Walking Holidays and Outdoor Adventures in Berkshire

River Valleys, Royal Parks, and Historic Towns

Where the Thames winds through market towns and royal estates, with trails linking countryside and heritage.

Berkshire, in the South East of England, combines river landscapes, ancient woodlands, and historic towns, making it a rewarding county for walking holidays and outdoor adventures. The Thames Path National Trail runs across Berkshire, passing Windsor, Reading, and Henley-on-Thames, while trails like the Ridgeway and Lambourn Valley Way connect rolling downland and chalk escarpments.

Walking here might mean exploring the royal landscapes of Windsor Great Park, strolling along the Thames at Henley or Marlow, or heading into the North Wessex Downs National Landscape. With excellent transport links and a blend of countryside and heritage, Berkshire is perfect for short breaks or longer self-guided walking holidays.

Trails Through Berkshire

Thames Path (Berkshire Section)
Follows the River Thames across the county, linking historic towns such as Reading, Henley-on-Thames, and Windsor.

The Ridgeway
An ancient route and National Trail crossing the North Wessex Downs, with sweeping chalk landscapes and archaeological sites.

Lambourn Valley Way
A 20-mile trail following the River Lambourn through chalk downland and racehorse country, connecting Newbury with the Ridgeway.

Windsor Great Park Walks
Gentle trails through historic royal parkland, with views of Windsor Castle and ancient oak trees.

Adventure Highlights

• Riverside walking on the Thames Path through historic towns
• Royal landscapes at Windsor Great Park and Windsor Castle
• Chalk downland walking in the North Wessex Downs National Landscape
• Market towns and walking hubs: Henley-on-Thames, Reading, and Newbury
• Accessible trails with excellent train links from London