Around Reading

This is a 16 stages walk around Reading accessible from one railway station to another.
Start & End: Martin's Heron Railway Station (RG12 9TZ) Grid ref. SU 887 683

Stages of the route

This route needs several days, find the details below:

1. S

   Ascot to Windsor, around Reading

   12.23 km 80 m 107 m

   An interesting walk on good paths following the route of the royal procession from Ascot through Windsor Great Park and offering a 'surprise' view of Windsor Castle.

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2. 2

   Bourne End to Maidenhead via the Thames Path, around Reading

   8.97 km 8 m 7 m

   Follow the Thames Path through the lovely scenery of Cliveden Reach. Visit Boulter's lock, enjoy the wildlife on the newly-created Jubilee River and pass close to Eton College.

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3. 3

   Maidenhead to Windsor, around Reading

   10.61 km 8 m 8 m

   Follow the Thames Path through the lovely scenery of Cliveden Reach. Visit Boulter's lock, enjoy the wildlife on the newly-created Jubilee River and pass close to Eton College.

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4. 4

   Bourne End to Marlow, around Reading

   8.49 km 131 m 134 m

   An energetic walk with splendid views, through a picturesque village and ancient woodland.

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5. 5

   Marlow to Henley, around Reading

   13.85 km 31 m 27 m

   A mainly level walk along the scenic Thames Path then rising to overlook the famous regatta course before descending to the much-photographed river bridge and church in Henley-on-Thames.

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6. 6

   Sonning Common to Henley, around Reading

   8.76 km 81 m 136 m

   A varied walk passing through the lovely Chiltern countryside with its old churches in unspoiled villages, wooded slopes and glorious views.

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7. 7

   Sonning Common to Pangbourne, around Reading

   12.80 km 87 m 140 m

   After passing through the shady woods and well-tended farms of the beautiful Chiltern Hills enjoy the extensive views over the Thames Valley, before descending to the twin villages of Whitchurch and Pangbourne. This walk passes through some of the beautiful beech woods of the Chiltern Hills. This area of outstanding natural beauty is within easy reach of London, and an ideal location for a day out away from the stresses of everyday life. The footpaths in this area are well looked after by the Chiltern Society, and discreet arrows on the trees depict the rights of way.

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8. 8

   Pangbourne to Theale, around Reading

   8.08 km 62 m 59 m

   A hilly walk from the River Thames through bluebell woods to the hospitable village of Theale in the Kennet

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9. 9

   Aldermaston Wharf to Theale, around Reading

   6.83 km 1 m 11 m

   Enjoy the wildlife on this easy walk along the banks of the Kennet and Avon Canal.

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10. 10

    Aldermaston Wharf to Mortimer, around Reading

    11.96 km 86 m 91 m

    Visit a restored Norman church harbouring the remains of a bloody battle, wander through tranquil woodland and enjoy fine views of both the Kennet and Loddon Valleys.

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11. 11

    Mortimer to Bramley, around Reading

    10.63 km 48 m 42 m

    A walk into history. Visit the 12th century church of St Mary and explore the site of Calleva Atrebatum, once a main administrative centre for Roman Britain.

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12. 12

    Bramley to Hook, around Reading

    11.18 km 47 m 20 m

    Water meadows, a water wheel, gently rolling countryside, shady copses and refreshments in a traditional English pub.

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13. 13

    Hook to Winchfield, around Reading

    11.57 km 11 m 20 m

    This walk leads to the ruins of 13th century Odiham Castle and the upper reaches of the River Whitewater, then follows the towpath along the scenic Basingstoke Canal.

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14. 14

    Crowthorne to Winchfield via Welsh Drive, around Reading

    16.52 km 122 m 129 m

    This walk is level at first alongside the Blackwater River then on higher ground through forest and heathland before descending to the Hart Valley.

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15. 15

    Crowthorne to Martins Heron via The Devil's Highway, around Reading

    12.86 km 69 m 71 m

    Passing through the grounds of Wellington College and crossing ancient forest and heath to an iron age fort and a heritage centre, this walk has plenty of interest.

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16. E

    Martin's Heron to Ascot, around Reading

    6.98 km 29 m 35 m

    A level walk through Swinley Park, part of the Crown Estate, then across Ascot Heath with a close-up view of the world-famous race course.

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