Selsley Common and the Cotswold Escarpment
Gloucestershire
Selsley Common perches on the Cotswold escarpment above Stroud, a broad sweep of unenclosed limestone grassland with panoramic views west across the Severn Vale to the Forest of Dean and the Welsh hills beyond. This 5km circuit follows the edge of the common along the escarpment before looping back across the open grassland, passing the distinctive All Saints church with its Pre-Raphaelite stained glass windows. The common is rich with limestone wildflowers in summer, including bee orchids, wild thyme and kidney vetch, and the exposed position gives it a breezy, elevated character. Just 97 metres of climbing keeps the walking easy throughout.
Off-lead potential on this dog friendly walk is limited as cattle graze the common throughout the year and dogs must be kept under close control at all times. The cows are generally placid but can be protective of calves in spring and summer. Despite the lead requirement, the open grassland and long views make this a pleasant outing, and the limestone turf is firm and well-drained in most conditions. Water sources are scarce on the chalk, so carry a supply. Parking is available at the common. Stroud is a short drive with numerous dog-friendly pubs and its famous Saturday farmers' market. The views from the escarpment edge are particularly fine on clear days when the Severn estuary glints in the distance.
At a Glance
- Distance
- 5.0 km (3.1 miles)
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Duration
- 1 hr 30 min
- Walk Type
- Peak, Historic
- Route Type
- Circular
- Off Lead Potential
- Low
- Livestock Risk
- High
- Facilities
- None on site; pubs in village
- Parking
- Free car park at Selsley Common
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Selsley Common and the Cotswold Escarpment dog friendly?
Selsley Common scores 8 out of 10 for dog friendliness, and it's a genuinely enjoyable outing for dogs and owners alike. The open limestone grassland, firm turf underfoot and sweeping views across the Severn Vale to the Welsh hills make it a lovely spot, and parking is free at the common. Bear in mind that there are no facilities on site, though dog-friendly pubs can be found in nearby Stroud.
Can dogs be off lead at Selsley Common and the Cotswold Escarpment?
Off-lead freedom is limited here, as cattle graze the common throughout the year and dogs must be kept under close control at all times. The cows are generally placid, but they can become protective of calves during spring and summer, so extra caution is worth exercising in those months. Despite this, the wide open grassland still gives dogs plenty to sniff and explore on a lead.
What should I know before visiting Selsley Common and the Cotswold Escarpment with my dog?
The most important thing to prepare for is the lack of water on the common, so bring a good supply for both you and your dog as there are no natural sources on the route. Keep your dog on a lead or under very close control around the grazing cattle, particularly in spring and summer when calves may be present. The 5km circuit involves only 97 metres of climbing, so the walking is easy throughout, and the limestone turf is generally firm and well-drained.
Selsley Common Car Park, The Grove, Selsley, Stroud, Gloucestershire, GL5 5LE
51.7225, -2.2493
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