If you’re looking for the best walks in Cheltenham, you’ve come to the right place.
From the breathtaking views of Cleeve Hill High Two Woods to the picturesque Pittville Park, this charming Cotswold town has something to offer everyone.
Whether you’re planning a hike in the hills or simply looking for a nice walk, there’s no shortage of scenic spots to explore.
Here’s a look at 15 of the best walks in Cheltenham and what makes them special.
Pittville Park
Pittville Park is a must-see for anyone looking for a peaceful escape and a chance to connect with nature. Located in the heart of Cheltenham, it is one of the largest parks in the area, spanning over 100 acres of land.
The park has two picturesque lakes, a boating lake, a cafe, a playground, a mini golf course, and plenty of walking trails. The trails range from easy to difficult, so you can find something suitable for your fitness level.
The views of the lake are spectacular, and you can even spot some wildlife in the park. The atmosphere is so tranquil and calm, and a great way to relax and take in the beauty of nature.
Whether you want to have a leisurely stroll or a challenging hike, Pittville Park is an ideal destination for a day out.
The Centaur
The Centaur offers a picturesque stroll through lush greenery and tranquil waterways, perfect for an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
This walk passes through gardens and woodlands, with plenty of opportunities for wildlife spotting.
The circular route takes in the lake, the meadows, and the terrace, and the views of the surrounding countryside are simply stunning.
The Centaur is an ideal spot for leisurely strolls, and the paths are suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs, so it’s a great choice for families.
There’s also a cafe in the park where you can take a break, and the park is well-maintained and regularly patrolled by security staff.
All in all, it’s a great option for an enjoyable afternoon walk, whatever the weather.
Belas Knap
Located near Cheltenham, Belas Knap offers a peaceful and secluded setting for a relaxing stroll. This site is managed by the National Trust and contains many ancient monuments, including Bronze Age barrows, Iron Age earthworks, and a Romano-British temple. It also boasts a variety of flora and fauna for visitors to enjoy.
The area provides a perfect opportunity to take a leisurely walk and admire the stunning views of the Cotswolds. The footpaths are well-marked, and there are plenty of benches, picnic spots, and areas to explore and discover. The terrain is mostly level and suitable for all ages and abilities.
There is also an audio tour available which explains the history of Belas Knap and gives more insight into the area. There are also plenty of activities available to do in the surrounding areas, such as visiting nearby villages, exploring the Cotswold Water Park, and taking in the views over the Severn Valley.
Belas Knap is definitely a great place to enjoy a peaceful walk and take in the beautiful scenery.
Robinswood Hill
Experience a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of life as you explore Robinswood Hill, a stunning area of woodland and meadows.
The hill is located east of Cheltenham and offers great views of the Severn Valley, the Malvern Hills, and the Black Mountains.
The area is a 241-hectare nature reserve and is an ideal spot for a relaxing stroll or an invigorating hike.
You can enjoy the lush green hillsides, the abundant wildflowers, the streams, and the ancient oak woodlands.
The area is also home to an abundance of wildlife, including badgers, foxes, and owls.
Robinswood Hill is a perfect place to escape the noise of the city and take in some spectacular views.
Spend a peaceful morning or afternoon walking through the beautiful meadows and woodlands, and take some time to relax and enjoy the serenity of this stunning area.
Cleeve Hill High Two Woods
Take a break from the everyday to explore the tranquil beauty of Cleeve Hill High Two Woods, just east of Cheltenham.
This is a great spot for a relaxing, but invigorating, ramble and is a great way to unwind and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
The woodlands sit atop Cleeve Hill, which is the highest point in the Cotswolds, giving you a breathtaking view of the countryside.
You can make your way through the woodlands, crossing over two streams and taking in the sights and sounds of nature all around you.
The woods are home to many species of birds, and you may even be lucky enough to spot a red kite in flight.
There are also plenty of paths to explore, with some leading you to a hidden valley, and others taking you to the top of the hill.
When you reach the summit, take a moment to appreciate the stunning views of the Cotswolds and the surrounding countryside.
After your walk, take some time to relax and enjoy a picnic in the woods, or find a local pub to have a well-deserved pint.
Whatever you choose, Cleeve Hill High Two Woods is a great place to spend a day and escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
Cleeve Common Big Wood
Let yourself wander the tranquil beauty of Cleeve Common Big Wood, just east of Cheltenham, and soak in the sights and sounds of nature.
This expansive woodland is a perfect spot for a peaceful stroll, with plenty of trails winding through the trees and plenty of open space to explore.
As you walk, you’re sure to be met with a variety of different birdsong and the rustling of the wind through the leaves.
The wood is full of wildlife too, including hares, bats, and badgers, so keep your eyes peeled and you might be lucky enough to spot something.
The woodland also has plenty of interesting historical artifacts to explore, including Iron Age ramparts, Bronze Age burial mounds, and old cottages.
There’s a great variety of trees here too, including oak, ash, beech, lime, and hawthorn.
All this makes Cleeve Common Big Wood a great place to spend a few hours, and it’s definitely worth a visit if you’re looking for a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Cleeve Hill
Soak up the incredible views of Cleeve Hill, just a stone’s throw from Cheltenham, while taking a leisurely hike through the area’s rolling hills and valleys.
This area of the Cotswolds provides some of the most breathtaking views of the countryside. The hill itself is the highest point in the region, reaching a height of 1,083 feet. From the top, you can see all the way to the Malvern Hills and the Welsh Mountains, as well as the Severn Valley. It’s no wonder Cleeve Hill is such a popular spot for walkers and hikers!
The terrain of Cleeve Hill is mostly grassy, with some patches of woodland. The trails here are easy to follow, and you can take your time to explore the area’s flora and fauna.
There are numerous ancient burial mounds, the remains of an Iron Age fort, and even the ruins of an old Roman temple. You’ll also find a few ruined castles, and a Norman motte-and-bailey castle. So don’t forget your camera to capture some of the area’s breathtaking views!
Crickley Hill
After Cleeve Hill, my next favorite walking destination is Crickley Hill, a great spot for some beautiful views and a challenging hike. Located in the heart of the Cotswolds, this is a great spot for nature lovers and those looking for a bit of adventure.
The walk itself starts off with a moderate incline and you’ll soon find yourself at the top of the hill where you can take in the panoramic views of the countryside. It’s a great spot for bird watching too; look out for buzzards, ravens, and kites soaring through the sky.
The path winds around the hill, taking you through ancient woodlands and across open fields. The walk also passes by an Iron Age hill fort, which is a great place to stop and explore.
The entire walk is around 6 miles in length and can take up to 4 hours, depending on how often you stop to take in the views.
Midsummer Hill
Midsummer Hill is a stunning destination for nature-lovers, boasting stunning views of the surrounding countryside and plenty of spots to explore. It is located in the Cotswolds, just north of Cheltenham, and can be easily reached by car.
The hill is a great spot for a leisurely walk, with plenty of trails leading to the summit. From the top, hikers can enjoy views of the Severn Valley, Malvern Hills, and even the Black Mountains in Wales.
The hill is also a great destination for wildlife-spotting, with many species of birds, mammals, and reptiles to be seen. There are also plenty of wildflowers to admire, as well as ancient trees and ruins from old settlements.
On a clear day, it’s possible to see all the way to the Welsh coast.
All in all, Midsummer Hill is an excellent location for a peaceful, enjoyable walk.
Pitville Park to Charlton Kings
For those looking for a more leisurely stroll, Pitville Park to Charlton Kings is a great option. It offers a scenic walk through beautiful countryside. This walk stretches for around three miles and takes in some of the best of the local countryside. You’ll be able to take in the sights of the River Chelt and its meadows, and the rolling hills of the Cotswolds.
As you make your way around the route, you’ll also pass through the picturesque villages of Prestbury and Charlton Kings. With plenty of stops along the way, you’ll have plenty of chances to take in the beauty of the local area.
The walk also offers plenty of wildlife viewing opportunities. You can see a wide range of species, from the common buzzard to the rarer red kite. You may also be lucky enough to spot a deer or two.
If you’re looking for a more leisurely stroll, then the Pitville Park to Charlton Kings route is definitely one to consider. With its stunning views, wildlife, and plenty of stops to take in the scenery, this route is a great way to explore the beauty of Cheltenham.
Leckhampton Hill
Having explored the beauty of Pitville Park to Charlton Kings, my next stop is Leckhampton Hill. This is one of the most spectacular views of Cheltenham, and it’s a great spot for an afternoon walk.
There is a small car park located at the foot of the hill, and there is a path that winds up to the summit. The path is well maintained and lined with trees, making it a pleasant journey to the top.
Once you reach the top, you get a breathtaking panoramic view of the town and the surrounding countryside. It’s a great spot for a picnic and makes for a great place to take a few photos.
The hill is also an excellent spot for birdwatching, with plenty of different species to be seen.
Woodmancote Circular Walk
If you’re looking for a peaceful and picturesque stroll, then the Woodmancote Circular Walk is a must-do. This delightful walk takes you through the stunning Cotswolds countryside, offering a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
The walk starts at the Church of St. Mary in Woodmancote, and gradually climbs up through the woodland, before descending back to the valley. You’ll be treated to some breathtaking views of the countryside, with the rolling hills and meadows of the Cotswolds providing an amazing backdrop to the woodland.
The path is well-trodden and easy to follow, and you’ll be accompanied by an array of wildlife, including red kites, buzzards, and other birds of prey. There’s also plenty of wildflowers in the summer months, making this walk even more beautiful.
The entire route is around 4.5 miles long, so it’s a great choice for a leisurely morning or afternoon stroll. If you’re looking for a peaceful and relaxing walk, then the Woodmancote Circular Walk is definitely worth exploring.
Bishops Cleeve Loop
Take a journey through the picturesque Gloucestershire countryside on the Bishops Cleeve Loop walk. This easy 4-mile circular walk takes in some of the most beautiful and serene sights in the area, with plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife along the way.
The route takes you through the rolling hills of the Cotswold Hills, with views of the Malverns in the distance. Along the route, you’ll pass through a variety of different landscapes, from woodlands to pastures and meadows.
The walk starts at the Bishops Cleeve railway station, which is a great starting point as it’s easy to find and has plenty of parking.
As you make your way around the route, you’ll find plenty of interesting features to explore. Look out for the Iron Age fort, the ancient woods, and the many footpaths that take you through some of the most stunning scenery in the area. You’ll also have the opportunity to spot a variety of wildlife, including deer, hares, and birds.
The route is well signposted and easy to follow, so you won’t get lost. Once you finish the loop, you can head back to the station and enjoy the well-deserved rest.
Leckhampton Hill and Coopers Hill
Explore the dramatic landscapes of Leckhampton Hill and Coopers Hill, where stunning views and challenging trails await!
This area of the Cotswolds offers a unique and rewarding experience for any walker or hiker. With its rolling hills, heathland, and wide-open spaces, you’ll be reminded of the natural beauty of the British countryside.
Leckhampton Hill is the highest point in Cheltenham, with great views across the Severn Vale and the Malvern Hills in the distance. The trails wind around the hill and through the heathland, offering a range of difficulty to suit all levels.
Coopers Hill is a great spot for a picnic and is known for its steep grassy slopes, making it a great destination for sledging in the winter. There are also plenty of well-marked paths to explore and a wealth of wildlife to observe.
With its dramatic scenery and abundance of nature, Leckhampton Hill and Coopers Hill make for an ideal outing in the Cotswolds.
Prestbury Circular Walk
Discover the hidden gems of the Prestbury Circular Walk – an exciting and varied adventure for all ages!
This circular walk, located in the heart of the Gloucestershire countryside, provides an opportunity to explore the beautiful Cotswolds.
From the start, you’ll be able to admire the stunning views of the rolling hills and valleys.
The walk takes you through a variety of landscapes, from meadows full of wildflowers to wooded hillsides.
Along the way, you’ll be able to spot a variety of wildlife, including butterflies, birds, and other creatures.
You’ll also pass through some of the charming villages of Prestbury, including Churchdown, Bishop’s Cleeve, and Prestbury itself.
The walk is well-marked, making it easy to follow, and there are plenty of resting points along the way, so you can take your time and enjoy the scenery.
At the end of the journey, you’ll be rewarded with a stunning view of the Malvern Hills.
Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or a challenging trek, the Prestbury Circular Walk is sure to provide an unforgettable adventure.
Conclusion
After exploring the best walks in Cheltenham, I can confidently say that it’s a great place for a stroll.
From Pittville Park to Belas Knap, there’s something for everyone.
I particularly enjoyed the Woodmancote Circular Walk, with its stunning views and peaceful atmosphere.
Leckhampton Hill and Coopers Hill were also great for getting some exercise and taking in the scenery.
No matter where you go, Cheltenham has plenty of options for a nice walk.
So, grab your walking boots and get out there to explore this beautiful town!