FREE HIKE 26 km | Henley-on-Thames & the Forested Hills of Oxfordshire

A scenic circular hike through riverside paths, quiet forests, and historic villages in Oxfordshire

This walk begins in Henley-on-Thames, a picturesque market town set on the banks of the River Thames. Known for the Henley Royal Regatta, it features a charming centre filled with independent shops, traditional pubs, and welcoming cafés.

From here, we follow the gentle curve of the Thames, taking in peaceful riverside views and a calm pastoral landscape.

We cross a weir and meander down quiet countryside lanes before rejoining the river, where open pastures stretch alongside the flowing water.

As the scenery shifts, the route leads away from the Thames and into the ancient woodlands of the Chilterns. Gentle inclines and time-worn tracks guide us through secluded copses, once historic routes that are now tranquil retreats among private estates. In spring, the woodland floor bursts into life with carpets of bluebells, offering a serene contrast to the open riverside terrain.

A highlight of the hike is a stop in Hambleden, a beautifully preserved village famed for its red-brick and flint cottages, medieval church, and timeless rural charm. Look to the skies for Red Kites, graceful birds of prey with forked tails and striking plumage, often seen gliding above the Chiltern Hills.

The final stretch takes us through shady woods, quiet country lanes, and open fields before looping back to Henley, where there’s time to relax or enjoy a well-earned drink at a local pub.

This isn’t just a walk for exercise. It’s a well-rounded countryside experience: scenic, peaceful, varied, and rich in heritage.

This circular route is rated moderate and best suited to intermediate hikers. It is not recommended for beginners. The riverside paths are mostly flat, while woodland sections feature moderate inclines and some uneven ground.

🌟 HIGHLIGHTS:

• Enjoy a peaceful walk along the scenic River Thames.
• Explore serene forests and moderate hills with sweeping valley views.
• Visit a charming village of red-brick cottages and a medieval church.
• Graceful birds of prey often seen soaring above the Chiltern Hills.
• Begin and end in a beautiful market town with riverside pubs and shops.

📍 MEETING POINT AND OUTBOUND TRAINS:

• It is recommended that we travel as a group to ensure everyone arrives at the starting point together, at the same time, and boards the same train. If the London service is delayed, we risk missing the Henley-on-Thames connection and may need to wait for the next available train.
• Please check National Rail web site for exact times on the day
• 08:15 – Meet outside the ticket office, London Paddington train Station
• 08:25 – Head to platform and board train
• 08:38 – Train departs London Paddington
• 09:07– Change at Twyford
• 09:15– Train departs Twyford (Platform 5) to Henley-On-Thames
• 09:27– Arrive at Henley-On-Thames
• 🎟️ Purchase a return ticket to Henley-On-Thames (~£15:85 with a Network Railcard)

🚶WALK STARTS:

• 09:30 – From Henley-On-Thames train station

🏁 WALK FINISHES:

• Approximately. 16:30– Henley-On-Thames

RETURN TRAINS:

• 17:30 – From Henley-On-Thames
• 17:42 – Change at Twyford
• 17:49 – Train departs Twyford (Platform 4) to London Paddington
• 18:20 – Arrive London Paddington

⚠️ TERRAIN, CONDITIONS AND DIFFICULTY:

• Distance: ~26 km (16 miles)
• Walking Time: ~6 hours
• Total Duration: ~7 hours (including breaks)
• Ascent: 417 m | Descent: 414 m
• Max Elevation: 158 m | Min Elevation: 27 m
• Pace: Steady and moderate (4.5–5 km/h) – faster than a stroll, but relaxed enough for conversation and enjoyment of the surroundings.
• Difficulty: Moderate – mostly flat riverside paths with some steeper, uneven woodland sections. Best suited to intermediate walkers.

🥪 LUNCH

• Approx 13:00 (about 3.5 hours and 17.5 km into the hike)
• Please note: There are no pub or café stops for the 10-mile stretch leading up to the lunch break. Make sure to carry enough water💧 to stay hydrated throughout this section, we recommend bringing 2 to 3 litres on a really hot sunny day.

🎒WHAT TO BRING:

• Packed lunch and snacks
• Water (at least 2L) - On a hot day bring 3L as there is no water refils until lunch time.
• Sturdy hiking boots
• Layers and waterproof clothing
• Sun protection
• Medication and basic first aid (Compeed for blisters)
• Optional walking poles
• Fully charged phone
• Camera for some pictures

📞CONTACT:

• Message the event host directly via Meetup with any questions.

❗DISCLAIMER:
⚖️ Disclaimer & Group Policy
⚠️ Event Participation Disclaimer
By attending any hike, you acknowledge and agree:

• Organisers are not certified guides or first aiders
• Hikes are informal and self-guided
• Participation is voluntary and at your own risk
• We’re a recreational hobby group, not a business
• Outdoor activities carry risks; by joining, you accept them

📋 General Group Policy

• You join voluntarily at your own risk
• Organisers are not liable and have no professional duty of care
• You must arrange your own insurance if needed
• Follow Leave No Trace at all times
• Be ready for emergencies and changing weather
• Assess your fitness honestly
• Help may be offered, but rescue is not guaranteed
• No minors, participants must be over the age of 21
• Hosts may refuse entry to those who seem unfit or unsafe
• Carry your own basic first aid kit or minor injuries such as cuts, scrapes, bites, and blisters.

✅ Final Acknowledgement
By joining, you confirm that you understand and accept all the above. Your safety is your responsibility. Neither the host nor the group accepts responsibility for any injury, loss, or damage incurred.