D'arcy Dalton Way Walk Map
This long distance walking trail runs through the Oxfordshire countryside from Wormleighton Reservoir to Wayland's Smithy near Ashbury.
The walk is named after Col. W. P. D'Arcy Dalton, a local man who worked hard to preserve footpaths and rights of way in the county. The trail takes you through some beautiful Warwickshire and Oxfordshire countryside with a section through the Cotswolds to enjoy as well. On the way you will pass through a number of delightful rural villages, visit some fascinating ancient sites and enjoy some wonderful views over the area from the high points.
The walk starts from Wormleighton Reservoir just to the east of the village of Fenny Compton in Warwickshire. There's a nice circular walk you can do here using the trail from Claydon.
You then head south to Farnborough where you could pay a visit to the National Trust's Farnborough Hall. The historic Grade I listed hall dates from the 18th century and is surrounded by attractive parkland with lakes and beautiful landscaped gardens.
You continue to Hornton, Hook Norton and Great Rollright where you will pass another route highlight at the ancient Rollright Stones. Here you will find a fascinating group of Neolithic and Bronze Age megalithic monuments with some fine countryside views.
The route continues in the beautiful Cotswolds, passing Churchill, Sarsden and Shipton Under Wychwood where there's some pleasant trails through the wildlife rich Foxholes Nature Reserve.
You continue through the Cotswolds to Great Barrington, Filkins and Radcot where the route links up with the Thames Path National Trail.
The next stages visits Great Coxwell, Coleshill and Longcot before coming to the finish point at Wayland's Smithy.
Darcy Dalton Way Ordnance Survey Map 
- view and print off detailed OS map
Darcy Dalton Way Open Street Map 
- view and print off detailed map
Darcy Dalton Way OS Map 
- Mobile GPS OS Map with Location tracking
Darcy Dalton Way Open Street Map 
- Mobile GPS Map with Location tracking
Pubs/Cafes
In Milton under Wychwood you could enjoy a pit stop at the The Hare. The fine country pub serves high quality dishes and includes a sunny, sheltered terrace. They are dog friendly in the bar area.
Further Information and Other Local Ideas
At various points along the way the trail links with several other long distance footpaths including the Oxford Canal Walk, the Oxfordshire Way, the Thames Path and The Ridgeway.
Cycle Routes and Walking Routes Nearby
Photos
Farnborough Hall South
The Darcy Dalton Way footpath crosses the road in Westwell
D'Arcy Dalton Way. As you traverse the path, you are treated to panoramic views of the Oxfordshire countryside, including glimpses of the Cotswolds and the Thames Valley, while encountering notable landmarks such as ancient earthworks, medieval churches, and traditional farmhouses that echo the region’s storied past. The way is named in honour of Colonel W.P. d’Arcy Dalton, a passionate advocate for preserving local rights of way, and his legacy is evident in the thoughtfully marked and maintained trail that invites reflection on both heritage and the enduring beauty of rural England.
Sibford Gower. Along its entire length, the d’Arcy Dalton Way delights nature enthusiasts with a diverse palette of flora and fauna. The route passes through ancient woodlands where native species such as oak, beech, and ash provide a dappled canopy that shelters a variety of birdlife, from cheerful songbirds to the occasional soaring raptor. Open fields and hedgerows burst into colourful displays of wildflowers in the spring and summer, while autumn brings a rich tapestry of changing leaves. Hikers may also spot small mammals like hedgehogs and foxes, and in the more pastoral stretches, grazing livestock and even deer add to the bucolic charm. Furthermore, wetlands and quiet watercourses along the trail attract species such as kingfishers and herons, making the walk not only a cultural and historical journey but also a vibrant celebration of England’s natural heritage.
Shenington with Alkerton
A country view near Hornton.
Odstone Hill from D'Arcy Dalton Way, Ashbury
Waylands Smithy at the end of the walk.