Theale to Sulham Woods Circular Walk – A Summer Sunday Escape, 6 miles, easy

Join me for a scenic and enjoyable 6-mile countryside walk starting from Theale Station. This is a new walk joining up various paths for walks I have led over the years with a combination of new paths I've never led walks down before!

Advance booking is not required, but if you plan on attending this walk, please indicate this on Meetup if you can, so others can see that there will be plenty of people going.

This walk will be led by Jason O..

Please see our website for more information about the group.

Walk details

We’ll meet at 11:15am outside the station entrance and begin our journey along the peaceful Kennet and Avon Canal towpath. This tranquil stretch takes us past the picturesque Garston Lock, under the M4, and into a more rural setting.

We’ll pause here for a break and enjoy our packed lunch in the woods, so do remember to bring something to eat and drink.

Our route then winds through the green expanse of Linear Park, before crossing the A4 Bath Road and continuing across Calcot Recreation Ground. From there, we skirt the back of Tilehurst and enter the shady and atmospheric Sulham Woods, a beautiful stretch of woodland perfect for walking on a summer’s day.

A highlight of the walk will be a visit to the striking Wilder’s Folly, a historic and romantic 18th-century tower offering lovely views of the surrounding countryside.

The final stretch takes us past IKEA, back over the M4, and returns us to Theale Station, completing a gentle circular route.

The walk is mostly flat with some uneven terrain, so sturdy footwear is recommended.

Optional pub stop in Theale on the way back will be available for those who fancy a well earned drink!

Travel details

Parking is available at Theale Station, but is chargeable. The station is also well served by public transport for those arriving by train or bus. If you are coming from Reading, catch the 10.43am train which arrives in Theale at 10.50am. If you are coming from Newbury, catch the 10.57am train which arrives in Theale at 11.10am

Please contact the leader directly if you are delayed on the day or can't find the group (find contact details on our website). We are unlikely to respond to Meetup comments or messages sent on the day in enough time to be helpful.