Thames Path Cotswolds Section

Walk the Thames Path through the Cotswolds

The Thames Path Cotswolds Section follows the upper River Thames for 54 miles from its source near Kemble to Oxford. Beginning in Gloucestershire within the Cotswolds National Landscape, the route follows the young river through meadows, farmland and small settlements before continuing east towards the historic city of Oxford.

Near Kemble, the Thames begins as a small watercourse in the countryside close to Thames Head. The trail follows the developing river through the southern Cotswolds towards Cricklade, with much of the early route characterised by open fields, riverside meadows and quiet rural landscapes.

Beyond Cricklade, the river gradually becomes more established as it continues towards Lechlade. The market town is one of the principal destinations on this section and marks a noticeable change in the character of the Thames as the river becomes navigable and locks, bridges and boats become increasingly prominent.

From Lechlade, the Thames Path continues east through predominantly rural countryside, following long stretches of riverbank between small settlements, locks and riverside communities. The landscape remains open and low-lying, with the river providing a continuous line through farmland and meadows.

Approaching Oxford, the surroundings gradually become more developed while stretches of meadow and open riverside landscape remain part of the route. The trail enters the city beside the Thames, completing the transition from the river's rural source to one of its major historic settlements.

Destinations including Kemble, Cricklade, Lechlade and Oxford provide useful bases for exploring the upper Thames, as well as stopping points for walkers completing this section of the Thames Path.

Overview

Distance: 54 miles / 87 km
Typical duration: 4–5 walking days
Difficulty: Easy-going
Start: Source of the River Thames, near Kemble, Gloucestershire
Finish: Oxford
Terrain: Riverside paths, grassy meadows, farmland, towpaths and quiet lanes
Waymarking: National Trail acorn symbols throughout

EXPLORE THE THAMES PATH

Continue Exploring the Thames Path

Explore the complete 183-mile Thames Path from the source near Kemble to the Thames Barrier at Woolwich, or discover another section of the trail.

Thames Path

Follow the complete 183-mile Thames Path from the source of the River Thames near Kemble to the Thames Barrier in London.

Thames Path South East Section

Continue along the Thames for 100 miles from Oxford through the Thames Valley and historic riverside towns to Richmond.

Thames Path London Section

Follow the final 29 miles from Richmond through central London and Greenwich to the Thames Barrier at Woolwich.