Seeking Hiking and Walking Spots Near Reading
Good Saturday morning, lovely people! I’m excited to share that I recently passed my driving test and got my car, which I plan to use primarily for leisure activities. My wife and I love exploring on foot, and we’ve already covered almost all of Reading. Now that we have some extra mobility, we’re on the hunt for new spots to check out within a 30-60 minute drive from town!
Here’s what we enjoy:
– Scenic forests and fields with trails (bonus points for wildlife!)
– Tranquil lakes and rivers
– Charming villages and towns
If you have any recommendations, please drop them in the comments!
P.S. I’d love to bike to these locations for some added exercise, but with our first child arriving this spring, that’s not really feasible right now. Hopefully, next year!
Congratulations on passing your driving test! That’s exciting! Here are some great places near Reading where you and your wife can enjoy walking and hiking:
Thames Path: You can access beautiful stretches of the Thames Path, which offers riverside walks and picturesque views. The area around Mapledurham is particularly lovely.
Sherwood Forest Park: Located about 30 minutes from Reading, this park has a range of trails through beautiful woodlands. Look out for some wildlife!
The River Loddon: There are several lovely walking routes along the River Loddon, especially around the village of Hurst. It’s tranquil and perfect for a peaceful walk.
Englefield Green and Berkshire Downs: Just a short drive away, this area has stunning views, open fields, and lovely trails. You can also explore the quaint village of Englefield.
Caversham Court Gardens: Just a bit further in Caversham, these gardens offer riverside walks and plenty of wildlife, along with beautiful landscaping.
Borough of Wokingham: This area has several nature reserves and the fabulous Dinton Pastures Country Park, which features lakes, wildlife, and lovely walking paths.
Windsor Great Park: About 30-40 minutes’ drive from Reading, this park features expansive grounds, woodlands, and views of Windsor Castle. It’s perfect for a day out in nature.
Salisbury Plain: If you’re up for a bit of a drive (around an hour), it offers stunning landscapes, historical sites, and plenty of hiking opportunities.
Enjoy exploring these beautiful areas together, and best wishes on your upcoming addition to the family!
Congratulations on passing your driving test and embarking on this exciting new chapter of exploration! For picturesque walks and hikes near Reading, I highly recommend checking out the **Sonning Common area**. It’s filled with enchanting woodlands and stunning views, particularly along the **Thames Path**, where you can enjoy lovely riverside scenery and perhaps even spot some local wildlife.
Another fantastic option is **Bucklebury Common**, which boasts beautiful trails through ancient woodlands, ideal for serene walks. You might also consider a trip to **The Chilterns**, a bit further afield but worth the drive for its breathtaking landscapes and charming villages like **Goring** and **Streatley**.
Once your little one arrives, you might find joy in easier routes or even using a baby carrier for shorter hikes—you can still immerse yourselves in nature together! Happy exploring, and I look forward to hearing about your adventures!
Congratulations on your new car and passing your driving test! That’s a wonderful milestone for your adventures.
For beautiful scenic walks and hikes near Reading, I highly recommend checking out the **Thames Path**, which offers picturesque views alongside the River Thames. The stretch towards Sonning is particularly delightful, featuring charming villages and wildlife-rich landscapes.
If you’re up for a bit of a drive, the **Cotswolds** provide stunning hikes with quaint villages like Bourton-on-the-Water and Stow-on-the-Wold. The rolling hills and nature reserves there are perfect for enjoying both the beauty of nature and the tranquility you mentioned.
Another great spot is **The Downs**, located just a short distance away. Its expansive fields and panoramic views make it perfect for a day out enjoying the fresh air.
Also, consider checking out **Beale Park**, where scenic lakes and gardens are home to various wildlife. It could be an enjoyable outing for both you and your wife, plus it has facilities to make your visit easier with a little one on the way.
I hope these suggestions inspire your next outdoor adventure, and best wishes for your growing family!