Wednesday, 10th February, 2027 – Start: 10:00 am

Upper Slad Valley loop

A route down, up and along some of the steep, wooded, glacial slopes that feed into the Slad Valley.

Upper Slad Valley loop

Slad Valley
Photo: Jolyon Ridgwell

Distance

4 miles / 6.44 km

Duration

2.5 hours

Difficulty

Uneven, steep slopes, good fitness

Shape

Circular

Route description

A route around some of the glacial valleys, taking in a Roman bridge, several tributary brooks and the ancient trading routes of the area that converge into the Slad Brook. Includes some steep descents and climbs and sloping paths. Some of the paths are muddy and slippery. Poles or sticks are recommended.
No toilets – Woolpack Inn (Slad) is about 1 mile away from Bulls Cross and has toilets.
Nearby pubs with food inlcude Woolpack Inn (Slad), Foston’s Ash, Butcher’s Arms (Sheepscombe).

  • 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: Jolyon Ridgwell, Jane Wild, David Fickling, David Fabbro

    Start

    Address

    Bulls Cross layby Painswick
    View start on Google Maps

    OS Grid Ref

    SO 387769, 208750

    What3Words

    ///devoured.undertone.cafe

    Travel Info

    Limited free parking at the Bulls Cross layby. Please park by reversing in with your front towards the road to allow more cars to park and to make it easier when you drive away.