanted to live by the water? Here is the perfect house with a boathouse built right into it. All you need is a speedboat to go straight to London.
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Saint NICHOLAS, Bishop of Myra, to whom this church is dedicated, is one of the most popular saints of all - along with Saint Martin, Bishop of Tours in France. Almost every child knows his commemoration day in the calendar of saints, December 6th. On the eve of this day, children used to put their shoes or boots - which had of course been carefully polished - in front of the door so that Saint Nicholas could fill them with gifts during the night. In more agricultural areas, it was also customary for children to put a small gift of food out for the donkey, Saint Nicholas's mount (according to another tradition, it was a white horse).
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The River Pang is a tributary of the River Thames. It runs from here to Pangbourne where it joins the much bigger river. This chalk stream is said to be the inspiration for Kenneth Grahame writing 'The Wind in the Willows'.
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All along the south side of the Thames between Purley and Pangbourne there are gorgeous views across the water. There are often swans, geese and ducks swimming by too.
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It is said that Wilder's Folly was built as wild romantic gesture by the Reverend Henry Wilder. He lived at Sulham House, while Jane Thoyts, who he was trying to woo, lived nearby at Sulhamstead House. The folly was positioned at the exact spot where you could see both houses. Take a look to the north as you can still see Sulham House today.
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Sulham Woods is a great place for a walk amongst the trees. It stretches on both sides of the road Sulham Hill. In the spring it is resplendent with bluebells and there are frequent views across the valley through the trees.
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There are over 690 hiking routes available around Purley On Thames, offering a wide variety of options for different skill levels and preferences. You'll find paths along the River Thames, through woodlands, and across gentle hills.
Yes, Purley On Thames offers many easy routes. For a gentle walk, consider the Sulham Woods & Wilder's Folly loop from Sulham, which is 4.1 miles (6.6 km) and takes you through pleasant woodlands.
Many routes in the area are circular. A popular option is the Sulham Woods, Pangbourne & the River Thames loop from Tilehurst, which combines woodland paths with riverside views over 7.9 miles (12.7 km).
Hiking trails in the region often feature views of the River Thames and pass by historical points of interest. You might encounter structures like the Whitchurch Bridge over the River Thames or the Sonning Bridge. The area also has several lakes, such as Hosehill Lake and Maiden Erlegh Lake, which can be explored.
Yes, the generally modest elevation changes and varied terrain make many routes suitable for families. Look for shorter, easy-graded trails that explore the woodlands or follow the riverbanks for a pleasant outing with children.
The hiking routes in Purley On Thames are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 1,200 reviews. Hikers often praise the blend of riverside scenery and peaceful forested trails, as well as the accessibility of many paths.
Absolutely. The River Thames is a defining feature of the area. A great option for riverside views is the Mapledurham Lock – View of the River Thames loop from Pangbourne, which offers scenic stretches along the water.
Hikes in Purley On Thames vary in length and duration. You can find shorter walks, like the 4.1-mile (6.6 km) Sulham Woods & Wilder's Folly loop which takes about 2 hours, or longer excursions such as the 12.0-mile (19.3 km) Mapledurham Lock – View of the River Thames loop from Tilehurst, which can take over 5 hours.
Many of the trails through woodlands and along the River Thames are suitable for dogs, provided they are kept under control. Always check local signage for specific restrictions, especially in nature reserves or near livestock.
Purley On Thames is situated near Reading, which is well-connected by public transport. Many trailheads are accessible via local bus services from Reading, or you can start directly from villages with train stations along the Thames, such as Tilehurst or Pangbourne.
The region around Purley On Thames, with its charming villages and riverside locations, offers several routes that pass by traditional pubs. While specific routes aren't listed here, many local trails are designed to connect with village amenities, making a pub lunch a common and enjoyable part of the hiking experience.
The trails around Purley On Thames are enjoyable year-round. Spring brings blooming wildflowers to the woodlands, summer offers pleasant riverside strolls, autumn showcases beautiful foliage, and even winter provides crisp, quiet walks, especially along the Thames Path.


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