Hailey to Checkenden Circular Walk (9 Miles)

Start time: 10:30
Walk grading: Moderate 14.7km / 9.1mi (ascent: 268m / 879ft)
Led by: Oli

Immerse yourself in beautiful Chiltern countryside, peaceful woodlands, and great company on this rewarding circular walk through some of South Oxfordshire’s most picturesque landscapes. Our route begins and ends in Exlade Street, a small hamlet nestled amongst rolling hills and ancient woodland.

This will be a joint walk with our friends from the Hike Oxfordshire group, offering a fantastic opportunity to meet like-minded people and forge new friendships along the way.

Setting off from Exlade Street, we immediately join a footpath that climbs gently through open fields before crossing Corker's Lane and continuing towards the charming village of Checkendon. Passing the village church, we'll follow quiet tracks lined with impressive country homes and beautiful gardens before heading onwards towards Scots Farm.

From here, we join a peaceful single-track lane through the woodlands and commons of Scots Common, before continuing past Homer Farm and descending gently through open countryside alongside Little Common and Bixmoor Wood.

Our halfway stop is at The King William in Ipsden, a delightful country pub boasting spectacular views across the surrounding hills. Here we'll enjoy our packed lunch and a well-earned drink while taking in the scenery.

Refreshed, we'll continue through some of the most scenic parts of the route, passing Warren Hill Farm and the tiny hamlet of Well Place, where rolling fields and far-reaching views showcase the very best of the Chilterns. The route then winds through a mixture of fields and woodland paths via Berins Hill and Yewtree Brow before joining the Chiltern Way towards Woodcote.

After a short loop through the village, we'll make our way back to Exlade Street. To round off the day, there's the option to gather at The Highwayman Inn — the perfect place to relax, swap stories from the walk, and enjoy a well-earned drink together before heading home.

We look forward to sharing this beautiful journey with you!

*Non-Ramblers members are welcome and are able to attend 3 walks before joining the Ramblers*

Please bring a packed lunch and plenty of water.
Walking boots or suitable footwear for hiking is required.

👣 Walk Details: This is a circular route 14.72km (approx 9 miles)

- Meeting Location Start & End: Exlade Street, Reading RG8 0UA (meet outside The Highwayman Inn)

Google Maps Pin Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/BvgnohhPeS4GcWqK6

Map Route: OS Survey Maps Page: https://explore.osmaps.com/route/30621361/hailey-to-checkenden-circular-walk?lat=51.54779&lon=-1.06062&zoom=13.8131&overlays=os-obstacles-layer&style=TopoAuto&type=2d

Please refer to the meeting location using the above Google Maps link.

🌧️ Weather Precautions: While we hope for dry weather, it's wise to be prepared. Please bring suitable footwear and an anorak if rain is forecasted.

🚗 Getting There: For those arriving by car, there is free roadside parking along Exlade Street. Parking maybe a little scattered so please ensure you arrive in good time so you have enough time to find a suitable space.

For those who maybe considering car sharing, for your upmost safety we please ask you to travel together in groups where possible or at least with a driver you already know.

Look forward to seeing you all :)

Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a lead at all times.

It helps us if you to sign up and tell us you're coming. If you sign up and later find out you cannot attend please change your RSVP on Meetup so we're not waiting for you.

Become a full member: CYW are a part of the Ramblers and you may try up to three walks free. When you decide to continue walking with us, please join the Ramblers via 'Become a member'.

https://www.chilterns2030s.org.uk/new-members/becoming-a-member

Did you know we're on Instagram? Follow us at @ChilternYoungWalkers to see pictures from our walks!