Top 9 Natural Monuments around Upton
Natural monuments around Upton offer a diverse landscape characterized by river valleys, ancient woodlands, and historic hills. The area features significant natural and historical sites, including prominent ridges and the River Thames. These locations provide opportunities for exploration and offer insights into the region's natural heritage and past.
Best natural monuments around Upton
- The most popular natural monument is Wittenham Clumps, a natural monument and viewpoint that provides extensive views over the River Thames and surrounding countryside. This site…
Last updated: June 17, 2026
Wittenham Clumps
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Scutchamer Knob
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Day's Lock
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Little Wittenham Wood
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Lord Wantage Monument
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Tips from the Community
Added to the collection: komoot.com/de-de/collection/3600632/-naturdenkmaeler-besondere-baeume-und-weitere-schaetze-der-natur
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Scutchamer Knob is an ancient Iron Age burial mound and historic landmark on the Ridgeway. Along my King Alfred’s Way bikepacking route, it was a memorable spot to pause before the final stretch to Reading. 📜 Once a Saxon meeting place, this hilltop offers panoramic views of the surrounding Berkshire downs—a perfect blend of history and landscape. 🚴♂️ A short climb rewards you with quiet reflection and wide-open skies.
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Day's Lock is a lock on the River Thames near Dorchester-on-Thames, Oxfordshire, England on the Dorchester side of the river. The pound lock was built in 1789 by the Thames Navigation Commissioner. The lock is across the river from the small village of Little Wittenham and is overlooked from the south by the hills of Wittenham Clumps, with a particularly good view from Round Hill. The weir runs straight across the river from the other side of the lock island. Day's Lock is the main gauging station for the measurement of the water flow in the River Thames.
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Little Wittenham Wood has been designated as both a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and a Special Area of Conservation (SAC), reflecting its international importance for wildlife. The nature reserve is particularly important for the endangered species, the Great Crested Newt. This shy amphibian uses the many ponds within the nature reserve to breed, but it spends the majority of time in the surrounding woodland. Tucking itself quietly away in safe and secure hidden spots, you have to search carefully to find them. Much easier to spot are the dragonflies and damselflies which hover around the ponds. If you wander down to the bird hide, at the river’s edge, you might be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of Kingfishers or Otters.
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Nice little lung opener first thing in morning. Entry to wooded area was permitted, has a few dens inside and plenty of benches externally, views to take in are beautiful. on a clear day can see for miles
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Located just across the river from the small town of Little Wittenham is this lock that provides glorious views up and down the River Thames.
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A memorial obelisk to Robert Loyd-Lindsay, Lord Wantage. Robert Lloyd-Lindsay, 1st Baron Wantage, was a soldier, politician and philanthropist. He co-founded the British National Society for Aid to the Sick and Wounded in War, which later became the British Red Cross. He died in 1901. Lady Wantage erected a monument to Lord Wantage in 1903. The monument stands on a Bronze Age round barrow adjacent to the Ridgeway at Betterton Down near Lockinge, Oxfordshire. https://historicengland.org.uk/images-books/photos/item/BAR03/01/428
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some family-friendly natural monuments to visit around Upton?
For a family-friendly outing, consider visiting Wittenham Clumps, which offers easy walking paths and stunning views. Day's Lock on the River Thames is also suitable for families, providing views of the river and the Wittenham Clumps. Additionally, Little Wittenham Wood is a great spot for nature exploration with well-maintained paths.
Are there easy walking trails at the natural monuments near Upton?
Yes, Wittenham Clumps offers easy walking for most people, with grassland paths that generally remain dry. The adjoining paths also provide pleasant walks in the woods and along the river. Little Wittenham Wood also features good paths suitable for leisurely strolls.
Where can I find parking when visiting the natural monuments around Upton?
When visiting Wittenham Clumps, you can find parking near Little Wittenham Church (approximately 10 cars) or at a larger main car park closer to the top of the hill (approximately 30 cars).
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see at the natural monuments in Upton?
Little Wittenham Wood is a Site of Special Scientific Interest and Special Area of Conservation, important for wildlife including the endangered Great Crested Newt, dragonflies, and damselflies. If you visit the bird hide, you might spot Kingfishers or Otters. The Wittenham Clumps area is also very rich in wildlife.
What historical significance do the natural monuments around Upton hold?
Wittenham Clumps has evidence of Bronze Age, Iron Age, and Roman occupation, with the curved ramparts of Castle Hill dating from the Iron Age. The Lord Wantage Monument is a memorial obelisk to Robert Loyd Lindsay, Lord Wantage, a distinguished soldier and co-founder of the British Red Cross, situated on a Bronze Age round barrow.
Are there opportunities for cycling near the natural monuments around Upton?
Yes, the area around Upton offers various cycling opportunities. You can find routes for touring bicycles, mountain bikes, and road cycling. For more details on routes like 'Bike loop from Chilton' or 'The Winnaway Path', explore the Cycling around Upton guide, the MTB Trails around Upton guide, or the Road Cycling Routes around Upton guide.
What are the best viewpoints among the natural monuments near Upton?
Wittenham Clumps offers breathtaking views over the River Thames and the surrounding countryside. The Lord Wantage Monument, situated high on the Ridgeway, also provides stunning views of the vale.
Can I visit a lock on the River Thames near Upton?
Yes, Day's Lock is located on the River Thames near Dorchester-on-Thames, across from Little Wittenham. It offers glorious views up and down the river and is overlooked by the Wittenham Clumps.
Are there any ancient burial sites or barrows to see?
Yes, the Lord Wantage Monument stands on a Bronze Age round barrow adjacent to the Ridgeway. Another site is Brightwell Barrow, though it is on private land and the public footpath goes around it.
What is the best time of year to visit the natural monuments around Upton?
The natural monuments around Upton can be enjoyed year-round. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, while summer offers longer daylight hours for exploration. Autumn provides beautiful foliage, and even winter can be picturesque, though some paths might be muddier. Always check local weather conditions before your visit.
What do visitors enjoy most about the natural monuments around Upton?
Visitors frequently appreciate the stunning panoramic views from elevated points like Wittenham Clumps. The easy walking paths, rich history, and abundant wildlife, particularly in areas like Little Wittenham Wood, are also highly valued by the komoot community.
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