Leckhampton Hill - Coberley - Ullenwood Circular

Keith Mead

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The Cotswold escarpment above Leckhampton appears to be a spectacular natural landscape. It is spectacular, but far from natural, having been shaped by man from the building of an Iron Age fort through to the quarrying activities of the 18th and 19th Centuries. In this walk we explore the hill, visiting some of the best viewpoints, passing the remains of old quarry buildings and following some of the gentle, green inclines that once carried quarry railways.

At the top, we head away from the escarpment along peaceful country paths and lanes. We walk close to Seven Springs, claimed by some to be the source of the Thames and visit the pretty village of Coberley, once the home of Dick Whittington. On our return, we pass the famous pillar of rock known as the 'Devil's Chimney'. Here and all along the escarpment are superb views out over Cheltenham and the Severn Valley.

For a shorter walk (just over three miles) around Leckhampton Hill only, there is a short cut along the lane between Waymarks 11 and 20.

England - South West England - Gloucestershire - Cotswolds

Features

Ancient Monument, Birds, Butterflies, Church, Flowers, Great Views, Hills or Fells, Industrial Archaeology, Pub, Public Transport, Restaurant, Wildlife, Woodland

2/21/2014 - Frank Lee

What a great walk this is. It has variety of landscape, history and stunning views. We had great fun on the first steep section, swinging out over the gulley on the tree swing. The views from the top are fantastic. The final descent is steep but you could always walk along the ridge to the top of the starting climb and go back that way if you don't like a challenge. Thanks for all of the effort put into detailing the walk.

3/17/2009 - Nick Spooner

We found this to be a lovely walk. Yes it's a little steep at the beginning and end but no problem for anyone who is reasonably fit and sure footed. As well as the magnificent views, on our journey we made friends with a donkey, a horse and some new born baby lambs. Altogether now...aaaaaah!

9/23/2007 - Dianne Christophers

A walk that is not for the faint hearted. The inclines at the begining and end, are more suited to climbers than walkers, and the descent at the end has to be taken with care, as it is a sheer gravel path, (former use was for quarry trains, i'm told) and it would be very easy to slip and fall. Spiked climbing boots and crampons would have been usefull. The views were spectacular, but it's certainly hazzardous in parts.