Distance: 14 miles (22.5 km)
Start: Abingdon
End: Wallingford
Time: 5-6 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Weather Forecast for this Section (Next 7 Days)
Section Overview
The next section of the Thames Path takes you from Abingdon to Wallingford. It’s a picturesque stretch coming in at 14 miles that weaves through historic villages, open countryside, and quiet meadows. It feels distinctly rural for much of the route, with only occasional road crossings and several scenic points to stop and take a break.
This section is ideal for walkers looking for a peaceful, full-day hike with plenty of natural beauty and some rewarding cultural stops along the way.
Leaving Abingdon
The route begins by leaving Abingdon along the riverbanks near Abbey Meadows, heading east and then south. You’ll soon cross Abingdon Lock, where pleasure boats and rowers often gather, and follow a clear path along the river’s edge.
This early stretch is wide open, with the Thames winding through flat farmland and patches of woodland. It’s not unusual to see herons, swans, and red kites overhead, especially in the quieter morning hours.
Clifton Hampden
After around 5 miles, you’ll arrive at Clifton Hampden, one of the prettiest villages along the Thames Path. Its striking 19th-century brick bridge, thatched cottages, and medieval church make it a highlight of the route.
Just by the river is the Barley Mow, a historic pub dating back to the 14th century and a popular stop for walkers. It’s a great place for a mid-walk meal or drink, especially with outside seating on sunny days.
Culham and Long Wittenham
Soon after Clifton Hampden, the trail passes near Culham and Long Wittenham, small, rural villages slightly off the main path. While not directly on the trail, you can take a small detour if you’d like to extend your hike with some additional exploration.
Long Wittenham is also home to The Pendon Museum, which features detailed miniature models of 1930s English life. This is well worth a visit if time allows and you’re interested in local heritage.
Shillingford and Benson
The route continues through open fields toward Shillingford, where another characterful bridge crosses the Thames. This area is popular with boaters, and the riverside becomes more active again. You’ll find a small number of accommodation options here if you’re breaking the walk into two shorter days.
A little further on is Benson Lock, surrounded by a peaceful picnic area and river views. Nearby is Benson Waterfront, which offers a café, holiday lodges and boat hire. It’s a good place to pause before completing the final stretch to Wallingford.
Arriving in Wallingford
The walk concludes in Wallingford, a charming historic market town with Saxon origins and strong ties to both the Norman conquest and later English royalty. The town sits along the Thames with a large stone bridge, bustling high street and riverside green spaces. Some notable sights include Wallingford Castle Meadows, Wallingford Museum and the Thameside Promenade.
The next section of the Thames Path continues for another 10 miles towards Goring.
Next Section
Wallingford to Goring – (10 Miles)
The walk between Wallingford and Goring is one of the Thames Path’s most scenic and rewarding stretches. This section brings together sweeping views of the river valley, wooded hills, ancient villages, and peaceful farmland. As you approach the Goring Gap, the landscape begins to narrow between the Chilterns and North Wessex Downs, offering a stunning natural corridor carved by the Thames.
Previous Section
Oxford to Abingdon – (9 Miles)
The Thames Path between Oxford and Abingdon offers a gentle and scenic riverside walk that bridges urban parkland and peaceful countryside. This stretch is shorter than others but rich in character, combining historic sites, green open spaces, and attractive river scenery. Ideal for a half-day walk or a relaxing continuation of the trail, this route is suitable for walkers of all abilities and offers several opportunities for food, rest, and riverside picnics.