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Where England’s greatest river begins as a trickle in the Cotswolds, winding through meadows, locks, and timeless towns.
The Thames Path (Cotswolds Section) covers the western half of the National Trail, running 89 miles (143 km) from the river’s source near Kemble in Gloucestershire to the city of Oxford. It offers a quieter, more rural walking holiday experience than the London and South East stretches, with gentle riverside paths, historic market towns, and the honey-stone villages of the Cotswolds.
Walking here might mean tracing the Thames from its symbolic source stone, strolling through meadows near Cricklade, or exploring riverside towns like Lechlade and Abingdon. With its mix of history, countryside, and accessible terrain, this section of the Thames Path is a favourite for relaxed self-guided adventures.
Thames Head to Cricklade
The trail begins quietly, with a stone marker denoting the river’s source in Gloucestershire. From here, the river slowly gathers strength, winding through meadows and farmland toward the Saxon town of Cricklade.
Cricklade to Lechlade
This stage passes charming villages and medieval churches before reaching Lechlade, a historic market town with classic Cotswold architecture and riverside pubs.
Lechlade to Abingdon
The Thames broadens, linking locks, weirs, and water meadows. Highlights include the spire of Radcot Bridge, the oldest surviving crossing of the Thames, and the riverside stretches through Eynsham and Abingdon.
Into Oxford
The final miles bring walkers into Oxford, where the river flows past college meadows, historic bridges, and punts gliding through the city — a fitting end to the rural Cotswold stretch of the Thames Path.
Accommodation is plentiful in riverside towns like Cricklade, Lechlade, and Abingdon, with Oxford offering a wealth of places to stay. Pubs and B&Bs line the trail, while camping options are available for those seeking a more rustic trip.
Many walkers divide this section into relaxed day stages, with luggage transfer services available. Linking with the South East section at Oxford makes it possible to continue seamlessly toward London.
