Southern Oxfordshire is a walker’s paradise, brimming with challenging national trails, lightly energetic circular walks and charming market town trails that explore the natural scenic beauty.
Whether you’re a seasoned walker looking for active hiking trails or a family looking for a lightly active adventure, there is something for everyone. From scavenger hunts and nature trails, to historic discoveries and film and tv location trails, below you will find a curated selection of trails developed by a variety of experts, local societies and enthusiasts to ensure you make the most of your visit.
Discover Uffington’s history and charm with the interactive village trail. Seek out markers and information posts at key locations.
Seek out 12 silly signs (or Frivolously Unnecessary Notices (FUN) that date back to 1935. Covered with plaster or painted over the years, these sign have been revealed and restored, providing a fun trail of discovery.
Explore a collection of excellent walking, cycling and historical trails in and around Thame, from light strolls to more advanced 20 miles walks. Pick up a leaflet from Thame Town Hall Information Centre, or download them from the Town Council website.
Abingdon Civic Society have developed a collection of history trails and pub walks for you to enjoy. These include accessible trails identified as suitable for families or people with limited mobility.
Wallingford is one of the locations of Causton, home to the main character, Detective Chief Inspector Tom Barnaby, who was often seen wandering around the town’s Market Place or driving across Wallingford Bridge.
Enjoy a self-guided walking trail around Thame, featuring all the locations used around the town centre. Paid for guided tours are also available to book.
The Peculiar Pot is an interactive story trail using QR codes, weaving elements of Thame’s history into a magical and intriguing tale of adventure. The trail is set in three locations, in three very different time frames, all of which are connected to Thame’s heritage and history, as well as to its future.
This five mile circular walk around Wallingford takes you past places that are connected with Agatha Christie and her life in Wallingford.
Discover Abingdon’s royal and Victorian heritage with three wheelchair-accessible walks. The Royal History Walk explores royal connections, the Victoria Walk visits Victorian gardens, and the Albert Walk showcases Albert Park and Victorian architecture.
Wander through arches and alleyways of Abingdon and discover doors, windows, artwork and other quirky bits of the town that you didn’t know were there. Follow the fun picture trail clues and explore the town.
Discover awe-inspiring public artwork around town, commissioned to encourage artists to share skills with local groups. These pieces aim to inspire both residents and visitors, showcasing the vibrant creativity of the community. Explore the artistic spirit of the town and enjoy the unique blend of talent and local culture.
Discover three family friendly natural trails around Abingdon. Follow the signs to explore each path and enjoy the natural beauty and features along the way. Hedgehog Trail (3.4 km/2.1 miles), Dragonfly Trails (2.6 km/1.6 miles), Duck Trail (3.6 km/2.2 miles).
Vale of White Horse District Council's Active Communities Team work across the district to help residents with their physical health and wellbeing.
Check out a list of GO Active Community Walks in Southern Oxfordshire.
Downloadable walking routes from across the area for you to enjoy in your own time.
Oxfordshire has some wonderful countryside, parks, towns and villages to explore. Embrace the outdoors in your area!
The Thames Path National Trail is a long-distance walking trail that follows England’s most famous river for 185 miles (298 km), from its source in the Cotswolds to the Thames Barrier in Woolwich, London. This scenic trail meanders through rural counties, passing peaceful water meadows, historic towns and picturesque villages, making it an ideal route for nature and history enthusiasts.
A section of the Thames Path passes through South Oxfordshire and the Vale of White Horse districts. Beginning near Lechlade, the trail moves through Radcot with its historic bridge and Kelmscott, the home of William Morris. It continues through Newbridge, Abingdon with its ancient Abbey, and Dorchester-on-Thames, known for its abbey. Further along, the trail passes through Wallingford and Goring and Streatley, renowned for their scenic beauty, and Henley-on-Thames, famous for its Royal Regatta.
Accessible by public transport, the Thames Path is a mostly flat and easy-to-navigate trail, well-marked for convenience.
Whether you’re planning a short stroll, a weekend getaway or a full-length trek, this National Trail offers a gentle, yet rewarding, experience. The best time to visit is from April to May, ideal for birdwatching, and until September for wildflowers. For enthusiasts of butterflies, damselflies and dragonflies, June to September is the perfect time to visit.
South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse District Councils, Abbey House, Abbey Close, Abingdon, OX14 3JE
This website has been built as a joint venture by South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse District Councils, as part of a project funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. The Fund aims to improve pride in place and increase life chances across the UK, invest in communities and place, support local businesses and people, and develop skills.
For more information, read the UK Shared Prosperity Fund prospectus.