Step into summer with Tewkesbury Borough’s top five walks
Posted on: 22 August 2025
With the seasons on the cusp of change, the borough is awash with vibrant colour, and Tewkesbury Borough Council is encouraging all residents and visitors to try out five of the borough’s best walks.
Councillor Richard Stanley, Leader of Tewkesbury Borough Council and Lead Member for Economic Development, said: “We are incredibly fortunate in Tewkesbury Borough to have such a diverse range of landscapes on our doorstep. From the rolling hills of the Cotswolds to tranquil riverside paths, we hope that this list offers something for every ability, blending stunning views, remarkable history, and glorious nature.
“We encourage everyone to get out and about to discover what makes this area so special.”
Here are five of the best walks to discover in the borough:
Winchcombe and Belas Knap – Start in the historic ‘Walkers are Welcome’ town of Winchcombe, the former capital of Mercia. This rewarding circular walk follows a stretch of the famous Cotswold Way national trail, ascending through picturesque woodland and countryside to the ancient Neolithic long barrow of Belas Knap. Dating back to around 3000 BC, this English Heritage site offers a fascinating glimpse into the distant past, complemented by magnificent views across the Sudeley Valley.
Cleeve Common – For unrivalled panoramic views, a walk on Cleeve Common is a must. As the highest point in both the Cotswolds and Gloucestershire, the summit provides a breathtaking 360-degree vista stretching to the Malvern Hills and, on a clear day, into Wales. The common itself is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), home to rare limestone grassland, unique wildflowers including several species of orchid, and free-roaming grazing sheep that help maintain this precious habitat.
The Tewkesbury Severn Ham – Just steps from Tewkesbury’s historic town centre lies the Severn Ham, a vast water meadow nestled between the River Severn and the Mill Avon. This flat, accessible walk is perfect for a gentle stroll with magnificent views of the iconic Tewkesbury Abbey. The Ham is one of the last remaining ancient Lammas meadows in the country and is a haven for wildlife, particularly wading birds, making it a paradise for nature lovers and photographers.
The Deerhurst loop – Combine a peaceful riverside walk with a journey into the Anglo-Saxon era in the village of Deerhurst. This gentle route takes in two of England’s most important Saxon buildings: the wonderfully preserved Odda’s Chapel and the historically rich St Mary’s Priory Church. After exploring these architectural treasures, the path leads along a tranquil stretch of the River Severn, offering a truly peaceful escape.
Dumbleton Hill circular – Beginning in the quintessential Cotswold village of Dumbleton, this delightful walk guides you through serene ancient woodland on a gentle ascent up Dumbleton Hill. Your reward at the top is a spectacular view across the Severn Vale towards the Malvern Hills. It’s a perfect summer walk, with the mature woodland canopy offering cool shaded cover to make the hike a bit more pleasant.
Afterwards, visitors can enjoy well-earned lunch or a drink at one of the nearby pubs or cafes.
For more walking inspiration across the borough, please visit the Visit Tewkesbury website.
