The best walks and hikes around Black Bourton
4.4
(683)
4,667
hikers
249
hikes
Hikes around Black Bourton explore the Oxfordshire countryside on the edge of the Cotswolds. The landscape is characterized by gently rolling farmland, quiet footpaths, and walks along rivers like the Thames and its tributaries. The routes are generally flat, making the area suitable for a range of walking abilities.
Best hiking trails around Black Bourton
- The most popular hiking route is Radcot Lock – The Swan Pub loop from Clanfield, a 5.9 mile (9.5 km) trail that takes about…
Last updated: April 23, 2026
4.8
(4)
38
hikers
9.46km
02:23
10m
10m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(4)
26
hikers
18.7km
04:52
120m
120m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(1)
25
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
7
hikers
7.09km
01:47
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.5
(2)
9
hikers
6.76km
01:43
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
This is a pretty little ford in Shilton. You can cycle through the ford if the water is safe, or use the nearby bridge if the water levels are too high.
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Looks like the new home has fenced off the route, head directly south and you can round the property, and find your way back on track with options east and west
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As a memorial to the many dead, such memorials - usually called "war memorials" in English - are still very important today. "Now, Lord, you let your servant depart in peace, as you have said..." says the so-called "Hymn of Simeon" (Luke's Gospel, Chapter 2, Verse 29). However, the people commemorated here did not depart in peace, but became victims of war and tyranny. This is why the term "dead soldiers' memorial" is now sometimes used in German instead of the previously most common "war memorial". However, such a war memorial, which one encounters so often on the road, regardless of nationality, language and name, is always a testimony - still significant and current today - to the horror of war and tyranny. They all have two essential functions, and this for each generation anew: -1- Commemorate and remember the victims -2- Remind people to keep the peace
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There is parking for about six or seven cars. The pub itself is lovely. Ole worlde with exposed wooden beams and two big open fires. The food is very good and there is a large beer garden with it's own bar and resident bantams roaming around 😁 I was there on a Sunday evening and it was very busy with diners. If you are going there to eat I would recommend booking in advance. Well worth a visit.
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There is parking for about six or seven cars. The pub itself is lovely. Ole worlde with exposed wooden beams and two big open fires. The food is very good and there is a large beer garden with it's own bar and resident bantams roaming around 😁 I was there on a Sunday evening and it was very busy with diners. If you are going there to eat I would recommend booking in advance. Well worth a visit.
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There is some parking available at The Swan Inn pub, make sure to pop in for a refreshing drink or some delicious food.
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St Mary Church is a beautiful 12th-century church situated in the village of Swinbrook in Gloucestershire. It is a typical Cotswold church in its age and peaceful charm, and is a mixture of Romanesque and early Gothic architecture.
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A beautiful stretch of walking through meadows and grasslands that runs next to the scenic River Windrush.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there many circular walks starting near Black Bourton?
Yes, the area is well-suited for circular hikes. The landscape of rolling farmland and interconnected footpaths makes it easy to plan loop walks that bring you back to your starting point. You can find many options that explore the countryside around local villages without needing to retrace your steps.
Can I take my dog on hikes around Black Bourton?
Most trails in the Oxfordshire countryside are great for walking with a dog, but it's best to keep them on a lead, especially when crossing farmland with livestock. Many local pubs in the surrounding villages are also dog-friendly, allowing you to stop for refreshments with your four-legged companion.
Are there any family-friendly or easy walks in the area?
Definitely. The terrain around Black Bourton is generally flat, making it ideal for families and casual walkers. For a short and straightforward outing, consider the Hiking loop from Bampton. It's an easy walk of under 4 km that explores the area around the historic village.
Where can I find walks along a river?
The region is known for its beautiful riverside paths. Many trails follow the River Windrush and the River Thames. For a longer walk that takes in the scenery of the Windrush valley and the classic Cotswold village of Burford, the Asthall Bridge – Burford Village loop from Carterton is a great choice.
What are the trails like around Black Bourton?
The hiking experience is defined by quiet footpaths through open farmland, gentle riverside strolls, and routes connecting charming, historic villages. The paths are generally well-maintained and the landscape is mostly flat, offering relaxing walks with expansive views of the Oxfordshire countryside.
Where can I find a shorter walk, maybe under two hours?
There are plenty of shorter options available. A good example is the Hiking loop from Alvescot, which is just under 7 km and typically takes around 1 hour and 45 minutes. It's an easy route that showcases the local scenery without requiring a full day's commitment.
Are there any good pubs to stop at on a walk?
Yes, many routes are planned around the excellent village pubs in the area. A popular option is to follow a trail that includes a stop at The Swan Pub in Radcot, which is situated right by the river. The The Swan Pub – Radcot Lock loop from Clanfield is a pleasant 7.4 km walk that is perfect for combining a hike with a pub visit.
Where can I park to start a walk?
Most walkers find parking in the villages that serve as trailheads, such as Clanfield, Bampton, or Carterton. Look for on-street parking, but please be considerate of local residents. Some walks also start near pubs which may offer parking for patrons.
What do other hikers think of the routes around Black Bourton?
The area is highly regarded by the komoot community. Hikers often praise the peaceful atmosphere, the classic English countryside scenery, and the well-marked paths along the rivers. The routes have earned a high average rating from hundreds of reviews.
Are there any longer, more challenging hikes available?
While the area is known for its gentle terrain, you can find longer moderate hikes. The Radcot Lock – The Swan Pub loop from Clanfield is a good example, covering about 9.5 km along the Thames Path and through fields, offering a more substantial walk that takes over two hours.
How many hiking trails are there to choose from?
There is a wide variety of options, with over 250 hiking routes to explore around Black Bourton. These range from short, easy strolls to longer, moderate treks, ensuring there's a trail for every fitness level and interest.
Are there any nature reserves I can visit on a walk?
Yes, you can incorporate a visit to a nature reserve into your day. For example, Greystones Farm Nature Reserve near Bourton-on-the-Water is a popular spot for walking and seeing local wildlife. It also features a cafe, making it a great destination for a day out.
Most popular attractions around Black Bourton
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