The Path of the Brave, Stowe
The Path of the Brave, Stowe
4.9
(35)
398
hikers
The Path of the Brave, Stowe
01:48
6.93km
50m
Hiking
Embark on an easy hike along The Path of the Brave, Stowe, a gentle route that winds through the historic Stowe Gardens. This trail spans 4.3 miles (6.9 km) with a minimal elevation gain of 151 feet (46 metres), making it accessible for most. You can expect to complete this pleasant journey in approximately 1 hour and 48 minutes, enjoying the serene landscape and architectural features as you go. Keep an eye out for the elegant Palladian Bridge and the grand Temple of Concord and Victory, which offer picturesque views.
Before you visit, remember that Stowe Gardens is a National Trust property, so admission fees may apply. It is always a good idea to check their official website for the most current information regarding opening times, ticket prices, and any specific access requirements. Parking is generally available on-site, which makes planning your trip straightforward. Ensure you have comfortable footwear for this easy-going path.
This route offers a unique opportunity to explore a rich tapestry of both natural and architectural beauty within the historic estate. As you hike, you will gain glimpses into the estate's past, encountering structures like the Gothic Temple and the impressive South Facade of Stowe House. The Path of the Brave provides a tranquil escape, allowing you to connect with centuries of history and carefully curated landscapes.
Last updated: April 23, 2026
Tips
Temporary access restrictions
Includes segments with temporary access restrictions. Check ahead to confirm restricted segments are open to the public.
After 33 m for 56 m
After 6.85 km for 56 m
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
1.17 km
Rear of the Temple of Friendship
Highlight • Monument
Inscribed on the exterior of the building is AMICITIAE S (sacred to friendship), and inside were placed busts in white marble of Lord Cobham and nine of his friends: Earl Bathurst, the Earl of Chatham, the Earl of Chesterfield, Earl Gower, the Earl of Marchmont, Earl Temple, the Earl of Westmoreland, Lord Lyttleton, and Frederick, Prince of Wales. (Three of these men were Cobham's nephews: his heir Richard Grenville, later Earl Temple; William Pitt, later Earl of Chatham; and Sir George Lyttelton.) On the ceiling was a painting of Britannia surrounded by other figures, one of which held a label with the words "The Reign of King Edward III," another of which held a scroll with the words "The Reign of Queen Elizabeth," and a third holding a scroll with the incomplete title "The Reign of ------" which was covered by Britannia's mantle and which she seemed unwilling to look at.
Views from the portico include the Temple of Ancient Virtue in the Elysian fields to the northwest, the Queen's Temple at the far end of Hawkwell Field, and Lord Cobham's Monument, the Gothic Temple, and the Palladian Bridge along the east side. From the windows in the rear of the central room the Corinthian Arch can be seen, and at a time before the view was obscured by planting, the Temple of Venus could be seen on Kent's Bastion to the west. A fire in the early nineteenth century rendered the building an empty shell, and parts of it in danger of falling were demolished in 1884. Today the Temple has the feeling of a romantic ruin.
faculty.bsc.edu/jtatter/friends.html
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1.93 km
Palladian Bridge at Stowe
Highlight • Bridge
Tip by
2.23 km
Gothic Temple, Stowe Landscape Gardens
Highlight • Monument
Tip by
2.61 km
Lord Cobham's Monument
Highlight • Monument
In fact, it was designed not only as a memorial to Lord Cobham, commissioned by his wife, but as a viewing tower from which one could see the entire garden (and, as Bevington remarks, parts of five counties). An eyecatcher in its own right, standing 115 feet tall, it can be seen not only from the Temple of Concord and Victory in the Grecian Valley but also from the Temple of Friendship at the southern end of Hawkwell Field. The Survey remarks that the monument "is similar to, and may have been inspired by, the column erected slightly earlier by the Duchess of Marlborough to her husband at Blenheim."
During extensive renovation in 2000-2001, the statue of Lord Cobham was returned to its original place atop the belvedere (it had been destroyed in 1957 when lightning struck it), and the entire structure was limewashed to give it an even pale yellow color and to protect the stone from the elements. The base of the Monument is decorated with stone lions on the four buttresses and with plaques displaying quotations from two of Alexander Pope's Moral Epistles -- one dedicated to Lord Cobham on the characters of men and the other dedicated to the Earl of Burlington on the proper use of riches. The two inscriptions read as follows:
And you, brave Cobham, to the latest breath,
Shall feel your ruling passion strong in death;
Such in those moments, as in all the past,
Oh, Save my Country, Heaven! shall be your last.
Consult the genius of the place in all;
That bids the waters rise, or gently fall;
That helps th' ambitious hill the heav'ns to scale,
Or scoops in circling theatres the vale;
Calls in the country, catches op'ning glades,
Unites the woods, and varies shades from shades;
Nature shall join you; Time shall make it grow
A work to wonder at,---perhaps a Stowe.
faculty.bsc.edu/jtatter/cobham.html
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3.07 km
Fane of Pastoral Poetry
Highlight • Monument
Tip by
3.56 km
Temple of Concord and Victory
Highlight • Monument
Tip by
3.99 km
Stowe House South Facade and Medici Lions
Highlight • Historical Site
In 1790 a balustrade was added parallel to the façade that ran from the bottom of the steps the full length of the house and then returned at both ends, there are a series of 30 pedestals along the balustrade, that until their sale in 1921 were topped by bronze urns. These were replaced by replicas in 2013. This was probably added to keep visitors from the lower windows of the house, and formal flower beds were laid out in the area.
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stowe_House#House
Tip by
4.54 km
Sleeping Wood Garden
Highlight • Natural
Tip by
5.94 km
Stowe Pavilions
Highlight • Monument
faculty.bsc.edu/jtatter/pavilion.html
Tip by
6.93 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
4.19 km
2.08 km
515 m
137 m
Surfaces
3.04 km
1.50 km
1.35 km
786 m
250 m
< 100 m
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Elevation
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Weather
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Wednesday 6 May
16°C
6°C
21 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 10.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the terrain like on The Path of the Brave?
The Path of the Brave is an easy hike through the beautiful Stowe Landscape Gardens. The terrain is generally well-maintained and mostly level, making it accessible for a leisurely stroll.
What can I see along the route?
This route takes you past many impressive historical features and natural beauty spots within Stowe Gardens. You'll encounter the Rear of the Temple of Friendship, the iconic Palladian Bridge at Stowe, the grand Gothic Temple, and Lord Cobham's Monument. Other highlights include the Fane of Pastoral Poetry, the Temple of Concord and Victory, and the impressive Stowe House South Facade and Medici Lions.
Does the trail intersect other well-known paths?
Yes, the route for The Path of the Brave overlaps with several other named paths within Stowe Gardens. You'll find yourself on sections of the Military Route, The Royal Route (Extended Route), Home Front Route, and Stowe's 'Stowedrops' Walk, among others.
What is the best time of year to visit Stowe Gardens for this hike?
Stowe Gardens is beautiful year-round, but spring and summer offer lush greenery and blooming flowers, while autumn provides stunning foliage. Winter can be magical with frost and snow, though some facilities might have reduced hours. Check the garden's official website for seasonal opening times and specific events.
Are dogs allowed on The Path of the Brave?
Stowe Gardens generally welcomes dogs on leads in most areas. However, it's always best to check the latest visitor information on the official Stowe Gardens website before your visit, as specific rules or restricted areas may apply.
Do I need a permit or pay an entrance fee to access Stowe Gardens?
Yes, Stowe Landscape Gardens is a National Trust property, and an entrance fee is required for non-members. National Trust members typically enjoy free entry. It's advisable to check the National Trust's official website for current admission prices, opening hours, and any booking requirements before your visit.
Where does The Path of the Brave start, and is there parking available?
The Path of the Brave is an internal route within Stowe Landscape Gardens. Access begins once you enter the gardens. There is ample parking available at the main visitor entrance to Stowe Gardens. Follow signage for visitor parking upon arrival.
Is this trail suitable for families with children?
Absolutely. Given its easy difficulty, well-maintained paths, and numerous points of interest, The Path of the Brave is very suitable for families with children. The varied scenery and historical monuments offer plenty to keep younger hikers engaged.
Are there facilities like restrooms or cafes along the route?
As the trail is located within Stowe Landscape Gardens, you'll find visitor facilities such as restrooms, cafes, and shops near the main entrance and at various points within the wider garden estate. It's recommended to check the garden map upon arrival for specific locations.
What should I bring for this hike?
For this easy hike, comfortable walking shoes are essential. Depending on the weather, bring appropriate clothing, including rain gear if necessary. A water bottle, snacks, and a camera to capture the beautiful scenery and monuments are also recommended. Don't forget your National Trust membership card if you have one!
How long does it take to hike The Path of the Brave?
The Path of the Brave is approximately 6.9 kilometers (4.3 miles) long and typically takes around 1 hour and 48 minutes to complete at a moderate pace. This duration allows for enjoying the scenery and highlights along the way.