The best walks and hikes around Moulsford
4.6
(1266)
8,108
hikers
11
hikes
Hikes around Moulsford explore the South Oxfordshire countryside, situated where the Thames Path and The Ridgeway national trails intersect. The landscape is characterized by riverside paths along the Thames, rolling chalk downland, and sections of woodland. The region offers mostly gentle gradients, with modest climbs onto nearby hills providing wider views of the surrounding area.
Best hiking trails around Moulsford
- The most popular hiking route is Streatley Gardens – Goring Mill loop from Moulsford, a 5.5 mile (8.9 km)…
Last updated: May 8, 2026
4.4
(14)
102
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
54
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.3
(3)
11
hikers
7.75km
02:07
120m
120m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
12
hikers
7.17km
02:03
160m
160m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(2)
9
hikers
8.35km
02:12
70m
70m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Rivers and canals crisscross the country, as they were – especially in the early days of industrialisation – a very essential part of the transport infrastructure. After all, the factories needed the delivery of raw materials in previously unknown quantities, and the finished goods then had to find their way to the traders. Many of the canals originate from this era. Later, the railways and, later still, trucks took over the task of transporting goods. However, when building the artificial waterways and making the rivers navigable, it had to be taken into account that differences in altitude always had to be overcome, and so locks are often lined up along the canals and rivers – at more or less large intervals, depending on the local situation. Shipping could only be made possible with their help.
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A church was recorded here in the the Domesday Book (1086) but the oldest surviving part of the current church is the 15th century west tower. In 1864–65, the main body of the church was almost entirely rebuilt by architect Charles Buckeridge in a neo-Gothic style. During this work, original 13th-century flint and stone were reused.
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The Church of St Thomas of Canterbury in Goring-on-Thames, Oxfordshire, as origins dating back to around 1100. The church is known for its Norman architecture.
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Despite the fact that it's a smart restaurant, the staff are equally welcoming to wet and muddy hikers!
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A typical, small English place on the Thames Path, which is beautiful to look at with its many small details and where you can take a short break.
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Nice place for a picnic on the grass overlooking the valley about half way around the walk after climbing the hill.
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This huge railway bridge crosses the River Thames here. It is locally known as "Four Arches"... because of its four arches. There are two parallel bridges here, in fact, so the bridge is actually two bridges. The original bridge was built between 1838 and 1840 for the main route of the Great Western Railway. The second, parallel, bridge was added in the 1890s. It's a very imposing and impressive structure, particularly if you are just immediately below on the river bank path here.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are there around Moulsford?
There are over 500 hiking routes to explore around Moulsford, ranging from easy riverside strolls along the Thames to more challenging climbs onto the chalk downlands of the Chilterns and North Wessex Downs.
What do other hikers say about the trails around Moulsford?
The area is highly regarded by the komoot community, with thousands of hikers exploring the trails. Reviewers often praise the beautiful contrast between the serene Thames Path and the ancient Ridgeway, as well as the panoramic views from the chalk hills.
Are there any easy, family-friendly walks near Moulsford?
Yes, the sections of the Thames Path around Moulsford are generally flat and ideal for a family outing. A gentle stroll along the river from Moulsford towards Goring and Streatley offers lovely scenery, including views of Brunel's impressive railway bridge, without any significant climbs.
Can I bring my dog on the trails?
Most trails around Moulsford are dog-friendly, especially the open paths along the river and The Ridgeway. However, you will be walking through farmland and nature reserves like the Moulsford Downs, so be prepared to keep your dog on a lead, particularly during lambing season or near livestock.
Are there any circular walks available?
Moulsford is an excellent starting point for circular hikes. A popular option is the South Stoke Village – Streatley Gardens loop from Moulsford, which combines riverside walking with paths through picturesque villages. Many routes utilize sections of both the Thames Path and The Ridgeway to create varied loops.
Where can I find a good pub on a walking route?
Many walks in the area feature a traditional pub stop. The View Towards Streatley – The Bell Inn, Aldworth loop from Aldworth is a moderate hike that conveniently includes a stop at The Bell Inn, a historic pub popular with walkers exploring The Ridgeway.
How can I get to Moulsford using public transport?
The nearest train station is in Goring & Streatley, which is on the main line between London Paddington and Oxford. From the station, it's a pleasant walk of about 2 miles (3 km) along the Thames Path to reach Moulsford. Several local bus routes also serve the surrounding villages, providing access to various trailheads.
Where is the best place to park for a walk?
For walks starting in Moulsford itself, on-street parking is limited. A common strategy is to park in the larger public car parks in the nearby villages of Goring or Streatley and begin your walk from there. This gives you easy access to both the Thames Path and the hills on either side of the river.
What is the best time of year to hike around Moulsford?
You can enjoy hiking here year-round. Spring is wonderful for wildflowers, especially bluebells in the woodlands and the rare Loddon lily in Cholsey Marsh. Summer offers long days for extended hikes, while autumn provides beautiful colours along the river and in the woods. Winter walks can be crisp and clear, but be aware that riverside paths can become muddy after heavy rain.
Which trail offers the best views?
For panoramic views over the Thames Valley, the Viewpoint on Lough Down – The Holies Grasslands loop from Streatley is an excellent choice. This route involves a climb up onto the chalk grasslands of Lough Down, rewarding you with expansive vistas of the river and the surrounding countryside.
What are some popular places to hike to near Moulsford?
Hikers in the area often explore several key destinations:
- Wittenham Clumps: A highly-regarded local landmark offering a short but steep climb to a hilltop with iconic trees and fantastic panoramic views.
- Chilterns National Landscape: A vast area of protected countryside providing countless trails through rolling hills and beech woodlands.
- North Wessex Downs National Landscape: This tranquil, hilly area includes parts of The Ridgeway and is a popular destination for walkers seeking sweeping, scenic views.
Can I access The Ridgeway National Trail from Moulsford?
Yes, The Ridgeway intersects with the Thames Path near Goring and Streatley, just a short walk from Moulsford. You can easily join this ancient track to explore the chalk ridges of the North Wessex Downs, heading west towards landmarks like Lowbury Hill.
Are there any long-distance hiking options?
Moulsford is perfectly situated on two national trails. You can follow the Thames Path north towards Wallingford and Oxford or south towards Reading. Alternatively, you can tackle a significant portion of The Ridgeway. For a challenging day hike, consider the Streatley Gardens – Viewpoint on Lough Down loop from Moulsford, a 9.8-mile (15.8 km) route that combines both riverside and ridgeline scenery.
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