I don't know about you, but with as Spring approaches and the short moody Winter days are on the final countdown to hiatus, I tend to get really excited, energised and I get eager to get out. For many new parents with a pushchair, finding the right trail and the right walk that is easily accessible for their buggy or a pram can be a challenge - so I decided to put together a top 5 list of pushchair friendly walks in Oxfordshire that you can enjoy with your little ones.
1. The Phoenix Trail
Location: Between Thame and Princes Risborough
Length: approx. 6 miles long (approx. 2 hours and 30 min of fast walking) Parking: in Thame or Princes Risborough
This trail is flat and well surfaced, making it ideal for pushchairs and wheelchairs. It is also particularly popular among cyclists and horse riders.
This lovely trail leading through the beautiful Oxfordshire countryside is rich in wildlife and birds of prey, and provides seating and resting places every 500 meters.
If you enjoy art, this trail will be ideal for you as it comprises a series 30 artworks throughout the trail that are inspired by Chiltern Hills old railways and landscapes.
2. Stoke Woods
Location: approx. 4 miles north from Bicester
Length: approx. 2.8 miles of paths through the woods
Parking: free car park on site
If you enjoy woodland walks, Stoke Woods is the perfect place conveniently located just few minutes outside of Bicester. I would recommend visiting this place especially in the Spring months as the woodland lights up with gorgeous flowers such as bluebells, anemones and primroses. This lovely and serene walk through the woods is also great if you have older children as there are so many places they can explore, collect pine cones and hazelnuts. Just be aware that it can get muddy very quickly and so it is best to avoid visiting this place just after the rain.
3. Rushy Commons nature reserve andTar Lakes, Witney
Location: near Witney
Length: two 3 miles circular walks around the Rushy Commons, 650 meters of well surfaced grounds around the lakes
Parking on site: Yes
Lovely walk around lakes which is well surfaced, suitable for pushchairs and wheelchairs. Enjoy the rich wildlife and breathtaking views on this beautiful walk.
4. Bure Park nature reserve
Location: Bicester, OX26 3ZJ Parking: you can leave your car in the nearby Co-op car park
Rich in wildlife with nice flat terrain, this park is ideal not only for pushchair strolls but also for running, dog walks or even a picnic. Pushchair and dog friendly, there is also a football pitch and kids playground nearby, making this place a great walk for the whole family.
5. Blenheim Palace grounds
Location: Woodstock, OX20 1PP Parking: paid parking on site
Blenheim Palace has a little bit of everything - beautiful gardens, woodland walk and even lake walks, majority of those being pushchair friendly with easy terrain and flat surface. A great day out for the whole family. More information and admissions here.
I hope this article inspired you to explore some new places with your little one. What is your favourite place to go with your family during the Spring? Feel free to share your favourite pushchair friendly walks in the comments to inspire other parents.