Article written by,
Olivia Davies
Every month Olivia Davies will take a walk around Oxfordshire with her dog and write an article about the stroll, including features and local establishments that can offer refreshments & food. The article is to encourage you to visit the area and explore your own activities unlike other step by step guides.
Walk around Wittenham Clumps
Searching for a fresh afternoon stroll representing the best aspects of Oxfordshire?
Explore the fascinating and infinite terrain of Wittenham Clumps in Little Wittenham, Didcot. Apart of an abundance of beautiful circular walks in Oxfordshire with pubs. An area featuring a pair of wooded hills surrounded by acres of countryside within the Thames Valley, leading to a various opportunities to extend your walk.
A wonderful way to begin your visit is at the bottom of the hill next to the Pronounced Earth Trust Sign.
The stately Earth Trust logo is also located on the gate as you enter the reserve. Having been founded in 1967, the Earth Trust, Little Wittenham Charity aims to give the substantial community the pass to engage with our environment.
As well as this, have aided in discovering the vast history of the hills and magnificent woodland within it.
Wittenham Clumps is the oldest recognised planted hilltop beeches in England,
their growth dating back to 300
While venturing up the shapely landmark, enjoy the incredible dimension within the vast scenery. This trail will lead to one of 3 benches placed at the peak of the climb. In which an opportunity to sit and view the dogs and families exploring the boundless range is presented. Thereafter, wonder around the edge of the woodland to admire the beautiful but ancient trees protected by the Earth Trust Charity. Particularly the beauty of the poem tree. A fragment of history sacred to the landmark. In recent times, the poem tree fell due to treacherous weather. But in its place is a fascinating tribute. In which it educates the viewers on the poet Joseph Tubb and his relation to the cherished tree with a poem carved within it.
Once arriving around the other side of the hills, you will come across the cattle of the land. Where they peacefully graze. Unbothered by their surroundings. While continuing to capture the panoramic views of Oxfordshire, take the chance to stroll around both hills and continue to walk in a southwest direction until another gate becomes present, exhibiting three striking bridges that take you over the River Thames. This presents the opportunity for an extended walk ending in the beautiful village of Little Wittenham and Dorchester.
An exploration of Wittenham Clumps is suitable for all conditions. Whether that be a wintery walk to the sheltered village, or as a summer picnic with the blooming flowers and shade provided by the historic woodland. Wittenham Clumps poses as one of the many fantastic days out in Oxfordshire.
Little Wittenham
Top Rated Walks Within The Surrounding Area
Featuring the delightful Village of Little Wittenham on the southern bank of the River Thames with only 220 habitats. A graceful part of Oxford’s Riverside walks. South of the village are the hills of Wittenham Clumps and to the south-east is Little Wittenham Wood bordering on the river. From Round Hill, one of the Clumps, there is a view of the village to the north. Including the elegant and historic St Peter’s Church, displaying the original 14th century original tower. Thereafter, stop for a refreshing drink and a bite to eat at The Plough Inn. A polished 17th Century Pub and B&B.
Thereafter, stop for a refreshing drink and a bite to eat at
The Plough Inn.
A polished 17th Century Pub and B&B.
St Peter’s Church
A walk around Wittenham Clumps
A Stroll around Dorchester on Thames
A Stroll Through Dorchester on Thames
Dorchester on Thames is a village and civil parish in Oxfordshire, about 3 miles northwest of Wallingford and 8 miles southeast of Oxford. The town is a few hundred yards from confluence of the River Thames and River Thame.
Another beautifully scenic route to venture would be the walk from Wittenham Clumps to Dorchester Village.
Walk across the Days lock, a bridge with history dating back to 1789, to pass over the River Thames. This will take you to the footpath guided by a detailed sign post, fencing and a hedge line through the Dorchester Fields.
“Not long after, the quaint village will become present”
The Dorchester Abbey is unmissable in all it’s glory. Being at the heart of the community, it features a charming garden beside the river to admire the architecture of the Church. The building begun in the 12th century, replacing two earlier Saxon cathedrals. The Norman building expanded in the 13th century and was grown in size in the early 14th century when the space around the altar (Chancel), including the choir and the sanctuary was added with its wonderful window sculpted with the Tree of Jesse, its stained glass and its exquisite sedilia.
The great tower, rebuilt in 1602, but incorporating a 14th century spiral staircase, rises above a lush landscape of willows and flowering water meadows.
There are a plethora charming opportunities to stop for lunch. Lily’s Tea Room is notorious for its beautifully cooked breakfasts and lunches. As well as the lovely baked goods and the range of hot drinks.
Another popular conclusion to the pleasant stroll would be arriving at the White Hart Pub and Hotel. A charming 16th century inn, paired with delightfully cooked pub food by the windows looking out to the village.
Nearby Pubs and Restaurants
The are three main pubs in Dorchester on Thames;
To find other local pubs try our Pubs in Oxfordshire page
