4.5
(887)
4,681
hikers
244
hikes
Hikes around Whichford explore the rolling hills of the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The landscape is characterized by a mix of verdant woodlands, such as Whichford Wood, and open meadows. The terrain offers a variety of routes through the countryside, with gentle elevation changes suitable for many fitness levels.
Last updated: May 8, 2026
4.1
(12)
47
hikers
6.30km
01:43
100m
100m
Embark on a moderate hike through the classic English countryside, covering 3.9 miles (6.3 km) with an elevation gain of 320 feet (98 metres). This loop typically takes around 1 hour and 43 minutes to complete. As you follow the path, you will find yourself winding through shaded woodlands and open fields, offering a peaceful journey. Keep an eye out for the charming St Peter and St Paul Church and its lychgate in Long Compton, a notable landmark along the way.
You can begin this hike conveniently from the village of Long Compton, where parking is generally available. Be aware that some sections of the trail can become muddy and slippery, especially after rainfall, so choose your footwear accordingly. Planning your visit for drier conditions will ensure a more comfortable experience on the route.
This trail offers a quintessential experience within the beautiful Cotswolds National Landscape. It provides a gentle immersion into the region's characteristic scenery, blending natural beauty with glimpses of historical architecture. The route is a great way to explore the area's unique charm and enjoy a refreshing outdoor activity.
4.5
(15)
73
hikers
14.4km
03:56
220m
220m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.5
(2)
11
hikers
10.2km
02:49
170m
170m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(2)
12
hikers
14.1km
03:51
220m
220m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
11
hikers
5.13km
01:26
100m
100m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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At the heart of many beautiful roads and climbs in the North Cotswolds
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"The name "Brailes" is thought to originate either from the Old Welsh breg-lis - "hill court" - or the Old English byrgels - "burial place". Castle Hill Motte in the middle of the village is a natural knoll that was made higher in the Norman era to form the motte of a motte-and-bailey castle. Its construction may have been ordered by Roger de Beaumont, who was Earl of Warwick from 1123β53. Earthworks of both the motte and the bailey survive, and the site is a Scheduled Monument. Brailes was the home of William de Brailes, a 13th-century medieval painter of illuminated manuscripts. Of the many artists who painted such manuscripts, William is one of only two whose name has been recorded. It was also the birthplace of Thomas de Brayles (died c.1340), a senior judge and Crown official of the early fourteenth century, whose highest office was Chancellor of the Irish Exchequer. On the other side of Stocks Hill is Brailes House, the former home to the Sheldon family. The Sheldons have held the manor of Brailes since 1547." Source: Wikipedia https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brailes
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This was a damp, drizzly, mizzly evening so the view was a bit limited. However, I imagine that on a sunny, summer evening or a crisp, clear winters morning the views will be spectacular.
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nice road side village from which you can start plenty rides into this part of the Cotswolds. Don't miss the store for refueling.
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Fabulous walk allowing you to see the stone monuments erected 3,800 years BC. Special attention when you park by the road as there are thiefβs that break your car window and take your belongings. This couple that arrive 10 minutes before us had their passports stolen! We opted to park in Salford and do the walk starting there. Safe parking there and plenty of spaces.
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The George Inn at Brailes is a traditional 16th century Cotswold pub that serves up a delicious range of traditional and continental food and local Hooky beers. The pub has a number of cosy rooms as well as a large beer garden and pool table.
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Iβm going to second the gravel comment, if it has rained recently it can get a bit more gravel than road.
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Yes, the area around Whichford is generally very dog-friendly, with many trails crossing open fields and woodlands where dogs can often walk off-leash. However, always be mindful of livestock in fields and local signage. It's a good practice to keep your dog on a lead when near farm animals or on paths shared with other users.
Definitely. The region offers many gentle walks perfect for a family outing. The terrain is mostly rolling hills without steep climbs. Look for shorter circular routes, like those exploring Whichford Wood, which provide a safe and engaging environment for children to explore nature.
Yes, there are numerous circular routes available. Hiking around Whichford is ideal for loop walks that bring you back to your starting point. These trails often combine woodland paths with open countryside, showcasing the best of the Cotswolds landscape without the need to retrace your steps.
The woodland walks are a key feature of hiking here. Whichford Wood itself offers a network of shaded paths, which are especially pleasant on a warm day. You can expect to find trails winding through ancient trees and seasonal wildflowers. For another excellent woodland experience, the highly-regarded Heart of England Forest at Giddings Wood is also nearby.
Yes, combining a good walk with a pub stop is a popular local pastime. A great option is the The George Inn, Brailes β Historic Church and Cemetery loop from Cherington. This route allows you to enjoy the beautiful countryside between the villages before rewarding yourself with a visit to a classic pub.
The area is rich in history. Several trails pass by significant landmarks. For a walk that takes you back in time, consider the King's Men Stone Circle β The King Stone loop from Great Rollright, which leads you to the ancient and mysterious Rollright Stones, a ceremonial stone circle dating back thousands of years.
There is a wide variety of trails to choose from. You can explore over 240 different hiking routes in the region, ranging from short, easy strolls to more challenging all-day excursions. This extensive network ensures there's a path for every fitness level and interest.
The hiking routes around Whichford are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Hikers often praise the quintessential Cotswolds scenery, the peaceful woodland sections, and the well-maintained paths through open meadows.
The terrain is typical of the Cotswolds: expect gently rolling hills, not steep mountains. Hikes here are a pleasant mix of walking on field paths, through shaded woodlands, and along quiet country lanes. The elevation changes are generally moderate, making it accessible for most regular walkers.
Many walks begin in villages like Whichford, Long Compton, or Great Rollright, where on-street parking is often available, but please park considerately. For routes visiting specific attractions like the Rollright Stones, there is usually dedicated parking available nearby.
While Whichford itself isn't directly on a major national trail, it's situated within a landscape crisscrossed by an extensive network of public footpaths. You can easily create longer, more challenging day hikes by linking several shorter circular routes together to explore the wider Cotswolds area.


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