Friday, 9th October, 2026 – Start: 10:00 am

Shorter and Steadier Syde 2026-10

A reasonably gentle walk across meadows, through woods, crossing the infant river Frome and visiting the village of Syde.

Shorter and Steadier Syde 2026-10

View near Syde
Photo: Nick Mann

Distance

3.5 miles / 5.63 km

Duration

2.5 hours

Difficulty

Unsurfaced paths, basic fitness

Shape

Circular

Route description

The walk starts from Granny’s Pumps parking at the side of the A417 and leads down to a beautiful valley that is in the process of being re-wilded. The path crosses the infant river Frome on two occasions over recently installed bridges that have allowed the river to take a more meandering course and generate new wetland habitats. Then there is a climb into the village of Syde and the path back then follows the ridge above the valley and offers very attractive views.

  • Please wear weather-appropriate footwear and clothing for walking
  • Please bring a drink, a snack, and sunscreen
  • The day before a walk, please check to ensure it is still running – and for any exceptional weather forecasts / warnings
  • All walk leaders are appropriately trained and have basic first-aid skills
  • Assistance dogs (on short leads) are welcome
  • Guided walks with the Wardens are free, but we welcome donations to help us sustain our work across the Cotswolds National Landscape.

Organised by: Cotswold Voluntary Wardens

Led by: Nick Mann, Lynne Kelly

Start

Address

Granny's Pumps parking
View start on Google Maps

OS Grid Ref

SO 9578 1218

What3Words

///enlighten.wire.bend

Public toilets

Public Toilets in the layby

Travel Info

To get to the start-point and parking you have to go towards Cirencester on the A417 and turn off left to Elkstone, then turn left to go back under the A417, turn left again twice so that you are on A417 going north and the parking is on the left.