Wychwood Forest Walk
Woodstock, Oxfordshire
Wychwood Forest is one of the last remaining fragments of the ancient royal hunting forest that once covered much of western Oxfordshire. Now a nature reserve managed by the Berks, Bucks and Oxon Wildlife Trust, it is a peaceful remnant of the wildwood that covered Britain thousands of years ago.
The Route
Start from the Cornbury Park entrance and follow the permissive path through the ancient woodland. The forest contains oak, ash and field maple trees hundreds of years old, with a rich understorey of hazel, blackthorn and wild service tree. Woodland glades open up periodically, filled with wildflowers in spring and alive with butterflies in summer.
The route loops through the southern section of the forest and returns along a farm track with views across the Evenlode Valley. The entire walk has a timeless, untouched quality that makes you feel far from modern life.
Dog-Friendly Details
Dogs can be off-lead on the permissive paths through the forest. The woodland is rich in wildlife and scents that dogs find fascinating. Paths can be muddy in winter. No water sources in the forest so carry your own.
Practical Information
Limited parking at the Cornbury Park entrance. No facilities at the forest. The nearest pubs and shops are in Charlbury (3 miles), which has a dog-friendly Crown pub and a train station on the Cotswold Line. Open access days are held several times a year for the nature reserve sections.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Wychwood Forest open to the public?
The permissive paths through the forest are open year-round. The nature reserve sections have open access days several times a year. The walk described uses the public permissive paths.
Is it muddy?
The woodland paths can be very muddy in winter and after rain. Waterproof boots are recommended from October to March.
