The Best Walks Around Windsor And The Thames

One of the best things about living in Berkshire is having some fantastic walking routes right on your doorstep.

Whether you’re looking for a gentle riverside stroll, a longer countryside ramble or simply somewhere to stretch your legs on a Sunday afternoon, Windsor and the surrounding Thames Valley offer some of the most picturesque walks in the South East.

With historic landmarks, beautiful river views, ancient woodland and plenty of opportunities to stop for a coffee or a pub lunch, there’s something for every level of walker.

Here are some of the best walks around Windsor and the Thames.

The Windsor Riverside Walk

If you’re visiting Windsor for the first time, this is the obvious place to start.

Beginning near Windsor Bridge, this walk follows the River Thames through some of the town’s most attractive scenery.

Along the way you’ll see:

Windsor Castle
Riverside cafés
Pleasure boats
Swans and wildlife
Views across to Eton

It’s an easy walk suitable for all ages and perfect for a relaxed afternoon.

Distance: As long or short as you like.

Best for: Sightseeing and river views.

Windsor To Runnymede

This is one of the area’s classic Thames walks.

Following the Thames Path south from Windsor, you’ll pass through peaceful riverside scenery before reaching Runnymede, the historic site where Magna Carta was sealed in 1215.

Highlights include:

Open riverside meadows
Historic monuments
Beautiful river traffic
Excellent picnic spots

Distance: Around 6 miles each way.

Best for: History lovers and longer walks.

The Long Walk

Arguably Windsor’s most famous walking route.

Stretching from Windsor Castle to the Copper Horse statue at Snow Hill, the Long Walk offers one of the most recognisable views in Britain.

The tree-lined avenue runs through Windsor Great Park and provides spectacular views in every season.

The route is especially impressive:

In autumn colours
On crisp winter mornings
During spring blossom

Distance: Approximately 5 miles return.

Best for: Iconic Windsor views.

Windsor Great Park And Virginia Water

If you’re looking for a longer countryside walk, Windsor Great Park is hard to beat.

The Virginia Water circuit combines woodland, lakeside scenery and some fascinating landmarks.

Along the route you’ll find:

Virginia Water Lake
The Cascade
Totem Pole
Roman Ruins
Deer roaming the park

It’s one of the most varied walks anywhere in Berkshire.

Distance: Approximately 4.5 miles around the lake.

Best for: Nature and photography.

Dorney Court And The Thames Path

Just a few miles from Windsor, Dorney offers beautiful riverside walking without the crowds.

The Thames Path here is peaceful and scenic, passing:

Historic riverside homes
Open countryside
Rowing routes
Traditional pubs

It’s particularly popular with walkers seeking a quieter experience.

Distance: Flexible routes available.

Best for: Escaping the crowds.

Cookham To Marlow Along The Thames

A little further upstream but well worth the trip.

This walk follows one of the prettiest stretches of the Thames through quintessential English countryside.

Expect:

Riverside meadows
Historic villages
Narrowboats
Beautiful river views

You can even stop for lunch in either Cookham or Marlow before heading back.

Distance: Around 5 miles one way.

Best for: Classic Thames Valley scenery.

The Jubilee River Walk

Built as a flood relief channel, the Jubilee River has become one of the area’s most popular walking and cycling routes.

The flat paths make it ideal for:

Families
Casual walkers
Cyclists
Dog owners

Wildlife is abundant, particularly during spring and summer.

Distance: Various route options.

Best for: Easy walking.

Bray To Maidenhead Riverside Walk

This gentle Thames-side route links two of Berkshire’s most attractive riverside locations.

Along the way you’ll pass:

Historic riverside pubs
Boat traffic
Scenic riverbanks
Open countryside

It’s particularly lovely on a warm summer evening.

Distance: Around 3 miles each way.

Best for: Combining walking with a pub lunch.

Eton And Brocas Meadows

One of the most photographed views of Windsor Castle can be found from Brocas Meadows in Eton.

This short walk offers:

Stunning castle views
Riverside scenery
Historic buildings
Plenty of places to sit and watch the world go by

Ideal if you’re short on time.

Distance: Short and easy.

Best for: Photography and sightseeing.

Black Potts To Datchet

A hidden gem for local walkers.

Following the Thames between Windsor and Datchet, this route offers peaceful riverside scenery and excellent opportunities to spot wildlife.

You’ll often see:

Swans
Herons
Rowers
Narrowboats

Distance: Approximately 3 to 4 miles.

Best for: A quiet riverside escape.

Why Windsor Is Perfect For Walking

Windsor offers a unique combination of:

Royal history
River scenery
Open countryside
Woodland
Wildlife
Great pubs and cafés

Few places in the UK allow you to combine a riverside walk, a royal castle, ancient woodland and a traditional pub all in the same afternoon.

Whether you’re looking for a quick stroll or a full day’s adventure, there’s a walk around Windsor and the Thames that’s perfect for you.

The Big Question

Which is your favourite local walk?

The Long Walk?
Windsor Great Park?
A Thames Path favourite?

Or have you discovered a hidden gem that deserves more attention?