Minchinhampton Common
This large area of common land near Nailsworth is criss-crossed with miles of nice footpaths. The common is also in an elevated position so there are great views of the surrounding Cotswold hills, countryside and villages. You'll reach a height of well over 600ft on the edge of the Cotswold Escarpment. On a clear day you can even see across the Severn Vale into Wales. It's also great for flora and fauna with skylarks and various orchids to look out for.
This walk starts from the little village of Amberley on the western side of the common. From here you can pick up the footpaths leading towards Bownham, Burleigh and Box.
To extend your walking in the area you can head to the nearby Rodborough Common. The common is located just to the north and consists of nearly 300 acres of attractive grassland, scrub and woodland.
Also nearby is Selsley Common. It's located just to the west and has more nice paths and rare flora and fauna to discover.
The common is located very close to the popular town of Stroud where you can enjoy a nice waterside walk along the Stroudwater Canal.
Postcode
GL5 5AF - Please note: Postcode may be approximate for some rural locationsMinchinhampton Common Ordnance Survey Map 
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Minchinhampton Common Open Street Map 
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Minchinhampton Common OS Map 
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Minchinhampton Common Open Street Map 
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Pubs/Cafes
The Old Fleece on the western side of Rodborough Common is a good choice for some post walk refreshment. The pub is set in a 250 year-old former coaching inn and is walker friendly. There's also a nice outdoor terrace where you can relax during the warmer months. You can find it on Rooksmoor Hill at postcode GL5 5NB.
Also consider the Bell Inn in nearby Selsley. It's a pub of some note dating from the 16th Century and also grade two listed. The pub can now boast listings in The Good Food Guide, and The Good Pub Guide as well as 2AA rosettes for their food. In the summer months you can sit outside and enjoy fine views of the surrounding countryside. In the winter there's roaring log burners to warm you up after your chilly walk!
Dog Walking
The large open space of the common is popular with dog walkers so you'll probably see other owners on your visit. There is quite a lot of cattle around so it's best to keep them under fairly close control. The Old Fleece pub mentioned above is also dog friendly.
Further Information and Other Local Ideas
The National Trust's Woodchester Park is located just to the west of the common. There's miles of footpaths here taking you to woodland, parkland, gardens and two large lakes.
For more walking ideas in the area see the Cotswolds Walks page.
Cycle Routes and Walking Routes Nearby
Photos
Cattle on the common in the summer of 2008. The common is protected by cattle grids at the main access points.
Part of the road network, Minchinhampton Common. The authorities have provided numerous parking areas making the common easily accessible to all. There is a 40 mph speed limit across the common to minimize the risk of motorists crashing into cattle.
Blossoms in the spring of 2006
Nice views across the common's fields to the surrounding hills
Market House in the town of Minchinhampton. Built in 1698 for wool.
Longfords Mills, Minchinhampton. This was owned by William Playne and specialised in baize for snooker tables. Seen during conversion to dwellings. A water turbine and Belliss steam engine survive here.