Cliveden woodland walking trail
Explore the woodland at Cliveden on this moderate walk taking in a play trail for the kids, picnic areas and spectacular views over the River Thames and the surrounding countryside.
Accessing Cliveden estate
The historic country estate of Cliveden overlooks the River Thames and is open daily for most of the year. For access to these walking routes, you will need to be a National Trust member or pay the admission fee at the entrance to the estate.
Total steps: 9
Total steps: 9
Start point
Cliveden information centre, grid ref: SU910856
Step 1
Exit the car park via the ornate gates near the information centre and immediately turn left. Go through a second metal gate and follow the right-hand path signed 'Woodlands', skirting the edge of the Water Garden.
Step 2
Leave the Water Garden via the wooden gate and follow the avenue straight ahead. Known as Green Drive, this route will take you past our entry kiosk (take care crossing the road) and into the woods.
Step 3
Continue along Green Drive for another 0.6 miles (1km).
Step 4
Shortly after passing the last houses in the Cliveden Village development on your left, look out for a path on your right signed 'Play Trail' in yellow letters. For the Play Trail, follow the yellow arrows to the right. To continue on this walk, bear left.
Step 5
In approximately 180ft (50m), where the path splits again, take the right-hand fork. Note: to visit the Woodland Lounge, where you'll find toilets and a picnic area, follow the left fork. To continue the walk, retrace your steps to this point (don't go further along the left fork as the paths don't re-join).
Step 6
After a further 100ft (30m), turn right at the T-junction.
Step 7
Continue on the wide path along the clifftop, following the fingerposts to 'Dukes Statue'. To your left, you'll start to catch glimpses of the surrounding countryside and River Thames below.
Step 8
The path eventually brings you to a viewpoint with sweeping countryside vistas. Follow the path to your right (away from the river), where you'll see Cliveden House and the Parterre below. Continue along this avenue of lime trees to re-join Green Drive.
Step 9
At the second crossroads, bear left onto Green Drive and follow the fingerposts to retrace your steps back to the Water Garden.
End point
Cliveden information centre, grid ref: SU910856
Trail map
More near here
Cliveden blue walking trail
A family-friendly woodland walk with a natural den and picnic area, plus a play trail featuring a rope swing, stepping stones and balancing beams.
Cliveden green walking trail
Explore the woodlands, discover a former owner of the estate and take in glorious views of the River Thames, the surrounding countryside and Cliveden House.
Cliveden gold walking trail
Take in tranquil riverside scenery, shady woodland, dramatic views of the Berkshire countryside and places of historical interest on this circular trail.
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