Hawkesbury Upton Walk
This pretty village in South Gloucestershire is surrounded by some beautiful rolling Cotswolds countryside. The village includes a picturesque village pond, quaint old stone cottages and a noteworthy ancient pub which dates back over 400 years.
This circular walk from the village visits one of the area's local highlights at Horton Court.
The walk starts in the village and follows public footpaths west to link up with the Cotswold Way. Follow the waymarked trail south and it will take you along Bath Lane and Highfield Lane to Horton Court. The Grade I listed manor house dates back to the 16th century and includes a 12th century Norman Tower. The house is surrounded by some lovely gardens and grounds which includes a pretty lake.
The route then heads north along a pleasant country lane to Borad Hill, Hawkesbury and Church Hill before heading above the village to visit the Somerset Monument. The monument commemorates Lord Robert Somerset and sits in an elevated position just to the north west of the settlement.
If you continue south along the Cotswold Way you could visit nearby Chipping Sodbury.
For a longer circular walk starting from Alderley to the monument and Horton Court see the video below.
Postcode
GL9 1AU - Please note: Postcode may be approximate for some rural locationsHawkesbury Upton Ordnance Survey Map - view and print off detailed OS map
Hawkesbury Upton Open Street Map - view and print off detailed map
Hawkesbury Upton OS Map - Mobile GPS OS Map with Location tracking
Hawkesbury Upton Open Street Map - Mobile GPS Map with Location tracking
Pubs/Cafes
Back in the village head to the The Beaufort Arms for some post walk rest and refreshment. The grade II listed inn dates back to 1602 and includes a charming interior with low-beamed ceilings and a collection of local memorabilia. They serve good quality food and also have a lovely garden area and a car park. You can find them on the High Street with postcode GL9 1AU for your sat navs.
Dog Walking
The country trails make for a fine dog walk and the Beaufort Arms mentioned above is also dog friendly.
Further Information and Other Local Ideas
At the southern end of the route you will come quite close to Badminton House and Estate. In the park there are two large ponds, several deer, attractive parkland and the 17th century Badminton House.
For more walking ideas in the area see the Cotswolds Walks page.