It was my first walk of 2020. I was so excited for the new year and all these new walks I would be doing. That is without mentioning that of course two months later, the country would be going on a national lockdown and I would have to pause hiking for three months.
For the first walk of the year, one of my friends and I decided to go for an easy one. The decision was primarily based on the fact that we needed to take it easy after the Christmas break. And the choice was obvious as Henley is my favourite town in the UK (so far), so I cannot recommend that walk enough!
Disclaimer: London-based hiking groups may offer the same or similar walks around Henley-on-Thames. For more information, please check here.
Logistics for the Henley Circular Walk
- Distance: 10.5 miles (17km)
- Ascent: 240 m
- Walking estimate: 3 hours and a half to 4 hours
- Difficulty: Easy
- How to get there: Train from Paddington Station to Twyford and change at Twyford for a train to Henley-on-Thames. The journey takes around an hour, depending on the waiting time at Twyford Station
- What to pack: Comfortable clothing and footwear – I would recommend waterproof hiking boots as the trail is mainly on the river path so it can get extremely muddy depending on the weather alternatively pack a pair of gaiters with you, water (2 litres recommended)
Highlights of the Henley Circular Walk
- Henley-on-Thames
- Temple Island
- River Thames
- Hambleden village
- Great Woods
Henley Circular Walk
Henley
We start our walk in the pretty town of Henley-on-Thames, located 37 miles (59.54km) from London. The town was first mentioned in 1179 when King Henry II bought some lands there with the view of building it. The town is well known for its annual Henley Royal Regatta. The event first took place in 1839. In 1851, it was branded as “Royal” after Prince Albert became patron of the event.
We walk through the High Street and its lovely boutiques and cafes and arrive at the river. We cross over the Henley Bridge and walk alongside the Thames Path in the direction of Hambleden.
Related Content: Marlow to Henley via the Thames Path
We pass by Temple Island, an island in the middle of the Thames. The graceful temple at the front of the island was commissioned by the landowner as a fishing lodge. It was designed by the architect James Wyatt and built in 1771. The island was bought by the Regatta in 1987. It is now used as a wedding venue.
Hambleden
We continue along the river path until we get to Hambleden Mill. We then cross the 61 m wide footbridge and make our way to Hambleden village.
This 1000-year-old village has approximately 1400 inhabitants. It counts many old buildings such as a 14th Century church, called St Virgin Mary church. Interesting fact: in the churchyard, you find the grave of famous bookseller, WH Smith.
Great Woods and end of the walk
After roaming around the historic streets of Hambleden, we get back on our adventures. We take the trail heading off through Great Woods and its tall pines.
Finally, we walk back to Henley following the Oxfordshire Way. This 68 miles (109.43km) long trail from Bourton-on-Water to Henley-on-Thames takes four to six days to complete.
We arrive back at Henley where we stop for food and drinks at the local Wetherspoon. Bon appetit!
If you are looking for more easy walks, check these posts
Kingston Loop: A Perfect Sunny Day Walk
Orpington to Knockholt: An Easy Sunday Walk
Epping Forest: A Walk Accessible By Tube
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