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Cam Peak: Scenic Cotswold Escarpment Walk and Historic Hillfort

Discover Cam Peak’s breathtaking views, wildflower meadows, and ancient hillfort on a scenic Cotswold Way walk near Dursley.

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Cam Peak, near Dursley in Gloucestershire, offers a spectacular circular walk along the Cotswold Way, featuring wildflower-rich limestone grasslands, peaceful woodlands, and panoramic views from its 700ft summit. The route includes Cam Long Down and the nearby Iron Age hillfort Uley Bury, combining natural beauty with rich heritage in a family-friendly outdoor setting.

A brief summary to Cam Peak

  • Cotswold Way, Dursley, Cam, GB
  • +447815060499
  • Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours
  • Free
  • Environment icon Outdoor
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Wear sturdy walking boots as the ascent to Cam Peak is steep and the terrain can be uneven.
  • Visit in spring for spectacular bluebell displays carpeting the woodlands.
  • Keep dogs on a lead around grazing livestock, especially in spring when lambs are present.
  • Extend your walk by continuing along the Cotswold Way to Coaley Peak or Woodchester Park.
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Getting There

  • Bus

    Take the Stagecoach bus service from Gloucester or Stroud to Dursley town centre, with a journey time of approximately 30 to 50 minutes. Services run hourly but check schedules for weekends and holidays. From Dursley, the Cam Peak walk starts within a 20-minute walk.

  • Car

    Drive to Cam Long Down car park (postcode GL11 5HH) near Cam village, about 10 minutes from Dursley town centre. Parking is free but limited, so arrive early on weekends. The walkhead is accessible from the car park.

  • Train

    Arrive by train at Cam and Dursley station on the Bristol to Gloucester line. The station is about 1.5 km from the start of the Cam Peak walk, a 20-minute walk along quiet roads and footpaths.

Cam Peak location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather

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Discover more about Cam Peak

A Natural Jewel on the Cotswold Escarpment

Cam Peak rises prominently near the market town of Dursley, standing at around 700 feet above sea level. It forms part of the Cotswold escarpment, a defining landscape feature known for its rolling hills, limestone grasslands, and diverse flora. The area around Cam Peak is celebrated for its wildflower meadows, especially in spring when bluebells carpet the woodlands, creating a vibrant and tranquil atmosphere. The limestone grasslands support a rich variety of wildflowers and butterflies, making it a haven for nature lovers and photographers alike.

Walking Routes and Panoramic Vistas

The main attraction is the circular walking route accessible from Dursley town centre or the Cam Long Down car park. The walk spans approximately 3.5 to 4 miles (5.6 to 6.4 km) and takes between 1.5 to 2 hours at a leisurely pace. The ascent up Cam Peak is steep but rewarding, offering a 360-degree panorama from the summit. From here, views stretch across the Severn Vale, the Cotswold Edge, and even to the Brecon Beacons and Black Mountain ranges in Wales on clear days. The route continues along Cam Long Down, a long, flat-topped hill with further sweeping views and peaceful woodland trails.

Historic Significance of Uley Bury

Close to Cam Peak lies Uley Bury, an impressive multi-vallate Iron Age hillfort dating back to around 300 BC. This flat-topped hill is a remarkable archaeological site, offering insight into ancient defensive structures and settlement patterns. Today, it serves as a scenic meadow filled with daisies and wildflowers, with benches inviting visitors to pause and absorb the historic ambiance alongside spectacular views of the surrounding countryside.

Flora, Fauna, and Seasonal Highlights

The area’s limestone grasslands and woodlands support diverse wildlife, including grazing sheep and lambs in spring, which visitors should respect by keeping dogs on leads. The peak and its surroundings are especially popular in May when bluebells bloom profusely, transforming the woods into a sea of blue. Birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts will appreciate the tranquility and biodiversity of the reserve throughout the year.

Visitor Experience and Practical Details

Cam Peak is open year-round with no entrance fees, making it an accessible destination for families, walkers, and outdoor enthusiasts. The terrain varies from steep climbs to gentle grassy paths and woodland trails, so sturdy footwear is recommended. The walk is suitable for most fitness levels, with options to shorten or extend the route by connecting to other nearby trails such as Coaley Peak and Woodchester Park. Facilities nearby include parking at Cam Long Down and amenities in Dursley town centre.

Community and Conservation

Local farmers and land managers play a vital role in maintaining the landscape’s health and beauty through sustainable grazing and conservation practices. The area is cherished by walkers and locals alike as a peaceful retreat offering both natural splendor and cultural heritage. Its status as a national reserve helps protect the delicate ecosystems and historic sites for future generations to enjoy.

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