Walks
Public rights of way are common in the UK, giving the public legal permission to pass over designated paths. You’ll see signs for public ways, footpaths or bridleways which allow the public to use the specific paths on private land. Because of this, there are so many walks available. The website alltrails.com is a great place to find nearby walks, it asks you to sign up to access information but you don’t need a paid membership to access the basic levels of information.
Near to Owlpen
Cotswolds Way
The Cotswolds Way is a 102 mile (164 km) walking trail from Chipping Camden to Bath. It follows the western edge of the Cotswold Hill and passes near to Owlpen. The trail can be walked in sections so it is possible to walk parts of the trail that interest you. The website has route descriptions, maps, and FAQs: nationaltrail.co.uk/en_GB/trails/cotswold-way
Tyndale Monument
An out-and-back-trail to the Tyndale Monument, looking out across the distant Severn Estuary. The start and end point is in Wotton-under-Edge which is 5 miles from Owlpen. The route sticks to the Cotswold Way so navigation is straightforward. countryfile.com/go-outdoors/walks/tyndale-monument-cotswolds
Slimbridge Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust
A wetland wildlife reserve is home to thousands of birds, mammals and other wildlife. It is a mecca for birdwatchers and has activities for children.
wwt.org.uk/wetland-centres/slimbridge
Further afield in the Cotswolds
There are several walks between villages in the Northern Cotswolds such as Bourton-on-the-Water and Stow-on-the-Wold, and around Upper and Lower Slaughter.
The Broadway Tower circular is also a popular route through the village of Broadway to Broadway Tower on the peak of Broadway Hill.
alltrails.com/trail/england/gloucestershire/bourton-on-the-water-and-stow-on-the-wold-circular
alltrails.com/trail/england/worcestershire/broadway-tower-circular
Wales
Symonds Yat is a viewpoint above the River Wye. It’s a short walk from the car park to the viewpoint but there are a range of walking trails taking you all over the forest.
forestryengland.uk/symonds-yat-rock/walking-trails-symonds-yat-rock
The Forest of Dean and Wye Valley has a range of shorter and longer trails, including the 136 mile Wye Valley Walk. The landscape is idyllic with ancient forest and a winding river valley. It’s a very beautiful area to explore!
visitdeanwye.co.uk/things-to-do/walking
Further into Wales are the Brecon Beacons and the highest mountain in Southern Wales, Pen y Fan. There are lots of walks in this area and it’s a stunning place to explore.