81 The Prom

Cheltenham Circular Footpath

Circles Cheltenham's edge through varied terrain – gentle parkland stretches, moderate climbs through beechwoods on the Cotswold escarpment, and flat sections along streams. Manageable for older children used to longer walks, but hilly parts and stiles make it unsuitable for buggies. Dogs welcome on leads near livestock. Worth it for sweeping views over town and countryside, plus sampling different landscapes from spa gardens to ancient woodland in one loop.

Gustav Holst Way (Crickley Hill to Holst Birthplace Museum)

Traces 7km through Gloucestershire countryside from Crickley Hill's stunning escarpment views down to Cheltenham town centre. Expect a moderate descent with some steep sections early on, then gentler terrain as you approach Holst's birthplace. Suitable for older children used to longer walks, but not buggies due to uneven hillside paths. Dogs welcome on leads. Combines dramatic Cotswold scenery with cultural interest at the composer's Victorian terraced home.

Gustav Holst Way (Holst Birthplace Museum to Corndean Lane)

Follows a 7km linear route through Cheltenham's suburbs and into countryside near Leckhampton. Mostly flat to gentle inclines on pavements and field paths, though some sections can be muddy after rain. Suitable for older children but not buggies due to stiles and uneven ground. Dogs welcome on leads near livestock. Connects the composer's birthplace with rolling Cotswold views, offering a cultural-historical walk that blends urban heritage with pleasant rural stretches.

Isbourne Way

Follows the River Isbourne for 22km through gentle Cotswold countryside from Winchcombe to Evesham, mostly flat with one moderate climb near the start. Suitable for confident older children but not buggies due to field paths and occasional stiles. Dogs welcome on leads near livestock. Offers lovely riverside walking, picturesque villages, orchards and meadows—a proper slice of rural Gloucestershire without the crowds.

Gustav Holst Way (Cranham Church to Crickley Hill)