The Ridgeway at Streatley and the River Thames

Streatley sits where the Thames cuts through the chalk escarpment at the Goring Gap, and this 9.7 km circuit makes the most of that geography. The route climbs immediately from the village onto the Ridgeway — one of England's oldest roads — and follows it west along an elevated chalk spine before looping back to the river and returning via water meadow and Thames Path. The two halves of the walk feel almost entirely different: exposed, mineral-scented downland on the ridge, then cool and damp riverside on the return.

For dogs, that contrast is the point. The chalk upland is tightly grazed turf thick with rabbit and fox scent, firm underfoot for most of the year. The Thames section offers river access at several points, and the meadow grass carries strong goose and rabbit scent from the herds that graze the floodplain. Sheep are present on the downland so leads are needed on the ridge; the riverside return is generally livestock-free and more relaxed. The chalk can be slippery after rain on the upper sections. Pub and café options in Streatley make this an easy walk to frame around a meal.