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Where to Walk: Gloucester City & Forest of Dean

Posted by KRoss@maximusuk.co.ukforest of dean walks, National Walking Month, Painswick beacon walk, Westgate bridge Gloucester

3 people walking in the hills

If you’re an avid reader of the BZ Blog, you’ll already know that it’s National Walking Month and we’re encouraging you to Walk This May! We’re sharing our favourite places to stroll around our BeeZee homelands, starting with our newest place of residence; Gloucestershire…

City centre of gloucester showing the waterways and boats
City Centre Walks

This walk takes you on a natural history journey through geological time in Gloucester to Alney Island and the Severn Estuary with its amazing wildlife, wetlands and birds.

  • Norman Walk

approx 2.5 miles, this circular walk begins at the Cathedral and takes you through ancient Gloucester, following in the footsteps of William the Conqueror

  • Gloucester Waterways Walk

approx 3 miles – You might not think of Gloucester as being coastal, but the tidal waters of the River Severn flow here. This is a circular route along footpaths close to Gloucester City Centre. There are eight stopping points highlighted on the walk including Gloucester Lock, Westgate Bridge, Over Bridge and Alney Island Nature Reserve

  • Gloucester Waterside Walks

A series of four waterside walks ranging from 1.5 miles to 5.5 miles, starting within a walk or bus ride of Gloucester city centre. These embrace the River Severn or the Gloucester Sharpness Canal, an area that offers great opportunities for the quiet enjoyment of the countryside. Available from Gloucester TIC

  • Gloucester Sharpness Canal Walk

approx 16 miles (there are also shorter options) – Take the footpath from Gloucester Docks down the Gloucester Sharpness Canal. The former towpath runs the whole length of the canal to Sharpness and can be accessed at each of the 16 bridges. Enjoy the boats and nature along this flat walk for all abilities..

 

 

 

A view of Painswick Beacon, including woods and hills
Walks outside of city centre
  • Painswick Beacon

Picking up part of the Cotswold Way, this route takes youup the picturesque Paradise Valley and along to the Painswick Beacon. Enjoy wrap around views of the Severn Vale and the Forest of Dean and even the Welsh Mountains too!

  • Robinswood Hill

With 250 acres to explore, Robinswood Hill is the perfect spot to wistfully wander along the marked trails or alternatively, weave through the orchard. Head up to the summit for fabulous views to the south as well as a chance to see the Malvern Hills, Black Mountains and beyond.

Mallards Pike Lake on a clear bright day
Forest of Dean
  • Beechenhurst- Sculpture trail

Covered in a canopy of towering trees, the Sculpture Trail in the Forest of Dean promises a stunning stroll all year round.Starting from Beechenhurst, walkers can enjoy the famous four-and-a-half-mile trail, looking out for the impressive spectacles along the way. Meanwhile for children, there’s also the much-loved Highway Rat Trail which is buggy-friendly on a dry day and is perfect for keeping kiddies entertained.

  • Symonds Yat Rock

With a host of trails to choose from, Symonds Yat is a great place to start a stroll and spot some impressive wildlife. Head up high to the ancient hill fort to look out for falcons, grab a bite to eat at the Log Cabin Café or, head down to the river for a gentle stroll along the glorious banks of the River Wye.

  • Mallards Pike Lake

Breathtakingly beautiful all year round, Mallards Pike offers up two glorious lakes and a looping path to leisurely stroll around.

Particularly special in the autumn, this leafy walk is covered with towering trees and also boasts shady grass areas, which are perfect for a barbecue on warmer days

  • Clearwell Caves

Discover the Wonder of Under. Visit the Forest of Dean and see beneath the Forest floor. Natural caves mined for ochre pigment and iron ore for over 4,500 years. Nine caverns with exciting displays. Lamp Room Cafe serving delicious cakes, coffees and snacks. Great Gift Shop; picnic and children’s play area (can also be visited separately from the Caves)

  • Bathurst Park

Lovely park, very safe two separate areas; one nice garden lily pond relaxing area, the other side a children’s area and activity area

  • Lydney Harbour

Lydney Harbour is a small marina on the River Severn with great views over the estuary. Great for a scenic walk on a fine day.

Let us know if you go on any of these walks! We’d love to see your photos or videos, tag us on social media!

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