Winchcombe Walks
Winchcombe is a great base for walking in the Cotswolds, set on the edge of the Cotswold escarpment and surrounded by rolling countryside, historic sites and waymarked trails. The town’s Walkers are Welcome status makes it an ideal base for outdoor enthusiasts, with walking and cycling routes to suit all ages and abilities right on the doorstep.
From gentle accessible routes to more challenging hill walks, there are options for all abilities. Whether you’re looking for a short circular walk or a longer route along the Cotswold Way, Winchcombe offers a variety of landscapes to explore, including valleys, woodland and open hilltop views. The town also hosts an annual walking festival each May, celebrating its rich network of routes and welcoming walking community.
Winchcombe’s Ultimate Walk on Wheels (Circular)
Distance: Approx. 1.5 miles (2.4 km)
Difficulty: Easy (accessible)
Route & map
This accessible circular route has been designed for all-terrain wheelchairs, pushchairs and those looking for an easy, step-free walk. Following well-surfaced paths around Winchcombe, it offers a gentle way to enjoy the surrounding countryside and local scenery.
Winchcombe to the Source of the River Isbourne (Circular)
Distance: Approx. 6 miles (9.7 km)
Difficulty: Moderate
Route & map
This circular walk follows the River Isbourne through open countryside to its source, before returning to Winchcombe. Passing through quiet farmland and gentle landscapes, it offers a peaceful route with a mix of natural and rural features.
Winchcombe and the Sudeley Valley (Miles Without Stiles)
Distance: Approx. 3 miles (4.8 km)
Difficulty: Easy
Route & map
This route explores the Sudeley Valley on accessible paths suitable for a range of users, including those avoiding stiles. With views towards surrounding hills and historic parkland, it provides a relaxed way to experience the landscape around Winchcombe.
Winchcombe – Scamper up the Scarp (Walks with Stiles)
Distance: Approx. 5 miles (8 km)
Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
Route & map
A more challenging walk climbing up the Cotswold escarpment, this route rewards walkers with wide-reaching views across the surrounding countryside. Expect steeper sections and stiles, making it best suited to those with a good level of fitness.
Winchcombe (Miles Without Stiles)
Distance: Approx. 2 miles (3.2 km)
Difficulty: Easy
Route & map
A gentle route around Winchcombe using accessible paths and avoiding stiles where possible. Ideal for a shorter walk, it offers an easy way to explore the town’s surroundings and nearby countryside.
Winchcombe to Buckland via Hailes
Distance: Approx. 7–8 miles (11–13 km)
Difficulty: Moderate
Route & map
This linear walk follows part of the Cotswold Way, heading out of Winchcombe towards Buckland via Hailes. Passing through countryside and woodland, it offers a varied route with views and historic features along the way.
The Windrush Way (Eastbound)
Distance: 13 miles (21.5km)
Difficulty: Challenging
Route & map
A longer-distance trail passing near Winchcombe, the Windrush Way offers a more challenging option for experienced walkers. Following countryside paths and tracks, it links a series of landscapes across the Cotswolds.
Winchcombe to Broadway
Distance: Approx. 6–7 miles (10–11 km)
Difficulty: Moderate
Route & map
This route connects Winchcombe with the village of Broadway, following well-established walking trails through classic Cotswold scenery. With a mix of open countryside, woodland and views from higher ground, it provides a rewarding longer walk.
Find more Winchcombe walking routes on the Winchcombe Welcomes Walkers website and both guided & self-guided walks on the Cotswolds National Landscape website.