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Stonehouse Walking Festival celebrates the wide range of scenic walks possible around the Stonehouse area, also showcasing some walks having added specialised interest. The Festival offers free, guided group walks, including: level field and woodland footpaths, gently rolling fields, scenic view, canal, river and rail trails, walks for restricted mobility, family fun walk, dusk nature walk, history walk, tree walks, picnics, pub and cafe stops.
Vineyards, railway, canal & Cotswold Way
Festival Launch Walk
Time & Location
09 Sept, 18:00 – 20:00
2 miles, PCP High St, Stonehouse GL10 2NG, UK
About The Walk
Our launch walk will take us towards the railway station, continuing along a footpath parallel to the railway line. On the way we will be passing by one of the Woodchester Valley Wines vineyards where we will pick up the Cotswold Way, going over the railway footbridge crossing to the Ebley Road and down onto the canal at Ryeford. From here we will take the towpath back to Stonehouse as far as Bridgend, before returning via Regent Street to the car park. Please note that the steps (down) at the railway crossing are steep. No dogs please.
To celebrate the launch of the Festival there will be a chance to sample a Woodchester Valley award-winning wine made partly from Stonehouse grapes or enjoy a soft drink.
A walk around the town’s green spaces
Family Fun Walk
Time & Location
10 Sept, 10:30 – 12:30
2 miles, APT: 1, Park Parade, Stonehouse GL10 2DB, UK
About The Walk
This is an accessible walk for buggies and prams, around the town’s green spaces. We will start at APT, at the junction of Park Road & Elm Road. Adults to supervise their own children while using play equipment at each green space.
The walk will end with a picnic.
Assistance dogs on leads welcome.
Bring your own lunch which can be left at APT during the walk.
Free drinks provided.
Toilets available at start/end of walk.
Walk Leaders: APT Volunteers
A ramble through farmlands with great views
Standish to Cotswold Way
Time & Location
10 Sept, 14:00 – 17:30
6 miles, PCP, High Street, Stonehouse GL10, UK
About The Walk
A very scenic 6 mile circular walk on footpaths and across fields in the direction of Oxlynch and back along the Cotswold Way.
Can you guess how many stiles of all types we will climb over? There are quite a few, and some boardwalks over streams to traverse too. There are some moderate ascents and descents, but the views are worth it!
Some stretches could be muddy.
Bring a picnic and something to sit on.
High Street
Stonehouse History Walk 1
Time & Location
11 Sept, 11:00 – 12:30
1.5 miles, PCP: High St, Stonehouse GL10 2NG, UK
About The Walk
The walk will take us along the upper High Street, to the Globe Inn and Green. We will return along the High Street and Queen’s Road, to Burdett Road railway station. We will then walk along Bath Road to end at the car park. During the walk the walk leaders will explain the history behind various buildings and landmarks and show historic photographs. No dogs please.
Sunday lunch can be booked at La Campagna or The Woolpack, both on the High Street.
Walk Leaders: Vicki Walker & Shirley Dicker from the Stonehouse History Group
Landscapes, flora and fauna in Doverow wood
Dusk to Dark Nature Walk 1
Time & Location
11 Sept, 18:30 – 12 Sept, 19:30
2 miles, PCP: High St, Stonehouse GL10 2NG, UK
About The Walk
A nature walk exploring wildlife, as well as talking about the formation and history of the Doverow Hill landscape. We will walk up Doverow Hill as dusk approaches to look for, and chat about, the flora and fauna around the hill. No dogs please.
Bring a torch, warm clothes, and a drink.
Those who want can gather in a pub after the walk.
This walk is repeated on September 15th.
Walk Leaders: Rachel & Stephen Armstrong
Booking required with Rachel Armstrong on 07443 470054.
We will walk on mainly small paths and sometimes the Cotswold Way up to Coaley Peak enjoying the views on the way up and, of course, at the top!
Walk to Coaley Peak
Time & Location
12 Sept, 10:00 – 14:00
8 miles, PCP: High St, Stonehouse GL10 2NG, UK
About The Walk
The paths are uneven in places and there will be several stiles to get over on the walk. The way back down is less demanding, mainly on minor paths through Leonard Stanley. There are lovely woodlands and views to enjoy.
No dogs please.
The only toilet facilities are at the start and end of the walk.
Bring food and drink as there are no places to buy refreshments.
We will stop for a break at the top.
Wear suitable footwear and clothing - be prepared for changeable weather.
Part 1 of 2 walks extending the Stonehouse boundaries
Pushing the Boundaries 1
Time & Location
12 Sept, 14:00 – 16:30
4.5 miles, Community Centre, Stonehouse GL10 2NS, UK
About The Walk
After a successful walk around the town boundary in 2021, the route has been extended and split into two sections. This walk extends the route to the north and east of Stonehouse, as far as Moreton Hill and the corner of Standish Woods. We will return along the Cotswold Way through Far Westrip and the Vineyard.
No dogs please.
May be muddy if wet.
Walk Leader: Mike Davis
Part 2 of 2 walks extending Stonehouse boundaries
Pushing the Boundaries 2
Time & Location
13 Sept, 10:00 – 12:30
4.5 miles, Community Centre, Stonehouse GL10 2NS, UK
About The Walk
After a successful walk around the town boundary in 2021, the route has been extended and split into two sections. This walk extends the route to the west of Stonehouse. Going out via Church Path and the newt ponds, we will head for Oldends Farm (‘End’ number 1) and then take the bridle path past Nastend Farm to Nupend, then Westend (‘Ends’ 2, 3 & 4). We will cut back to Chipman’s Platt roundabout to cross the A419 and head down to Churchend and Millend (‘Ends’ 5 & 6), before taking one of the available paths back to the Ocean.
No dogs please.
May be muddy if wet.
A walk up to the top of Doverow and around the woods for views over Stonehouse and beyond to the Severn valley, descending to town and then 2nd half walking down to the canal in time for sunset over the Ocean.
Doverow to the Ocean
Time & Location
13 Sept, 15:00 – 14 Sept, 18:00
4 miles, PCP: High St, Stonehouse GL10 2NG, UK
About The Walk
A leisurely, dog-friendly walk through Meadow Field and up Doverow Hill to explore the woods, stopping frequently to catch our breath and take photos at viewpoints. We will descend past the vineyard and return to town, taking a break either in the Old Chapel Garden to admire its award-winning blooms, or in Laburnam Park.
At 17:30h we will continue to St Cyr’s church via the vicar’s path. Crossing the canal as the sun is setting over the Ocean, we return via the towpath – under the Nutshell Bridge to the former Ship Inn site, and up Regent Street to the Woolpack Inn.
Time & Location
14 Sept, 09:30 – 15 Sept, 17:00
12 miles, PCP: High St, Stonehouse GL10 2NG, UK
About The Walk
We set off in the direction of Bridgend to the banks of the Frome and then westwards towards Churchend. From there we continue to follow the Frome across country towards Fromebridge and then down to Saul Marina on the Sharpness Canal. The route then follows the Canal south to Fretherne Bridge where we cut up into Frampton and the largest village green in England. We will enjoy a good lunch stop here with pubs and a shop available. At the end of the village, we cut across the gravel pits eastwards Claypits and Eastington. After a bit of unavoidable road walking, we cut across country to Cress Green and back towards Stonehouse via the Sewage Works.
Most of the walking is flat and level.
A gentle, accessible, wheelchair friendly walk
Fair Shares Accessible Walk
Time & Location
14 Sept, 10:30 – 11:30
0.5 or 0.75 miles, All Pulling Together, Stonehouse GL10 2DB, UK
About The Walk
This walk is available for those with mobility difficulties or needing mobility aids, and those living with dementia. Family and carers are welcome. Well controlled dogs on leads are allowed. Trained volunteers will be on hand for support. At any point if you feel you need to end the walk or return to the APT offices, we will help you get back. This is a very gentle walk to enjoy the nature and wildlife available within a short distance of Stonehouse.
Two routes are offered: 0.5 miles or 0.75 miles.
The walk will end with a picnic at APT: bring your own food.
Free drinks available at APT.
Walk the RHS judges' route.
Stonehouse in Bloom walk
Time & Location
14 Sept, 14:00 – 15 Sept, 16:00
2 miles, PCP, High St, Stonehouse GL10 2NG, UK
About The Walk
A walk around Stonehouse visiting and discussing the projects undertaken by the Stonehouse in Bloom group of volunteers.
In 2021, Stonehouse in Bloom was awarded a Gold in the RHS Heart of England in Bloom competition and gained the highest award of ‘Outstanding’ in the 'It’s your Neighbourhood category' for the Old Chapel Garden.
This year Stonehouse is representing our region on the national stage in Britain in Bloom and while we wait for the judges’ decision - due in October - we invite you to join us in walking the judging route.
An easy walk but there are steps up to the station.
Join us for our regular Thursday morning walk.
Gentle Canal Walk
Time & Location
15 Sept, 09:30 – 11:30
2 miles, PCP, High St, Stonehouse GL10 2NG, UK
About The Walk
A gentle stroll for those not up to walking at a great pace. The actual length & time of this walk depends on the pace at which we walk. Generally we walk for 45 – 60 minutes and there are various options for the length of the walk depending on the ability of the group.
No dogs please.
Not suitable for wheelchairs.
Coffee afterwards at Wynn’s for those who wish to join us.
Walk Leader: Kim Menzies to come soon
Time & Location
15 Sept, 14:00 – 16:00
3 miles, PCP: High St, Stonehouse GL10 2NG, UK
About The Walk
From the car park we will proceed down the High Street and Elm Road then Church Lane, to Stonehouse Court. We will then visit St. Cyr’s church with the opportunity to go up the tower. The walk then takes us on to the Midland Railway viaduct and back to the church where refreshments will be available (provided by the Mothers Union). Afterwards we walk directly back up Church Lane to the car park. During the walk the walk leaders will explain the history behind various buildings and landmarks and show historic photographs.
No dogs please.
Toilets available at car park and church.
Time & Location
15 Sept, 18:30 – 19:30
2 miles, PCP: High St, Stonehouse GL10 2NG, UK
About The Walk
A nature walk exploring wildlife, as well as talking about the formation and history of the Doverow Hill landscape. We will walk up Doverow Hill as dusk approaches to look for, and chat about, the flora and fauna around the hill.
No dogs please.
Bring a torch, warm clothes, and a drink.
Those who want can gather in a pub after the walk.
This walk is a repeat of that on September 11th.
Woods, fields, a canal & a community orchard
Eastington Walk
Time & Location
16 Sept, 10:00 – 13:00
5 miles, PCP: High St, Stonehouse GL10 2NG, UK
About The Walk
This is a flat walk along tracks, field paths and some minor roads but there are some stiles and rough surfaces. We will cross the canal at Ocean Bridge and follow a rough track and field path to 5-acre wood, before cutting across fields to Millend. We will walk past the mill and round to Eastington Church before detouring to Coneygree Orchard (one of Eastington’s Community Orchards) for a refreshment break. We will return to Stonehouse along the canal towpath.
No dogs please.
Bring your own drink and snack.
We will be walking through fields with cows.
The history & importance of trees in Stonehouse
Trees of Stonehouse 1
Time & Location
16 Sept, 14:00 – 17:30
4 miles, PCP High St, Stonehouse GL10 2NG, UK
About The Walk
The walk will start by exploring some of the interesting trees around the centre of Stonehouse, discussing the social, environmental and economic benefits that urban trees can deliver. Then we will go through the fields behind Stonehouse and into Doverow woods, looking at trees in a woodland setting and in the wider environmental context.
About two-thirds of the walk will be on the flat; one-third will be up hills and over the fields.
This walk will be repeated on September 18th.
Walk Leader: John Parker of the Arboricultural Association
Selsley, Minchinhampton & Rodborough
Three Commons and a Canal
Time & Location
17 Sept, 09:30
11 miles, PCP: High St, Stonehouse GL10 2NG, UK
About The Walk
Heading towards Kings Stanley we pick up the Cotswold Way and follow it up to the top of our first common (Selsley) via Penn Wood. We then cut across towards Dingle Wood and drop down into South Woodchester, across the A46 and climb steeply up to St Chloe. We walk across our second common (Minchinhampton) to our third common (Rodborough) and break for lunch at the Fort. Cutting downhill via The Butts and Lightpill, we reach the old Nailsworth railway and turn west. At Cainscross we cut across the fields to the canal towpath and follow the canal back into Stonehouse.
No dogs please.
There are two steep and arduous climbs on this route, but you are rewarded with magnificent view
Exploring the progress reopening the canal
Bridge Over the Missing Mile
Time & Location
17 Sept, 11:00 – 18 Sept, 14:00
6 miles, PCP: High St, Stonehouse GL10 2NG, UK
About The Walk
A circular walk exploring the Stroudwater canal and well-known Stonehouse landmarks, under the new Jubilee bridge at the Ocean, all the way to Westfield Bridge where the canal currently dries up. This bridge was saved in 1969 by a woman who stood on it for a day to prevent workmen from blowing it up. It remains to this day in a field waiting for a missing mile of canal to be reconnected.
Stopping for a break in Coneygree Community orchard, Eastington we return via fields and alongside the river Frome, past a weir, viaduct and beyond to Bridgend.
Refreshments should be available at Falafel Pod.
Pick your own fruit in the orchard.
Sat, 17 Sept | Cotswold Boatmobility
Freedom on Water
Accessible boat trip from Ryeford to the Ocean
Freedom on Water
Time & Location
17 Sept, 11:00 – 12:30
Cotswold Boatmobility, Garden Centre, Stonehouse GL10 2JN, UK
About The Walk
This is an alternative ‘walk’: for those who would like a boat trip. We will go on the canal as far as the new railway bridge at the Ocean and then return to Ryeford. The boat is wheelchair and mobility aid accessible. Families and carers are all welcome. There are two types of boat available – your choice. We make the best of all weathers.
Additional trips are available Mondays and Wednesdays at 11:00 and 13:00 through Boatmobility.
Disabled parking is available.
Walk Leader: Jan Thomas of Cotswold Boatmobility
The history & importance of trees in Stonehouse
Trees of Stonehouse 2 (repeat)
Time & Location
18 Sept, 10:00 – 13:30
4 miles, PCP High St, Stonehouse GL10 2NG, UK
About The Walk
The walk will start by exploring some of the interesting trees around the centre of Stonehouse, discussing the social, environmental and economic benefits that urban trees can deliver. Then we will go through the fields behind Stonehouse and into Doverow woods, looking at trees in a woodland setting and in the wider environmental context.
About two-thirds of the walk will be on the flat; one-third will be up hills and over the fields.
This walk is a repeat of that on September 16th.
Walk Leader: John Parker of the Arboricultural Association
Festival finale
Canal Walk
Time & Location
18 Sept, 18:00 – 19 Sept, 19:30
3 miles, PCP: High St, Stonehouse GL10 2NG, UK
About The Walk
The festival will conclude with an evening walk including one of the most scenic parts of the Stroudwater canal. The walk will be flat except for steep steps at a railway bridge crossing. We will walk along the edge of the railway line to join the Cotswold Way, drop down to the canal at Ryeford Road and return through St Cyr’s churchyard.
After the walk we will gather in a pub to mark the end of the festival.
Walk Leader: Carol Kambites
