Top Things to do in Oxfordshire
Top Hotels in Oxfordshire
- 1. George Street Hotel
- 2. The Holt Hotel
- 3. Malmaison Oxford Castle
- 4. voco Oxford Spires, an IHG Hotel
- 5. Courtyard by Marriott Oxford City Centre
- 6. The Randolph Hotel, by Graduate Hotels
- 7. voco Oxford Spires, an IHG Hotel
- 8. Jurys Inn Oxford
- 9. voco Oxford Thames, an IHG Hotel
- 10. Mercure Oxford Eastgate Hotel
Countries
What to do and see in Oxfordshire, England: The Best Hiking Trails
Discover the best top things to do in Oxfordshire, United Kingdom including Thames Path National Trail, Radley Lakes / Thrupp Lake Trail, Aston Rowant Discovery Trail, Thames Path, Treasure Trails.
Restaurants in Oxfordshire
1. Thames Path National Trail
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 72 reviews
A 184-mile path winding from the river's source in rural Gloucestershire to the Thames Barrier in London.
Reviewed By CarolinaTrekkers
My wife and I enjoy walking in Britain, with its well tended beauty and abundance of fascinating trails, not to mention the many who welcome and appreciate hikers. She saw that I was reading up on the Thames Path Trail and stated she would like to give it a try this summer, so we did. She liked the fact that it is essentially level, well marked, and historic, and that we could spend some time in London afterward. Since we would be spending time in London afterward, we planned to start at Staines Bridge, near historic Runnymede, and walk east to the source - a distance of about 135 miles. This would afford us the chance to focus on the countryside and perhaps do the urban part another time. It took us 9.5 days. Things we really liked: 1. Convenience. From Heathrow Airport, it was only about a 12 minute taxi ride to Staines Bridge. From there we promptly began our walk and wound up walking 14 miles that day, having been invigorated by the fresh air. The trail is well marked, and the latest Cicerone guide by Hatts, with extra map material, was plenty. 2. Flexibility. With a relative abundance of towns along the way, booking a room in advance was not required; finding a room was not difficult, with the exception of one small town which was having an event which caused us to walk five more miles one evening to the next (larger) town on the trail. We each brought only a small pack weighing 10-12 pounds, which we had carefully packed with extra clothes, sleeping gear, and everything else we would need. This approach, for example, also enabled us to stop early after one half-day walk in the delightful village of Sonning, to attend an unanticipated hilarious play at a dinner theatre near the bridge. We were also able to spend an extra day in Oxford and sample its many offerings. 3. History. All along the route were reminders of historic events, such as Runnymede's Magna Carta (love the 1400 year old yew tree) and Sir Walter Raleigh's conviction for treason, plus Roman, Viking, and other sites ... everywhere! And the ancient churches and WW2 pillboxes. 4. Beauty. The Thames is beautifully maintained and preserved, and is very tidy with the exception of a small area west of Reading (surprising). The river and stream side are absolutely beautiful, and we enjoyed seeing deer and red kites on a regular basis. 5. Lovely inns, pubs, and food. As for pubs, we really liked Marlow's Two Brewers, Oxford's Wig and Pen, Red Lion in Castle Eaton, and Thames Head (with Ben, its amazing proprietor) near the source. Lodging and food at the Beetle and Wedge in Moulsford will never be forgotten, and the Thai meal at the Jigsaw in Cricklade really shone. So many more. 6. Good health. Walking about 14 miles per day for this period of time got us into pretty good shape, and both relaxed and energized us. We both lost a few pounds and felt great. 7. People. Saving the best until last, it must be said that the interesting and helpful people along the route were the real highlight. At lodgings and inns, service was helpful and understanding when questions (even dumb ones) were asked. All along the trail we encountered fellow walkers both local and from around the world who were really fun to just stop and have a chat with, and we also picked up many helpful hints on where to stay, etc. from them. Plus, if you walk a substantial part of the Thames Path and notify the Thames Path officials of that fact, they will send you a nice certificate with your names on it. Giving the Thames Path a go is highly recommended ... you will be glad you did.
2. Radley Lakes / Thrupp Lake Trail
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 59 reviews
Reviewed By LyndaPC - Abingdon, United Kingdom
The trail goes round most of Thrupp Lake which is home to various water fowl, although dogs off leads are causing a problem. The walk is easy but not suitable for wheelchairs as there are tree roots and rough patches. Usually very peaceful there. Unfortunately yobs burnt down the Lily shaped shelter and the bird hide which were installed in 2009-10. They have not been replaced. Earth Trust hold various events there and Friends of Radley Lakes hold a tea party on End May Bank Holiday.
3. Aston Rowant Discovery Trail
4. Thames Path
5. Treasure Trails
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1 reviews
