Walking for Pleasure

Make the most of the countryside - On foot

A guide to walking for pleasure in and around Reading for those who enjoy the outdoor life.

The Thames Path

The Thames Path is a unique countryside national trail - the only one to follow a river throughout its length. It stretches 184 miles from its source in The Cotswolds and ends at the Thames barrier, near Greenwich, just a few miles from the sea. Along the Thames you can enjoy rich and contrasting landscapes as the river flows through quiet country villages historic towns and cities. Walking the Thames Path will take at least 12 to 15 days.

The Thames Path has plenty to offer from long walks taking several days or a short weekend stroll and it provides a selection of short walks suitable for all ages and abilities. It is easy to get to, with a wealth of public transport providing access along the route as well as plenty of pubs to stop for a welcome break!

Reading to Henley

9 1/2 miles

This section of the Thames Path takes you past the junction with the Kennet and Avon Canal and into an extremely beautiful section of the river heading towards Henley. On the way, you can see the interesting 18th century Sonning Bridge with its 11 arches spanning the three channels of the river.

Reading to Goring

10 1/2 miles

An enjoyable rural walk most of the way. The Thames walk follows the south Bank under the Reading Bridge to Caversham Bridge to Tilehurst, Purley over Mapledurham Lock to the beautiful village of Panghourne and then Whitchurch passing Basildon Park onto Goring and Streatley.

A variety of accommodation Is available either on or very close to the Thames Path. You can choose to stay in traditional farmhouses, village inns, B&Bs or hotels or even camping along the Thames Path. For more Information on the Thanes Path and Accommodation contact Reading Information Centre, Town Hall 0118 956 6225.

The Ridgeway

The Ridgeway can he easily reached from Reading. A challenging walk on the Ridgeway is the cross country route at Streatley and Heading East to Mongewell or West to Bury Down. The Ridgeway Explorer Bus services runs from Reading in April to October and enables you to explore the historic Ridgeway National Trail, the Thames Path and the places of interests close to them.

Kennet and Avon walks

The Kennet and Avon Canal is 87 miles of beautiful waterway linking Reading and Bristol and is a National waterway walk This quiet waterway flows through historic towns, past secretive backwaters, and over rolling hills. Like the Thames Path there is a selection of walks along the towpath.

The Kennet Valley is served by Thames Trains giving you a wide choice of short walks and day trips.

Separate brochures on walks via Thames Trains are available from the Tourist Information Centre.

Sunday afternoons

Discover the hidden history and architectural splendor of Reading. Join us on a Heritage walk taking you to the heart of Reading. There is so much to learn and enjoy. Learn about the Museum of Reading. the towns ancient yet beautiful St. Laurence Church, the Forbury Reading Prison, Huntley and Palmer, The Kennet, the Abbey Ruins and the Abbey Gateway where Jane Austen attended school in 1785 and so much more, The Heritage walk lasts for about an hour and a half starting at the Queen Victoria Statue at Town Hall Square and are only available in Summer months. You can book your tickets at the Information Centre.