Paths Of Pangbourne

Colin Wharton heads to Pangbourne for an 11-mile journey across the meadows and along the Thames

This is a great varied hike with a mixture of fields, woodland, open vistas and a final picturesque section along the Thames from the village of Pangbourne.

Pangbourne lies on the south bank of the River Thames, opposite Whitchurch-on-Thames, the other side of the river. The River Pang, a tributary of the River Thames, flows through the village and it is thought that its water voles inspired the author Kenneth Grahame’s character, Ratty, in The Wind in the Willows.

1 (SU 63294 76660) Pangborne station has two exists depending on your direction of travel. In either case, locate the exit and walk down the hill from the station to reach Station Road. (The station car park charges £5.20 per weekday or £3.30 on a Saturday and Sunday if you wish to use it).

From Station Road turn right and follow Station Road south on the right-hand side of the road. Shortly you will pass Pangbourne Station Road Car Park – this is free on Sundays and there are some convenient public toilets. Carry on along Station Road and cross the pedestrian crossing, and then turn left into the High Street. Use the next pedestrian crossing to reach the other side of the road and continue walking east, just past WHSmith, and turn right down a lane called ‘The Moors’.