The best walks and hikes around Kidlington
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Hikes around Kidlington explore the gentle landscapes of the Cherwell Valley. The region is characterized by riverside paths along the River Cherwell and the Oxford Canal, as well as routes through woodlands and open meadows. The terrain is mostly flat, making the walking routes in Kidlington suitable for a wide range of fitness levels.
Best hiking trails around Kidlington
- The most popular hiking route is the Hampton Gay Manor Ruins – Thrupp Community Forest loop from Kidlington, a 4.6 mile (7.4 km) trail that takes about 1 hour 50 minutes to complete. This easy route features the ruins of Hampton Gay Manor and paths through the Thrupp Community Forest.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is the Hampton Gay Manor Ruins – The Boat Inn loop from Kidlington, a moderate 5.9 mile (9.5 km) path. The trail combines historical points of interest with sections along the Oxford Canal.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the The Boat Inn – Thrupp Community Forest loop from Kidlington, a 4.0 mile (6.5 km) trail leading through woodland and along the canal, often completed in about 1 hour 40 minutes.
- Hiking around Kidlington is defined by its serene riverside footpaths, historic canal towpaths, and trails through community woodlands. The network of routes offers accessible options for both short, leisurely walks and longer circular hikes.
- The routes in Kidlington are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.7 stars from more than 480 reviews. More than 5,000 hikers have used komoot to explore Kidlington's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 23, 2026
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Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
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Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(2)
15
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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9.11km
02:21
50m
50m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Great pub , good food Great drinks
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Great ride can be quite busy at week ends
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saw a family of deer in the woodland. got a bit lost at one point but managed to find a path again!
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This church, which is dedicated to the Holy Cross (Latin "Santa Croce"), takes its patronage from the cross on which Jesus Christ died. The veneration of the Holy Cross goes back in large part to Saint Helena, who was the mother of Emperor Constantine the Great (who recognized Christianity as a religion after his victory at the "Milvian Bridge" in front of Rome and ended the long period of persecution with the "Edict of Toleration" of Milan in 312). In the early fourth century, she made a pilgrimage to the Holy Land (Israel / Palestine) and brought numerous relics back to Europe, including the "True Cross" on which Jesus Christ was crucified. Helena is therefore often depicted with a cross as an attribute. The church celebrates the feast of the discovery, public presentation and veneration of the Holy Cross - called the "Exaltation of the Cross" - on September 14th.
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Young deciduous woodland planted by the Forestry Commission in 1990s along the River Cherwell between Thrupp and Kidlington.
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Church. Medieval; rebuilt and west tower added in 1831 by William Turner; minor restoration by J. Buckeridge, 1869. Squared and coursed limestone with ashlar dressings; stone-coped gabled stone slate roof. Nave, chancel and west tower. Gothic Revival style. One-bay chancel has offset corner buttresses, 3-light Decorated-style east window and 2-light side windows. Two-bay south side of nave has hood mould over chamfered pointed-arched blocked doorway, and label moulds over 2-light ogee-headed cinquefoiled windows; to north side are similar windows flanking early C14 reset Decorated porch, which has hood mould with rosettes and unusually primitive head corbels over hollow-chamfered pointed-arched doorway with rosettes; Cl9 pointed-arched inner doorway. Three-stage west tower has hood moulds over cinquefoiled windows and battlemented parapet with corner gargoyles. Interior: arch-braced roof throughout, with moulded beams, wind braces and king posts, set on plain corbels adorned with arms of past vicars and lords of the manor. Chancel has mid C19 Minton tile floor, and early C14 reset cinquefoiled tomb recess. Double-chamfered chancel arch has traceried Decorated-style panels flanking brattished Perpendicular-style traceried wood screen made in 1896. Nave has wood traceried pulpit set on stone base, C18 parish chest, C11 tub font reset on late C19 piers and C19 west door. Late C19 stained glass throughout. Memorials: in chancel are wall tablets to John Rathbone, d.1613, set in coloured moulded architrave, Stephen Pomfrett, d.1713, with carved stall and hourglass set above roundel , and Gothic-style memorial to William Turner. Also in chancel is medieval child's coffin. Ledger stone in nave to Edward Egleton, d,1722. Pictures of church before restoration show that chancel had north chapel (whence tomb recess was moved) and that present C14 porch lay to south. William Turner was an Oxford watercolourist and his uncle William Turner of The Manor (q.v.) provided the money for restoration. (Buildings of England: Oxfordshire: pp757-8; Information from VCH National Monuments Record; Bodleian Library, Topographical Drawings)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there many circular walks starting from Kidlington?
Yes, the area is well-known for its variety of circular walks. These routes often combine paths along the River Cherwell and the Oxford Canal with trails through local woodlands and meadows. For a selection of officially documented routes, you can check the local council's page on Circular Walks.
What are the best family-friendly walks in Kidlington?
The Kidlington Zoo Trails are specifically designed for families. These are a series of five easy, themed walking trails ranging from 1.5km to 8.5km. They feature pavement markings, signposts, and fun elements like bug hotels and balancing logs to keep children engaged. You can find more details on the Kidlington Zoo Trails page.
Can I take my dog on the trails around Kidlington?
Most of the countryside paths around Kidlington are great for dog walking, especially the open meadows and woodland trails. However, always be mindful of local signage, particularly near farmland where livestock may be present. It's recommended to keep dogs on a lead along canal towpaths and near wildlife habitats.
Are there any pub walks in the area?
Many routes pass by or finish near traditional pubs. The Thrupp Community Forest – The Boat Inn loop from Kidlington is a pleasant 6.4 km walk that conveniently includes a stop at a canalside pub, making it a popular choice for a rewarding break.
What kind of scenery can I expect on hikes around Kidlington?
The landscape is defined by the gentle Cherwell Valley. Expect serene riverside paths along the River Cherwell and the historic Oxford Canal, where you can watch narrowboats. The trails also lead through peaceful woodlands, which cover nearly a quarter of the region, and open meadows perfect for spotting wildlife like kingfishers.
How difficult are the hiking trails in Kidlington?
The majority of trails are rated as easy or moderate. The terrain is mostly flat with very little elevation gain, making it accessible for most fitness levels. Out of more than 20 available routes, only one is considered difficult, so there are plenty of options for a relaxed day out.
Are there any trails that feature historical sites?
Yes, several walks incorporate local history. The Hampton Gay Manor Ruins – Thrupp Community Forest loop from Oxford Airport is an easy 6.6 km route that takes you past the romantic ruins of a 16th-century manor house, offering a glimpse into the area's past.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the trails in Kidlington?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Reviewers often praise the peaceful atmosphere, the scenic combination of canal and riverside paths, and the well-maintained, easy-to-follow trails that are perfect for a leisurely walk.
Can I get to the trailheads using public transport?
Yes, Kidlington is well-served by bus routes from Oxford and surrounding towns, making it easy to start your hike without a car. Many circular routes begin directly from the village centre, within walking distance of bus stops.
Are there any good spots for a walk near the Oxford Canal?
The Oxford Canal towpath offers excellent, flat walking. A particularly scenic section runs from Kidlington towards the hamlet of Thrupp. The The Boat Inn – Thrupp Community Forest loop from Kidlington is a great option that incorporates a lovely stretch of the canal.
Are there any longer hikes available for a full day out?
While most routes are shorter, you can find some longer options. The Hampton Gay Manor Ruins – The Boat Inn loop from Kidlington is a moderate hike of around 9.5 km that combines historical sites with paths along the Oxford Canal, taking around 2.5 hours to complete.
What are some popular natural places to visit while hiking in Kidlington?
Hikers often enjoy exploring Thrupp Community Forest, a beautiful and quiet natural area. For a more expansive day out, the vast parkland of Blenheim Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a short drive away and offers extensive grounds for walking.
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