BEGINNERS HIKE 18KM Wind in the Willows: Woodland, River & Photography adventure

This picturesque route offers an escape into the heart of the English countryside, where ancient woodlands, captivating wildlife, and charming villages blend seamlessly with the rich history of the rural River Thames.

Our trail follows the iconic Thames Path, winding its way through ancient woodlands, peaceful marshes, and across the river from the renowned Cliveden estate, where history, grandeur and beauty converge. Along the way, you’ll discover stunning views, iconic landmarks, and a glimpse into centuries of British history. Highlights include Sir Stanley Spencer's home village as well as Bisham Woods and the views from Winter Hill which inspired Kenneth Graham to write "Wind in the Willows". Our adventure also takes us through the historic village of Cookham, referred to as “a village in heaven” by artist Stanley Spencer.

The hike culminates in Maidenhead, a market town, famous for its impressive bridges and rich literary connections. Experience the beauty of rural England along one of its most famous rivers.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Explore the scenic rural Thames Path with its Thames side meadows.
• Visit Cookham village, home to the famous painter Stanley Spencer
• Discover the site of Saxon Queen Cynethryths 'lost' 8th century monastery
• Pass ancient Bronze Age burial mounds at Cock Marsh
• Enjoy panoramic views of the Thames from Winter Hill
• Walk through Bisham Woods which inspired The Wind in the Willows
• Pass near by the estate of Cliveden, an Italianate mansion built for a Duke and home to one of the biggest political scandals in British history – the Profumo Affair
• Cross the famous Boulters Lock, a popular spot for boating and a favourite for Victorian society
• End in the historic market town of Maidenhead, home to Brunel’s iconic railway bridge built in 1835

HIKE DESCRIPTION

Our hike begins in the idyllic village of Cookham, a place filled with artistic and literary history that inspired both Sir Stanley Spencer and Kenneth Grahame, author of The Wind in the Willows. We pass through Cookhams charming streets, past the Stanley Spencer’s gallery and his memorial stone in the Holy Trinity Church. Continuing along, we step foot into the enchanting Bisham Woods. Steeped in history, these woods were once part of the Royal Forests of Windsor and the home of Lady Hoby, whose ghost is still believed to wander amidst the towering trees. As we pass through, we’ll encounter a range of wildlife, from birds of prey to diverse flora. As we leave the woods behind, we’ll make our way along the Thames Path, in his book The Thames - a Photographic journey from Source to Sea, the author claims this to be the most photogenic section of the Thames. Our route follows the meandering river through a variety of landscapes, from lush woodlands to open fields and marshes.

Next, we journey to Winter Hill, where we’ll pause to take in sweeping vistas of the Thames Valley. The path continues along the river through Cock Marsh, offering glimpses of ancient burial mounds and the edge of Cliveden's grand estate. We’ll also pass by Boulters Lock, a historic site that once attracted Victorian society. Our walk finishes in Maidenhead, where the Thames Path leads us into this market town. The town is best known for the Maidenhead Railway Bridge, a triumph of Victorian engineering designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel.

This hike is a delightful blend of nature, history, and culture—an ideal way to explore the heart of Berkshire while discovering the rural and historic River Thames.

MEETING POINT

Paddington station 8:30am, leave at 8:50am for the 9:08am train. Meet at the entrance of the main ticket office - MAP

Planned arrival back into London is 5:20pm (you are committed until then)

GUIDE - GRAHAM 07796 098487 (only for use during the hike) ABOUT US

FOOD - Bring a packed lunch, we usually visit a pub after the hike for drinks

DISTANCE & DIFFICULTY

Distance: 11.5 miles (18km)
Grading: Beginners/Intermediate - almost flat, but quite long...
Ascent: 140m
Hiking time: 5 to 5.5 hours
Convenience breaks: Pub at midday, pub at end

COST & PAYMENT

£29 including the guided hike and return train travel, click “Attend” to join.
Payments are non-refundable and non-transferable but we have a process to release your space for RESALE, if your space sells you will be refunded.

WHAT TO BRING

• Hiking clothes & footwear - ideally hiking boots. Hat & gloves if cold, waterproof jacket & trousers KIT LINK
• Water (2 litres)
• Lunch
• We arrange train tickets and logistics, so just turn up and have a great day 😁

SAFETY - Your guide is a trained hike leader and Outdoor Activity First Aider

Instagram 📸
Day hikes list 👣
Calendar - All trips 📖
Facebook page & Photos group

TERMS AND CONDITIONS - By signing up or attending you agree to these

© Outdooraholics Hiking UK Ltd 2025 E & OE