Bourton-on-the-Water (Rissington Road)

Bourtons Best Bits: Village and Eastern Countryside Loop

Location: Bourton-on-the-Water, Gloucestershire, The Cotswolds, GL54 2DT (This postcode is for the Rissington Road car park, your walk start and end point).

The Walk: River, Bridges and Eastern Fields

This fantastic 2.17-mile circular walk starts conveniently at Rissington Road car park, giving you immediate access to both the famous village and a taste of the peaceful eastern countryside.

1. Start at Rissington Road Car Park: Head out from the car park and follow the signs or paths that lead you straight into the heart of Bourton-on-the-Water.

2. Village Charm and River Windrush (Dogs on Lead): You'll quickly find yourself immersed in the famous village. Walk along the banks of the River Windrush, crossing some of its iconic low bridges. This area can be incredibly busy, so keep your dog on a lead and close to you, navigating around other visitors. Take a moment to soak in the picturesque scene.

3. Head East into the Countryside: As you reach the eastern side of the village, look for public footpaths that lead away from the main bustle and out into the countryside. These paths will typically guide you across open fields, providing a welcome sense of peace and space away from the crowds.

4. Cotswold Countryside Views: Enjoy the gentle contours of the Cotswold landscape. You'll walk along field edges, perhaps passing through small copses of trees, with views of arable land and hedgerows. The paths here are usually grassy or earth tracks.

5. Encounter Livestock (CRITICAL): This is a working agricultural area, so it's highly likely you'll encounter grazing livestock (sheep, cattle, or horses) in fields or adjacent to paths. It is absolutely essential to keep your dog on a lead when any livestock are present and give them a very wide berth. This is for everyone's safety.

6. Loop Back to Bourton: The paths will gracefully loop you back towards Bourton-on-the-Water, bringing you back into the village from a different aspect. You can then make your way back through familiar streets to the Rissington Road car park.

7. Post-Walk Treats: Bourton-on-the-Water offers numerous dog-friendly pubs and cafes. Many have outdoor seating perfect for relaxing with your pup after your walk (always check specific dog policies before heading inside).

Important Considerations for Your Walk

• VILLAGE CROWDS (CRITICAL): Bourton-on-the-Water gets extremely busy. Keep your dog on a lead in the village centre due to the sheer number of people, narrow bridges, and potential traffic.

• LIVESTOCK (CRITICAL): ALWAYS assume livestock may be present in the countryside sections. Keep your dog on a lead when livestock are in sight.

• Mud and Uneven Ground: Be ready for muddy conditions on the countryside footpaths after rain. Footwear with good grip is essential. You may also encounter stiles.

• Water for Dogs: Bring plenty of fresh water for your dog, especially on warmer days, as public water facilities are limited once you leave the main village.

• Dog Waste: Please be a responsible dog owner and always clean up after your dog. Use the bins provided in the village. Be prepared to take all waste home with you from rural paths.

• River Safety: While beautiful, the River Windrush can have slippery banks. Keep your dog from entering the river in uncontrolled areas.

• Shared Paths: Be courteous to other walkers, especially in busy areas.

Why Your Dog Will Love This Walk

• Scenic Variety: A wonderful blend of iconic village charm and tranquil countryside.

• Interesting Smells: The mix of village life, river scents, and rural fields provides a continuous array of new smells.

• Perfect Length: At 2.17 miles, it's ideal for a good leg stretch without being too long.

• Picturesque: You'll both enjoy exploring one of the Cotswolds' most beautiful spots.