Situated in the heart of the Cotswolds, Northleach is an ideal base for exploring rolling countryside, historic villages and peaceful valleys on foot. With a network of public footpaths and access to long-distance trails, the area offers a variety of walks for all abilities.
From short circular strolls to longer countryside routes, Northleach provides the perfect starting point to experience the natural beauty and heritage of the Cotswolds.
Northleach, Hampnett & the Saltway (Miles Without Stiles)
Distance: 4.5 miles (7.2 km)
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Route & map
A circular walk exploring historic routes including the Salt Way and Fosse Way. This accessible route is stile-free, making it suitable for a wide range of walkers, with gentle countryside and scenic village views.
Northleach Circular Countryside Walk
Distance: approx. 5–7 miles (8–11 km)
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Route & map
A gentle circular walk exploring the surrounding countryside, with a mix of open fields and quiet tracks.
Northleach Valley & Village Walk
Distance: approx. 6–8 miles (10–13 km)
Difficulty: Moderate
Route & map
A scenic route combining valley views with visits to nearby villages, offering a classic Cotswold walking experience.
Northleach to Farmington Circular
Distance: 5 miles (8 km)
Difficulty: Moderate
Route & map
A scenic circular walk linking Northleach with the nearby village of Farmington, passing historic countryside and traditional farmland.
Escaping the Prison Across the Fields
Distance: 5 miles (8 km)
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Route & map
A quieter route heading out across fields towards Hampnett before returning via lesser-used countryside paths.
Northleach to Cirencester Walk
Distance: 11.4 miles (18.3 km)
Difficulty: Moderate
Route & map
A longer route heading south from Northleach towards Cirencester, passing through open farmland and quiet rural landscapes with gentle climbs along the way.
Northleach to Bibury Loop
Distance: 13.8 miles (22 km)
Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
Route & map
A scenic circular walk linking Northleach with Bibury, featuring steady climbs, valley views and some of the most picturesque countryside in the Cotswolds.
Northleach, Chedworth & Hampnett Loop
Distance: 9.8 miles (15.8 km)
Difficulty: Moderate
Route & map
A circular route exploring surrounding villages including Chedworth and Hampnett, combining countryside tracks with quiet lanes and varied terrain.
Big Views & Small Villages Circuit
Distance: 9.4 miles (15.1 km)
Difficulty: Moderate
Route & map
A rewarding circular walk passing through villages such as Hampnett, Turkdean and Farmington, offering wide-ranging views across the Cotswolds landscape and a mix of quiet roads and farm tracks.
Northleach to Bourton-on-the-Water
Distance: approx. 8 miles (13.5 km)
Difficulty: Moderate
Route & map
A peaceful trail across open countryside to Bourton-on-the-Water.
Walking in the Northleach Area
Walking from Northleach offers:
Whether you’re looking for a short, accessible walk or a longer countryside hike, Northleach is an excellent base for exploring the Cotswolds on foot.
Find out more about walking in the Cotswolds, walking routes, and walking tours.
