Annual Parish Boundary Walk

We’re delighted to say that the Charlbury Annual Parish Boundary Walk is returning this year — and everyone’s welcome to join in this wonderful local tradition!

📍 Start Point: Lay-by at the top of Forest Road (Point 1 on the map)

🕙 Time: 10:00am, just turn up – no booking needed!

This is your chance to be part of a centuries-old tradition, known as “beating the bounds” — an ancient way of checking the boundaries of the parish (and a great excuse for a scenic countryside walk!). 🗺️🌼

🧭 The full walk is around 12 miles and takes roughly 6 hours, including a lunch stop. The route takes in some stunning views and paths not usually open to the public, thanks to the kind permission of local landowners.

🥪 Lunch break will be at Ditchley Model Farm, generously hosted by Rob and Maxine Hobill. Please bring:

A packed lunch

Snacks and plenty of water

Emergency contact info (just in case)

🧢🌞 What to wear/bring:

Sturdy walking boots

Long trousers (to avoid nettles and Blandford fly bites)

Insect repellent, sunhat and sunscreen

SORRY NO DOGS are allowed on the Cornbury stretch of the walk as deer are currently  fawning, in addition there are ground nesting birds which are vulnerable at this time of year. 

There are several points along the way where you can join in or head home if you don’t fancy the full distance. See the map for details (Cornbury Bridge (4) , Layby by Solar Farm (7), Saltway/ Woodstock Road crossing (10), Ditchley Farm (11) and Enstone Road crossing (12)) and please let the walk leader know if you’re leaving the group partway.

Let’s come together to celebrate local heritage, enjoy the countryside, and get a bit of fresh air and exercise too! 🥾🍃

#CharlburyWalk #BeatingTheBounds #CharlburyTraditions #GetOutside #OxfordshireEvents