My Top 10
Quiet Countryside Walks in West Berkshire and Oxfordshire for You and Your Dog
Let’s face
it – not every dog wants to play chase with every other dog they meet, and not
every owner wants a walk that feels like the M25 in rush hour. Sometimes you
just want to escape into nature with your dog, soak up some quiet, and enjoy a
moment of calm. Especially if you’re working on training or your dog finds the
hustle and bustle a bit much.
These are
some of the best dog-friendly walks in West Berkshire and Oxfordshire, ideal
for reactive dogs, young pups, or anyone who just enjoys a quiet countryside
wander. I’ve included where to park and what makes each walk worth the trip.
Whether you’ve got a young pup still learning the ropes, a reactive dog who
needs space, or you just fancy a proper countryside ramble – I’ve got you
covered.
If your
dog’s recall is a work in progress or you just want a bit more confidence
before heading somewhere new, we’ve got recall workshops and 1-2-1 support that
can help. But if you're ready for an adventure – let's dive in.
So if
you’ve exhausted your local rec, are bored of Bug’s Bottom or Clayfield, or
just fancy a weekend adventure – read on!
1. Bottle and Glass – Woodland walk (South
Oxfordshire)
Parking:
https://maps.app.goo.gl/f2uyFhiKaix9vCa36
Why I love it:
The walk begins and ends at a charming countryside pub!
They have ample parking, poo bins and plenty of footpaths to explore. The
terrain can be a little bit challenging and it does get muddy in the winter,
but it's my go-to for a nice long walk with a stop at the pub to warm up at the
end.
2. Shiplake Thames Path (South Oxfordshire)
Parking:
https://maps.app.goo.gl/B4HjuDHbfgdw43dn9
Why I love it:
If your dog loves to swim – this is my ultimate walk! You
need to watch out for boats though. There are two walks from this parking spot
– heading right towards the river (signposted Public Footpath) takes you past
Shiplake College. I recommend keeping dogs on lead here – their rowing club is
based along the path, and retriever-types may find the stray socks and shoes
hard to resist! Luckily it’s only about 100 metres before you’re out of the
temptation zone.
Another
option is to continue straight (signposted as Restricted Byway) to the end of
Mill Lane and through the gate. The footpath takes you across the field to the
river. Check for livestock, as there are sometimes cows or sheep in the field.
Once by the river, turn left and you’ll find a sandy ‘beach’ (okay, it’s about
5 metres wide, but still perfect for a paddle!).
3. Mapledurham Estate (South Oxfordshire)
Parking:
https://maps.app.goo.gl/7RVNBgZTmhBbepQm7
Why I love it:
If you’re up for a longer walk, this is a great place to
explore. Public footpaths are clearly signposted, but an Ordnance Survey map
can come in handy – the estate is vast, and not all fields have public rights
of way. Worth the effort for the views and the variety.
4. Ufton Park (West Berkshire)
Parking:
https://maps.app.goo.gl/RoB3RwxLxooZqkAt7
Why I love it:
We call it the Magical Woods! Parking is in a small
lay-by (please never block gates), and public footpaths head off on both sides
of the road. There are a few ponds, so be mindful of blue-green algae in
summer. Lots of gravelled paths mean it’s usually less muddy than other spots.
5. Benyon’s Enclosure (West Berkshire)
Parking:
https://maps.app.goo.gl/Ec6f4W2QPuqh5A6z9
Why I love it:
Gorgeous views and well-marked footpaths. There’s a big
pond – again, check for algae in summer. Occasionally there are sheep in
adjoining fields, so always check before letting dogs off-lead. Nice and shady,
so a good choice for warm days.
6. Wokefield Common (West Berkshire)
Parking:
https://maps.app.goo.gl/Wra2qNHMy9V26FmC7
Why I love it:
Easy parking and beautiful woodland trails you can get
lost in (in a good way). This was my sanctuary during multiple lockdowns – it
absolutely kept me sane! There’s a signposted circular walk that’s about a mile
and pushchair-friendly, starting at the car park. Venture further and there are
some steep hills too.
7. Greenham Common (West Berkshire)
Parking:
https://maps.app.goo.gl/ufYdHWHQUsv55PaE9
Why I love it:
Free lay-by parking (or a café car park on the other
side: https://maps.app.goo.gl/D5WGoGr4r6y6tbmL6). Mostly gravel paths, so even
if the dogs get muddy, you’ll stay fairly clean. There are a few good spots for
a paddle, though they can dry up in summer. It gets busier here, so I prefer it
for a relaxed family stroll rather than a training walk.
8. Mortimer Spring (West Berkshire)
Parking:
https://maps.app.goo.gl/mCLvNS7J6DQi5A1r8
Why I love it:
One of my absolute favourite walks when I can’t ‘people’
anymore! Great visibility and several paths to choose from. There’s a spring
that runs through it, so dogs can paddle and drink along the way. Bonus:
there’s a hidden tree swing somewhere on this walk – let me know if you find
it! Also fab for blackberry picking in late summer.
9. Crowsley Park (South Oxfordshire)
Parking:
https://maps.app.goo.gl/68EEA7KHRQ7eEjbL7
Why I love it:
Small lay-by for parking, and a few steps to climb to get
into the park. Great visibility and semi-secure – most of it is fenced (or at
least used to be!), so it feels fairly safe for dogs with decent recall. Quiet
and peaceful with lovely views.
10. Bucklebury Common (West Berkshire)
Parking:
https://maps.app.goo.gl/Dzv8Qp1f8rT73Ug8A
Why I love it:
Shady and cool on warm days, with several ponds dotted
around (always check for algae in the summer). There’s a mix of woodland, open
space and varied terrain – it’s great for scentwork games and letting your dog
explore at their own pace.
Want to make the most of dog walks in
Berkshire and Oxfordshire?
These
routes are brilliant for calm, connection-based walks – perfect for practising
recall, loose-lead walking, or just letting your dog decompress. If you’re
looking for more support, structure or just want to learn how to get the best
out of your dog on walks, we offer 1-2-1 sessions in either our training field
or on your regular walks!
And if you
try any of the walks above – I’d love to see! Tag us in your photos or stories.
#dogfriendlywalks
#westberkshiredogs #oxfordshiredogwalks #quietdogwalks #dogsbedogs
#reactivedogs #gundogtraining #dogtrainerberkshire
