Oxford Delight: Port Meadow, the River Thames and Wytham Wood

This beautiful and tranquil circular walk ticks all the Vespucci boxes. A great coffee at Opera in Walton Street, the stunning views across Port Meadow to the River Thames, a multitude of picnic spots, two great pubs and plenty of points of interest. Step off the train at Oxford Station and spend a day living in the present with family, friends, or colleagues. It’s a flat walk with a good opportunity to cut it short at The Trout (or indeed take a bus or taxi back at that point). Alternatively, stretch it out with a loop that skirts Wytham Woods and joins the Thames path. One word of caution: Port Meadow becomes impassable if the Thames has broken its banks!
Walking Time:5 hrs
Walking Distance:19.2 km
Total Ascent:43 m
Highest Point:79 m

Hike Highlights

  • Quality cafes near the start
  • Glimpses of beautiful Oxford colleges and the skyline
  • The tranquilly of Port Meadow and the Thames River bank
  • Bird song and wild flowers to appreciate along the way
  • Two outstanding pubs to enjoy
  • Wild swimming an option for those who are interested but please take extreme care!