This gorgeous part of the Cotswold escarpement is the perfect place for a family walk – stunning views across the stroud valley and the breacon beacons, thetr are plenty of criss cross trails for shorter or more adventorous walks across hilltop forts and lush ancient woodlands. Our kids loved this one – a nice moderate hike to wear them out, lots of birds and nature around.
Great views and not to technical (some steep sections that were a little exposed but our 6 year old managed fine.)
Locals tip – visit in April to see the prolific bluebells of Standish Woods.
Need to know
Parking: Parking is at the top of a steep single track paved road, the National trust car park, GL6 6PP. Free for members otherwise payment by card. People also park for free if spaces safely alongside the road.
Acessibility: Easy and relatively flat short walk to the topography marker with expansive panoramic views. This grassy trail would be fine for a robust walking or all terrain pushchair. Other trails around the beacon are on dirt and rocky paths, steep in some sections and best for confident walkers.
There is a map in the car park showing lots of different route options.
Facilities: No toilets. Nearest cafe/ pub or shop is Haresfield Village. There is a mobile coffee van that regulary serves the National trust car park at Haresfield called Off Road Beans. Click here for their website for opening hours.
Step by Step
Leave the car park through the Left hand gate (heading for a loop around Standish Woods along the Cotswold way)
OR;
Leave the car park through the gate straight ahead, past the National Trust info board and map, and walk to the topograhy marker, for expansive panoramic views, simply superb!
From here you can also join a section of the cotswold way which takes you along and down the valley, still along the tops, in a loop to the Haresfield beacon marker and back. (this is what we did).
All of the walks on the hilltop are well signposted and well trodden.
***
Cotswold Little Explorers 
Leave a comment