4.5
(510)
4,341
hikers
13
hikes
Bus station hiking trails around Shaw Cum Donnington offer access to a landscape characterized by rolling hills, ancient woodlands, and serene waterways. The region features diverse terrain, including riverside paths along the River Lambourn, open heathland at Snelsmore Common, and mature forests. Donnington Castle, a 14th-century ruin, is a prominent historical landmark often incorporated into routes. The area provides varied environments for walkers, from gentle strolls to more moderate hikes.
Last updated: May 3, 2026
4.5
(2)
18
hikers
9.65km
02:37
140m
140m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
11
hikers
4.40km
01:10
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4
hikers
9.11km
02:22
60m
60m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
hikers
3.90km
01:01
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
3
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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park opposite the pub, then pop in and buy something. it's nice to be nice
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If you like your castles with great views and steeped in history, you'll like this place.
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Newbury is in Berkshire, not Hampshire, and the canal never enters Hampshire either.
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Discover this rare holy well located in Speen in Newbury. Historically, the well was thought to have healing qualities, healing anything from eye diseases to measles and rickets.
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This is a beautiful little church situated in Spleen, in the larger district of Newbury. The original church that was built here dated back to 1086 and some of the remains of the original building still exist today. It's a pleasant place for a rest mid-walk.
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Newbury is a vibrant and bustling town located on the banks of the River Kennett in Hampshire. The town is known for its historic buildings, quaint shops, and busy markets, as well as a number of historical sites such as the ruins of Donnington Castle and the 12th-century St. Nicholas Church.
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Explore the medieval ruins of Donnington Castle and enjoy fantastic views over Newbury.
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Remarkably well preserved for such an ancient fort that was damaged during the English Civil War. It is accessible all year round but you can only view the outside.
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There are 13 hiking routes around Shaw Cum Donnington that are easily accessible from local bus stations. These routes offer a variety of experiences, from easy strolls to more moderate hikes through the region's diverse landscapes.
Yes, Shaw Cum Donnington offers several easy, family-friendly walks accessible by bus. For a pleasant short outing, consider the The Castle Pub Parking loop from Newbury, which is 4.4 km long. Another great option is the Cedar of Lebanon at Shaw House loop from Newbury, a 3.9 km route that is also considered easy.
Many of the routes in Shaw Cum Donnington are designed as circular walks, perfect for returning to your starting point. Popular options include the 9.7 km Donnington Castle – Donnington Castle loop from Newbury, which offers historical sights and scenic views, and the shorter 4.4 km The Castle Pub Parking loop from Newbury.
The bus-accessible hikes around Shaw Cum Donnington showcase a rich variety of natural landscapes. You'll encounter picturesque rolling hills, ancient woodlands, and tranquil sections along the River Lambourn. The region is also home to Snelsmore Common, featuring heathland and wet mires, and Rack Marsh Nature Reserve, known for its wetland wildflowers and birdlife.
Absolutely! Many trails incorporate historical landmarks. A prominent feature is the 14th-century Donnington Castle, whose ruins and earthworks are a significant attraction. You might also pass charming listed buildings in the villages of Shaw and Donnington. For a longer route that includes historical elements, try the Donnington Castle – Donnington Castle loop from Newbury.
Yes, some routes offer opportunities to stop at local pubs. The The Castle Pub Parking loop from Newbury is a short, easy route that starts and ends near a pub, making it convenient for refreshments. The area also features other pubs like The Rowbarge, which might be accessible from other trails.
The hiking trails around Shaw Cum Donnington are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse terrain, the peaceful ancient woodlands, and the historical points of interest like Donnington Castle. The mix of riverside paths, open heathland, and forest trails provides a varied and engaging experience for walkers.
Yes, there are several beginner-friendly trails accessible by bus. Many of the routes are considered easy, with gentle elevation changes and well-defined paths. The 3.9 km Cedar of Lebanon at Shaw House loop from Newbury is an excellent choice for those new to hiking, offering a pleasant and manageable walk.
For those seeking a more moderate challenge, the 13.1 km Hermitage Woods – Eling Estate – Cedar of Lebanon at Shaw House loop from Newbury offers a longer distance and more varied terrain. Another moderate option is the 9.2 km Newbury Lock – Victoria Park loop from Newbury, which includes riverside sections.
Shaw Cum Donnington's trails are enjoyable year-round. Spring brings vibrant wildflowers to areas like Rack Marsh Nature Reserve, while autumn offers beautiful foliage in the ancient woodlands. Summer is ideal for longer days and riverside walks, and even winter can be picturesque, especially on crisp, clear days, though some paths might be muddy.
Most trails in the Shaw Cum Donnington area are dog-friendly, allowing you to enjoy the outdoors with your canine companion. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs on a lead, especially when passing through areas with livestock or sensitive wildlife habitats like Snelsmore Common. Always follow local signage regarding dog access.


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