Walks around Reading

These linear walks between railway stations are more varied than than the average circular walk as the countryside can change considerably. The start of the walks can all be reached within an hour from London and Reading and there is usually a pub or two along the way.

Thames Valley Circular Walk

A 125 mile circular walk in and around the Thames Valley. It may be walked in sections or in one go with overnight stops. On some stages accommodation is limited and public transport is non-existant. Plan ahead and make sure you have a bed for the night before you set out.

Usually there is a pub every few miles but not always. Shops are few and far between in the countryside and may have restricted opening hours.

Because some sections of the circular walk are a long way from public transport taxi firm contacts have been included on the "transport" page in case of emergencies.

General

Check the train operator website (see "transport") for "train running" in formation.There are sometimes engineering works, especially on a Sunday.

The suggested Ordnance Survey Maps are designed for walkers and are easy to read. Footpaths and bridle-ways are shown by green dots and dashes. The maps now show the new "freedom to roam" areas, shaded yellow with an orange border.

A compass may be useful, if only to help you leave the station in the right direction!

A4 plastic sleeves, available from stationers and larger supermarkets, are ideal for protecting and filing the walk sheets.

Wear appropriate footwear as some paths may be rough or muddy. The "weather" link gives a five-day forecast of the weather in the Reading area.

Although the walks have not been planned with young families in mind and are not suitable for wheelchair use, many of the paths along the waterways have sections that are wheelchair friendly and are suitable for family groups.
See the appropriate websites on the "links" page for more information.