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Metropolitan Walkers Group

The London-based hiking group for people in their 20s - 30s.

Join the Ramblers and enjoy

  • unlimited free access to 50,000 Ramblers group walks
  • a library jam-packed with thousands of tried-and-tested routes
  • a welcome pack teeming with top tips plus our Walk magazine
  • exclusive discounts from our partners
  • knowing your support is opening up more places to walk and helping more people discover the joy of walking

Overview

This is a pretty part of the Thames Path with pleasant river views. This section has the steepest climb on the Thames Path which takes you onto a high walk in woodlands with views of the river below. At Whitchurch there is a toll bridge, one of two remaining on the Thames, but walkers cross for free. We will pass through Pangbourne where the Wind In The Willows author Kenneth Grahame lived. After Pangbourne, on the opposite bank we will see Hardwick House, a previous owner was the inspiration for Toad in Wind In The Willows and the house is likely to have been the inspiration for Toad Hall. The path diverts through suburban streets before passing through fields and into Reading.

Bring a packed lunch. Pub stop at end at the Siren brewery bar.

Terrain: Towpath, meadows, woods. The Thames Path can be waterlogged and muddy in places so waterproof footwear is advised.

Travel: Take 9:50 from London Paddington, change at Reading (arr. 10:13 dep. 10:24), arr. Goring & Streatley 10:36. Alternatively take 9:38 from London Paddington, arr. Goring & Streatley 10:36. Buy return to Goring & Streatley.

Saturday, 2 November 2024
Start time:
10:40 am
Estimated finish time:
4:30 pm
Difficulty:
Moderate
Distance:
17.7km / 11.0mi
Ascent:
N/A
Type:
linear

Features

  • Accessible by public transport

Starting point

Grid reference:
SU 60215 80698
Nearest postcode:
RG8 0EL
what3words:
cuff.unhelpful.perfected
Start time:
10:40 am

Goring & Streatley station

Finishing point

Grid reference:
SU 71504 73836
Nearest postcode:
RG1 1LY
what3words:
gentle.become.goods
Estimated finish time:
4:30 pm

Reading station

Join the Ramblers and enjoy

  • unlimited free access to 50,000 Ramblers group walks
  • a library jam-packed with thousands of tried-and-tested routes
  • a welcome pack teeming with top tips plus our Walk magazine
  • exclusive discounts from our partners
  • knowing your support is opening up more places to walk and helping more people discover the joy of walking