Watlington Park & Estate Circular Walk (9.5 miles)

Our circular walk begins and ends at the historic grounds of Watlington Hill, a peaceful corner of the Chilterns surrounded by sweeping beech woodland and gently rising hills. With its quiet tracks and rural charm, the park sets the scene perfectly for a rewarding day exploring one of the most scenic stretches of South Oxfordshire.

Setting out from the park, we head south along woodland paths that soon open into broad views across the Chiltern escarpment. The route leads us towards Greenfield, a small cluster of cottages tucked among rolling farmland and sheltered valleys. From here, we continue along a mix of field paths and quiet lanes that guide us steadily north-east towards Northend, a hilltop hamlet where the landscape begins to open into classic Chiltern scenery — chalky paths, sweeping ridgelines, and wide views over the treetops.

Around the halfway point, we’ll break for a well-earned packed lunch, taking time to rest and enjoy the stillness of the surrounding countryside before pressing on into the final stretch of the walk.

The afternoon route carries us south through stretches of beech woodland and rural tracks towards Christmas Common, where the trail emerges near The Fox Inn — an inviting stop for a drink as we near the end of our journey. Refreshed, we continue along peaceful woodland paths and gentle slopes that gradually descend back towards Watlington Hill Car Park.

Returning to the park, we bring the day to a relaxed close, having enjoyed a varied and scenic loop through some of the most charming corners of the Chilterns — the perfect opportunity to explore the Cotswolds at a relaxed pace, meet new friends, and enjoy the best of Oxfordshire’s countryside charm.

We look forward to sharing this beautiful journey with you!

*Non-Ramblers members are welcome and are able to attend 3 walks before joining the Ramblers*

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 15.72km (approx 9.7 miles)

- Meeting Location Start & End: Watlington Hill National Trust Car Park, Watlington OX49 5HS

Google Maps Pin Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/621JDkK13WCBr4kp7

Map Route: OS Survey Maps Page: https://explore.osmaps.com/route/22564699/watlington-park--estate-circular-walk?lat=51.63471&lon=-0.98749&zoom=14.2006&style=Leisure&type=2d

Please refer to the meeting location using the above Google Maps 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, for National Trust members, parking at Watlington Hill is free, while non-members can expect to pay around £3 for all-day parking. Non-members can also pay £1 per hour, with a maximum of £3 for the day. Payment options include coin and the PayByPhone app

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 :)