Great Hill, Lambridge Wood and Famous Copse Loop

Starting near Oxfordshire, England, the Great Hill, Lambridge Wood, and Famous Copse Loop is a delightful 9 km (approximately 5.6 miles) trail with an elevation gain of around 200 meters (656 feet). This loop trail is rated as medium difficulty, making it suitable for moderately experienced hikers.

Getting There

To reach the trailhead, you can drive or use public transport. If driving, head towards Henley-on-Thames, a well-known town in Oxfordshire. The nearest significant landmark to the trailhead is the Henley Golf Club. For those using public transport, Henley-on-Thames railway station is the closest, with regular services from London Paddington. From the station, a short taxi ride or a local bus can take you to the starting point near the golf club.

Trail Overview

The trail begins near Henley Golf Club, offering a gentle start through open fields and gradually ascending into the woodlands. The initial 2 km (1.2 miles) are relatively easy, with a gradual elevation gain of about 50 meters (164 feet), making it a pleasant warm-up.

Lambridge Wood

As you enter Lambridge Wood, the trail becomes more shaded and serene. This section is rich in biodiversity, with a variety of bird species and small mammals. Keep an eye out for the ancient beech and oak trees that dominate the landscape. The trail here is well-marked, but it's advisable to use HiiKER for navigation to ensure you stay on track.

Great Hill

Around the 4 km (2.5 miles) mark, you will begin the ascent to Great Hill. This is the most challenging part of the hike, with an elevation gain of approximately 100 meters (328 feet) over a short distance. The effort is well worth it, as the summit offers panoramic views of the Oxfordshire countryside. On a clear day, you can see as far as the Chiltern Hills.

Famous Copse

Descending from Great Hill, the trail leads you into Famous Copse, a small but historically significant woodland. This area was once part of the medieval hunting grounds of the local nobility. The copse is particularly beautiful in spring when bluebells carpet the forest floor. This section of the trail is relatively flat, making for an easy and enjoyable walk.

Return to Trailhead

The final stretch of the loop takes you through a mix of open fields and small wooded areas, gradually descending back towards the starting point near Henley Golf Club. This section is about 3 km (1.9 miles) and offers a gentle cool-down after the more strenuous parts of the hike.

Points of Interest

• Henley Golf Club: Starting point and a good place to park if driving.
• Lambridge Wood: Rich in wildlife and ancient trees.
• Great Hill: Offers stunning panoramic views.
• Famous Copse: Historically significant and beautiful in spring.

Wildlife and Flora

The trail is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, foxes, and numerous bird species. The flora is equally diverse, with ancient beech and oak trees, bluebells in spring, and a variety of wildflowers in the open fields.

Historical Significance

The area around Famous Copse has a rich history, once serving as hunting grounds for local nobility. The ancient woodlands and historical landmarks add a layer of intrigue to the hike, making it not just a physical journey but a walk through history.

Using HiiKER for navigation is highly recommended to ensure you stay on the correct path and make the most of your hiking experience.