Exploring Leckhampton Hill and Charlton Kings Common

There are numerous routes across Leckhampton Hill and the Common, with sections forming part of the Cotswold Way. There are several car parks and starting points to choose from - for a more challenging route, incorporating the steep ascent from the base, start from the car park on Daisy Bank Road. For a gentler route you can start from Brownstones carpark, this route provides an accessible trail that loops around the top of the hill, there is also a mobility trail starting from this point.

From the top you’ll enjoy sweeping panoramic views across the Severn Vale and the distant Malvern Hills, and on a clear day you can even see as far as the Welsh mountains!

The landscape is a made up of wildflower meadows, ancient woodland, and striking limestone rock formations, including the famous Devils Chimney. As a site of historical importance, you’ll find an Iron Age fort and fossils from the Jurassic period.

Along your journey keep your eyes peeled and you’ll spot an abundance of wildlife, from butterflies to beautiful brightly coloured wild birds like yellow hammers, bluetits and chaffinches. Birds of prey can also be seen in this area, if you’re lucky you may spot Red Kites gliding at the top of the common. Lesser spotted wildlife includes the adder, although very secretive and rarely seen, occasionally you may catch a glimpse of one warming up in the sun – but it’s important to note that as impressive and beautiful as these snakes are, they should not be approached by either people or dogs.

Leckhampton Hill and Charlton Kings Common are also home to a variety of flora, with some being rare and unique to the Cotswolds. Depending on the time of year, keep an eye out for colourful wild orchids, sweet violets and forget-me-nots.

Much of the area has been designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest – this is due to the rarity of species that can be found here, therefore, it is important to enjoy your adventure from the many marked footpaths, to protect and preserve the rare and unique nature of this region.

Additional notes

There are no cafes or toilets along the route, but just five minutes drive down to Bath Road in Cheltenham there are a wide variety of shops, pubs and cafes  which offer the perfect spot to relax and refresh after your adventure.