Cirencester Park and Broad Ride

Cirencester Park is one of the finest urban parks in England, home to the Broad Ride, a magnificent tree-lined avenue stretching for over a mile. This 3.5-mile walk combines the formal parkland with quieter woodland paths in the surrounding estate.

The Route

Enter the park through the gates on Cecily Hill in Cirencester town centre. The Broad Ride stretches before you, a wide grassy avenue flanked by ancient horse chestnuts and beeches. Walk the full length to the polo ground, then cut right into the woodland section. Quieter paths wind through mixed woodland where deer are sometimes spotted.

Follow the park boundary path south, then west, returning via the southern section of the park. This area has more open parkland with mature specimen trees. The final approach brings you back along a parallel avenue to the starting point. The park has been open to the public since the 1700s and retains a sense of gracious estate living.

Dog-Friendly Details

Dogs are welcome and can be off lead in the park, which is one of the most popular dog walking spots in the Cotswolds. The flat terrain and good paths make it suitable for all dogs. There is no water in the park so carry your own. The woodland sections are particularly enjoyable for dogs who love to sniff and explore.

Practical Information

Cirencester has several car parks (charges apply). The park is free to enter. Paths are firm and walkable year-round. The polo ground hosts matches in summer. Cirencester town has excellent dog-friendly pubs, cafes and shops for post-walk refreshments. The park is managed by the Bathurst Estate.