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Hike Oxfordshire

We are the Hike Oxfordshire Ramblers. We open the way for everyone in our local community to enjoy the pleasures of walking.

Join the Ramblers and enjoy

  • unlimited free access to 50,000 Ramblers group walks
  • a library jam-packed with thousands of tried-and-tested routes
  • a welcome pack teeming with top tips plus our Walk magazine
  • exclusive discounts from our partners
  • knowing your support is opening up more places to walk and helping more people discover the joy of walking
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Overview

Join us for a delightful 10.5 mile walk that promises breathtaking scenery, invigorating exercise, and great company. Starting and ending in the picturesque village of Benson, south of Oxford, this journey will lead us through some of the most beautiful landscapes Oxfordshire has to offer.

Our adventure begins as we traverse the luscious fields of Gallos Leaze and Ladybrook Copse, making our way to the charming village of Dorchester. Here, we’ll meander through the heart of the village before heading towards Day's Lock on the River Thames. This picturesque spot will lead us over the footbridge, setting the stage for our climb up the famous landmark, Wittenham Clumps.

The short but steep ascent rewards us with stunning panoramic views, making our well-deserved snack and lunch stop all the more enjoyable. We'll take a moment to relax and soak in the beauty of Oxfordshire from the top.

After lunch, we’ll venture over the second hill of Wittenham Clumps, revealing a fresh set of vistas across the southern landscape. Descending from the Clumps, our path takes us through the serene Little Wittenham Woods, where ancient trees provide a canopy of tranquility. Beyond the woods, we’ll cross the green pastures near Lowerhill Farm and head towards Shillingford. Here, we’ll traverse the old arch bridge, leading us onto a lovely stretch of riverside walk back towards Benson.

Our final destination is the well-known Riverside Café and boat park, a perfect spot to unwind. The café boasts a bar and a tempting menu of hot & cold food and snacks, including a Ben & Jerry's ice cream parlour – a delightful treat to end our walk 😋This is a fantastic opportunity to socialize in good company, make new friends, and enjoy the natural beauty of our surroundings.

We look forward to sharing this beautiful journey with you!

Please bring a packed lunch and plenty of water.

Walking boots or suitable footwear for hiking is required.

Please arrive at 10:15 ready to leave at 10:30

👣 Walk Details: This is a circular route 16.95km (approx 10.5 miles)

- Meeting Location Start & End: ST Helens Avenue, Benson OX10 6RY

Google Maps Pin Location:
https://www.google.co.uk/maps/search/51.619310,+-1.113854?entry=tts&g_ep=EgoyMDI0MDcyNC4wKgBIAVAD

Map Route: OS Survey Maps Page:
https://explore.osmaps.com/route/22580646/benson-to-little-wittenham-circular-walk?lat=51.63674&lon=-1.15835&zoom=13.7616&style=Leisure&type=2d

We'll meet at the at the start of ST Helens Avenue, nearby the main road (A4074) which can find easily on Google Maps using the above link.

🌧️ Weather Precautions: While we hope for dry weather, it's wise to be prepared. Please bring suitable footwear and an anorak if rain is forecasted.

🚗 Getting There: For those arriving by car, there is plenty of parking St Helens Avenue, we just ask you please resepct nearby propeties and refrain from parking near to or across people's driveways. There is a frequent bus service from Oxford to Reading (X40) thats stops at Benson, please plan your journey accordingly to make sure you arrive on time.

For those who maybe considering car sharing, for your upmost safety we please ask you to travel together in groups where possible or at least with a driver you already know.

Look forward to seeing you all :)

Sunday, 18 May 2025
Start time:
10:30 am
Estimated finish time:
4:00 pm
Difficulty:
Moderate
Distance:
16.9km / 10.5mi
Ascent:
117m / 384ft
Type:
circular

Features

  • Toilets available
  • Car parking available
  • Car sharing available
  • Dog friendly
  • Family-Friendly

Starting point

Grid reference:
SU 61450 91527
Nearest postcode:
OX10 6RZ
what3words:
nature.moderated.fancy
Start time:
10:30 am

See google map pin in description for deatils

Join the Ramblers and enjoy

  • unlimited free access to 50,000 Ramblers group walks
  • a library jam-packed with thousands of tried-and-tested routes
  • a welcome pack teeming with top tips plus our Walk magazine
  • exclusive discounts from our partners
  • knowing your support is opening up more places to walk and helping more people discover the joy of walking