Leckhampton Hill and Charlton Kings Common
Limestone cliffs, wild orchids, and panoramic vistas above Cheltenham's cherished skyline.
A dramatic limestone escarpment within the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Leckhampton Hill rises prominently above Cheltenham with its iconic Devil's Chimney rock formation. This 400-hectare nature reserve combines Iron Age heritage, industrial archaeology, and rich biodiversity—from rare orchids and butterflies to buzzards and red kites—with panoramic views stretching across the Severn Vale to the Brecon Beacons. Multiple walking routes suit all abilities, from accessible tarmac paths to steep woodland trails.
A brief summary to Leckhampton Hill
- Cotswold Way, Cheltenham, Shurdington, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 4 hours
- Free
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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, closed-toe hiking boots with good grip. The paths are rocky and the initial ascent from Daisy Bank is steep; proper footwear is essential for safety and comfort.
- There are no public toilets on-site, so plan accordingly. Bring water and snacks, especially if attempting the steeper routes or visiting with children.
- Visit in late spring or early summer to see the orchids and butterflies at their peak. Clear days offer the best panoramic views; aim for late afternoon light for photography.
- Keep dogs close in the woodland areas where cyclists and mountain bikers are active. Watch for adders in the undergrowth and be aware of cattle grazing on Charlton Kings Common.
- Use Daisy Bank Road to locate the car parks; avoid relying solely on GPS, which may direct you to private property. Multiple free car parks are available at different elevations.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Seating Areas
Getting There
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Car from Cheltenham Town Centre
Drive south from Cheltenham town centre toward Leckhampton Road, then follow signs to Daisy Bank Road. The journey takes approximately 10–15 minutes depending on traffic. Free parking is available at Daisy Bank Car Park and Bridge Car Park on Daisy Bank Road. Alternative higher-level car parks are located at Salterley Quarry and Brownstone Quarry, accessed from the eastern end of Hartley Lane, offering shorter walks to the summit but with steeper approach roads. All parking is free.
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Local Bus from Cheltenham
Public transport options are limited for direct access to the hill. Local bus services from Cheltenham town centre may reach nearby stops, but expect a 20–40 minute walk from the nearest bus stop to the main car parks or trailheads. Check current Cheltenham Borough Council bus routes for services to Leckhampton Road or Hartley Lane. Journey time from town centre to nearest stop is typically 15–25 minutes.
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Walking or Cycling from Cheltenham
A walk or cycle ride from Cheltenham town centre to Leckhampton Hill is possible but substantial—approximately 3–4 miles depending on your starting point and chosen route. Allow 1–1.5 hours walking time or 20–30 minutes cycling. The route involves residential streets and country lanes; use local maps to navigate safely. Cycling is popular on the hill itself, particularly in the woodland areas.
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Accessible Route via Brownstone Car Park
For visitors with mobility limitations, the dedicated mobility scooter route begins at Brownstone Car Park on Hartley Lane. This 2.25-mile route features hard or grassy surfaces with mostly level terrain and gentle slopes, offering fine views over the Severn Vale. Access to Hartley Lane is from Leckhampton Hill Road or the A435 at Seven Springs roundabout. Parking is free at Brownstone Car Park.
Leckhampton Hill location weather suitability
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Any Weather
Discover more about Leckhampton Hill
A Landmark Carved by Time and Industry
Leckhampton Hill dominates the southern skyline of Cheltenham, its distinctive profile instantly recognizable across the town. This 400-hectare expanse sits within the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and has served as both a cherished recreational space and a window into geological and human history. The hill's most famous feature, the Devil's Chimney, is a towering natural rock formation perched on the cliff edge—a dramatic sentinel that has captivated visitors for generations. The name itself carries local folklore, though the formation is simply the result of millions of years of erosion and the underlying geology of the Cotswolds.Echoes of the Industrial Revolution
Walking across Leckhampton Hill is to traverse the remnants of a vanished industrial landscape. During the 18th and 19th centuries, limestone quarrying transformed these hillsides into a hive of activity. Old tramways still crisscross the terrain, and the remains of kilns and quarries are clearly visible—silent monuments to the era when this stone helped build much of the surrounding region. The Brownstone and Salterley quarries, now integrated into the walking routes, reveal the geological layers that miners once extracted. This industrial heritage adds a compelling layer to the experience, inviting visitors to imagine the sounds and labor that once filled these now-peaceful slopes.A Living Laboratory of Nature
Beyond its historical significance, Leckhampton Hill is designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest for its unimproved calcareous grassland and geological exposures. The hill supports an extraordinary array of wildlife adapted to chalk and limestone soils. Orchids thrive here in remarkable diversity—Early Purple, Common Spotted, Musk, Butterfly, Fly, and Bee orchids all flourish among the grasses. Butterflies including the Duke of Burgundy, Dark Green Fritillary, and Pearl Bordered Fritillary dance across the meadows in warmer months. Raptors patrol the skies; buzzards and kestrels are regularly spotted, and red kites have been sighted soaring above the ridge. Mammals such as foxes, badgers, stoats, and rabbits inhabit the woodland fringes, while reptiles shelter among the rocky outcrops.Routes for Every Explorer
The hill offers remarkable flexibility for different abilities and interests. A dedicated mobility scooter route starting from Brownstone car park provides 2.25 miles of mostly level, hard-surfaced terrain with gentle slopes and fine views over the Severn Vale. Family-friendly woodland walks at the base suit young children and dogs. The steep ascent from Daisy Bank Car Park rewards determined hikers with increasingly expansive vistas, culminating at the summit where the panorama stretches across Cheltenham to the distant Brecon Beacons. The Cotswold Way long-distance trail passes directly through the site, linking Leckhampton to the broader network of Cotswold walking routes. Routes vary from leisurely 1.5-hour circuits to more ambitious half-day explorations.Ancient Settlements and Earthworks
Beneath the modern recreational landscape lies evidence of human occupation spanning millennia. An Iron Age hillfort crowns the summit, its defensive earthworks still traceable across the turf. A long barrow—a Neolithic burial monument—speaks to even deeper roots of human presence. These archaeological features, combined with the geological exposures and industrial heritage, make Leckhampton Hill a palimpsest of human and natural history, each layer telling its own story to those who pause to observe.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Gloucestershire Historic Churches Trust
5.4 km
Explore the rich ecclesiastical heritage of Gloucestershire through its historic churches, showcasing stunning architecture and engaging community initiatives.
Visit Cotswolds Online
5.4 km
Explore the enchanting Cotswolds, where rolling hills, historic villages, and breathtaking landscapes await every traveler seeking an unforgettable adventure.
World Walks (inc. Cotswold Journeys, British & Irish Walks)
8.1 km
Explore the captivating beauty of the Cotswolds with World Walks, your gateway to unforgettable guided walking tours across Britain and Ireland.
Cotswold Journeys
8.1 km
Explore the enchanting Cotswolds on expertly crafted walking tours with seamless logistics and charming local stays.
Eastgate viewing chamber
11.3 km
Discover Gloucester’s ancient Roman and medieval city defenses through a unique underground viewing chamber beneath Eastgate Street.
Sudeley Castle Gardens
12.6 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and rich history of Sudeley Castle Gardens, a must-visit gem in the heart of the Cotswolds.
Cerney House Gardens
12.7 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Cerney House Gardens, a tranquil retreat in the Cotswolds, perfect for nature lovers and relaxation.
Over Bridge
13.0 km
Historic stone arch bridge by Thomas Telford, offering scenic river views and a glimpse into 19th-century engineering near Gloucester.
Our Lady's Well
13.2 km
Unveil the serenity and historical significance of Our Lady's Well in Gloucester, a must-visit landmark for tourists seeking tranquility and local lore.
Odda's Chapel
13.9 km
Explore the historic Odda's Chapel in Deerhurst, a stunning example of Anglo-Saxon architecture and a serene retreat into England's past.
National Trust - Ashleworth Tithe Barn
14.5 km
Explore the historic Ashleworth Tithe Barn, a beautifully preserved medieval structure showcasing England's agricultural heritage amidst stunning countryside.
Siccaridge Wood
15.0 km
Explore Siccaridge Wood: A serene nature reserve near Cirencester, offering beautiful trails and diverse wildlife for nature lovers.
Tewkesbury Abbey
15.2 km
Explore Tewkesbury Abbey, a stunning medieval masterpiece rich in history and breathtaking architecture, nestled in the heart of Tewkesbury.
Haresfield Topograph
15.4 km
A three-dimensional map landmark on the Cotswold escarpment with panoramic views toward Wales.
Hailes Abbey
15.7 km
Discover the serene beauty and rich history of Hailes Abbey, a stunning Cotswolds gem that transports visitors back to medieval times.
Unmissable attractions to see
Devil's Chimney
0.1 km
Discover the twisted limestone pillar of Devil's Chimney, a legendary landmark blending nature, history, and folklore atop Leckhampton Hill.
Barber wood
1.9 km
Discover peaceful woodland and limestone grassland trails in Barber Wood, a natural gem nestled in the heart of the Cotswolds.
Crickley Hill Country Park
2.4 km
Explore Crickley Hill Country Park’s stunning wildlife, ancient hillfort, and panoramic Cotswold views in a family-friendly natural sanctuary.
Montpellier Gardens
3.5 km
A serene Regency-era garden oasis in Cheltenham, blending historic charm with vibrant community life and lush greenery.
Montpellier Walk
3.5 km
Elegant Regency promenade in Cheltenham with historic architecture, boutique shops, and a lively café culture at its heart.
Imperial Gardens
3.7 km
A historic and vibrant formal garden in Cheltenham’s heart, hosting stunning floral displays and lively festivals year-round.
Gustav Holst Statue & Planets Fountain
3.7 km
A captivating bronze tribute in Cheltenham’s Imperial Gardens celebrating Gustav Holst and his iconic orchestral suite The Planets.
Cheltenham Town Hall
3.7 km
A stunning Edwardian Baroque venue in Cheltenham’s Imperial Square, hosting vibrant concerts, festivals, and events in a grand historic setting.
The Neptune Fountain
3.9 km
A majestic 19th-century fountain on Cheltenham’s Promenade, celebrating Neptune with classical grandeur and Regency elegance.
Cotswold Alpacas
3.9 km
Experience the charm of the Cotswolds with gentle alpaca walks, sustainable farming, and artisan fibre crafts at Cotswold Alpacas.
Royal Cres
4.1 km
Elegant Regency crescent in Cheltenham showcasing handcrafted ironwork and historic spa town charm from the early 1800s.
The Hare and the Minotaur
4.1 km
A captivating sculpture blending myth and nature, The Hare and the Minotaur stands tall on Cheltenham’s Promenade, crafted from reclaimed metal by Sophie Ryder.
The Wilson Art Gallery and Museum and The Wilson Kitchen arts café
4.2 km
Discover Cheltenham’s vibrant arts and heritage hub with inspiring exhibitions, family activities, and a charming café in the heart of the town.
High St
4.3 km
Cheltenham’s main shopping street, where big brands meet independent boutiques in a lively Cotswolds market town.
Cotswold Way
4.4 km
A 102-mile National Trail through quintessential English countryside, connecting picturesque Cotswold villages from Chipping Campden to Bath.
Essential places to dine
Le Champignon Sauvage
3.1 km
A serene Michelin-starred haven in Cheltenham offering inventive Anglo-French cuisine with exceptional service and a celebrated wine list.
The Ivy Montpellier Brasserie Cheltenham
3.5 km
Elegant dining in Cheltenham’s historic Montpellier Rotunda, blending modern British cuisine with iconic Ivy style and grand architectural charm.
Prithvi
3.8 km
Experience innovative Indian fine dining in Cheltenham with exquisite flavors, elegant ambiance, and impeccable service at Prithvi.
Petit Coco Bistro
3.9 km
Charming French bistro in Cheltenham offering authentic classics, cozy farmhouse decor, and a warm, intimate dining experience.
Purslane Restaurant
4.0 km
Discover Purslane, Cheltenham’s intimate modern British restaurant celebrating sustainable seafood and seasonal local produce with inventive flair.
Lumiere
4.1 km
Michelin-starred Lumière in Cheltenham offers innovative British fine dining with seasonal, home-grown ingredients in an elegant, intimate setting.
MUSE Brasserie
4.2 km
Creative fusion of French and Indian cuisine in stylish Cheltenham setting, offering innovative dishes and warm, attentive service.
Cosy Club
4.3 km
Eclectic British dining and lively social vibes await you daily in Cheltenham’s vibrant Brewery Quarter.
The Coconut Tree Cheltenham
4.8 km
Experience vibrant Sri Lankan street food and island cocktails in a cozy, lively Cheltenham venue with authentic flavours and warm hospitality.
Wheatstone Inn
8.1 km
A traditional British pub in Barnwood, Gloucester, serving classic pub fare and local ales in a relaxed, family-friendly setting.
Nepalese Chef
10.9 km
Experience authentic Nepalese and Asian fusion cuisine with a welcoming atmosphere and diverse menu in the heart of Gloucester.
Queens Head Longford
11.0 km
A cherished gastropub in Gloucester offering hearty traditional roasts, friendly service, and a cozy countryside pub atmosphere.
Sebz
11.2 km
Authentic Mediterranean tapas and vibrant wine bar in Gloucester’s historic Northgate Street, blending fresh flavors with a lively atmosphere.
The March Hare
11.3 km
A cozy tearoom in Gloucester’s historic Oxbode offering fresh local fare and friendly service from morning to afternoon.
Tiger's Eye Restaurant
11.5 km
Historic Gloucester’s Tiger's Eye offers interactive Pan-Asian fusion dining with hot rock grilling and a vibrant cocktail bar atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Emporium
2.8 km
Discover unique gifts and a warm welcome at Emporium, Cheltenham’s charming family-run gift shop on Bath Road.
Great British Boutique
3.1 km
Discover unique gifts and quirky homeware in Cheltenham’s welcoming Great British Boutique, where friendly service meets charming finds.
Willow Hilson Vintage
3.5 km
Authentic vintage fashion from the 1920s to 1960s in a charming Cheltenham boutique with artistic flair and photography studio.
Vinegar Hill
3.8 km
Discover Cheltenham’s family-run boutique blending stylish homewares, fashion, and unique gifts in a warm, inviting setting since 1997.
Cotswold Creates
7.2 km
Discover unique artisan gifts and handcrafted treasures that capture the heart of the Cotswolds in Gloucester’s welcoming Cotswold Creates.
King's Walk
11.3 km
Gloucester’s central shopping destination featuring popular high street brands and convenient dining in a lively city centre setting.
Pilgrims Gloucester
11.5 km
Discover unique gifts and a cosy, atmospheric shopping experience in the heart of historic Gloucester.
L&S Lifestyle
11.6 km
Discover unique gifts and stylish finds in a cozy boutique setting at L&S Lifestyle, Gloucester’s charming gift shop on College Street.
Chez Rose
11.8 km
Discover unique gifts and shabby chic treasures in a warm, welcoming boutique nestled in Gloucester’s historic Westgate Street.
Gloucester Quays
11.9 km
Discover designer bargains and festive charm at Gloucester Quays, a lively waterfront outlet set within historic docks.
Gift Company
11.9 km
Discover unique gifts and charming homeware at The Gift Company, nestled in the vibrant Gloucester Quays outlet by the historic docks.
Upstairs Downstairs
12.0 km
Discover Gloucester’s charming antique shop with unique collectibles and a cozy tearoom serving homemade treats.
Westgate Retail Park
12.0 km
Convenient shopping with free parking and a variety of homeware stores in the heart of Gloucester’s Westgate Street.
Just Incase Gifts
12.8 km
Discover unique, quality gifts and local crafts at this warm, family-run shop in the heart of Winchcombe’s charming Cotswold village.
Original House
13.9 km
Discover authentic vintage and industrial furniture treasures in Cirencester’s Original House, a haven for unique statement pieces.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Retreat
3.3 km
A charming Cheltenham wine bar blending historic ambiance with locally sourced cuisine and a relaxed, inviting atmosphere.
Experimental Cocktail Club Cotswolds
4.1 km
Sophisticated cocktails and vibrant DJ nights in the heart of the Cotswolds at Cowley Manor’s stylish Experimental Cocktail Club.
Copa of Cheltenham
4.1 km
Lively pub and restaurant on Regent Street offering great drinks, tasty pub food, and a welcoming atmosphere with live sports and a beer garden.
The Cotswold Inn, Cheltenham.
4.3 km
A lively Cheltenham pub blending traditional charm with vibrant live music and a welcoming local atmosphere.
The Green Dragon Inn Pub & Shop
4.7 km
A historic 17th-century Cotswold inn blending rustic charm, fine dining, and countryside comfort in tranquil Cockleford near Cheltenham.
The Royal Oak, Prestbury
6.1 km
Historic 16th-century pub in Prestbury offering traditional Cotswold charm, seasonal British fare, award-winning ales, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The House in The Tree
7.1 km
A charming and historic English pub in Cheltenham, serving hearty homemade meals in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere with rustic character.
The Gloucester Old Spot
9.1 km
A quintessential English pub in Cheltenham offering hearty modern British fare, rare breed pork specialties, and a warm, inviting atmosphere year-round.
Three Oaks Inn
10.5 km
A welcoming gastropub in Gloucester’s Robinswood, blending traditional charm with modern comfort and community spirit.
England's Glory
10.6 km
A traditional Gloucester pub offering hearty food, the best Guinness, lively events, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
One Eyed Jacks
10.9 km
A vibrant traditional pub in Gloucester blending classic charm with lively entertainment and friendly atmosphere.
Devoted Deluxe - Mobile Bar Hire
10.9 km
Elegant mobile bar hire in Gloucester delivering bespoke cocktails and personalized service for every special occasion.
The Heritage
11.2 km
A welcoming Gloucester bar blending rugby spirit with cozy charm and a diverse drink selection for locals and fans alike.
The Turks Head Inn
11.3 km
A welcoming traditional pub in Gloucester’s heart, famed for its excellent cask ales and friendly local atmosphere.
The Abbey
11.3 km
A vibrant Gloucester bar famed for its bottomless brunch, friendly service, and lively social atmosphere in the city centre.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Under the Prom
3.8 km
Experience Cheltenham’s vibrant nightlife with premium drinks, three unique bars, and VIP service at Under The Prom nightclub.
MooMoo Clubrooms Cheltenham
3.8 km
Experience Cheltenham’s vibrant nightlife with dynamic music, VIP vibes, and late-night energy at MooMoo Clubrooms.
Popworld - Cheltenham
3.9 km
Cheltenham’s lively late-night hotspot where cheesy pop tunes and creative cocktails fuel unforgettable party nights.
Thirteen Degrees
3.9 km
Cheltenham’s late-night hotspot for dancing, cocktails, and private events in a central urban setting.
Home and Botanic Nightclub
3.9 km
Historic charm meets vibrant nightlife at Cheltenham’s Home and Botanic, a multi-room club offering cocktails, live piano, DJs, and unforgettable nights.
The 21 Club
4.0 km
Experience Cheltenham’s vibrant nightlife at The 21 Club, where music, dancing, and great drinks create unforgettable nights.
Coco
4.0 km
Cheltenham’s underground hotspot for vibrant nightlife, top DJs, and creative cocktails in a lively basement setting.
2 PIGS
4.2 km
A lively Cheltenham nightclub with dual rooms spinning rock, punk, indie, and classic hits, known for affordable drinks and an alternative vibe.
ATIK Gloucester
11.0 km
Gloucester’s largest nightclub, ATIK pulses with vibrant music, student nights, and an energetic party atmosphere until the early hours.
Bar Fever Gloucester
11.2 km
Experience Gloucester’s vibrant nightlife at Bar Fever, a trendy nightclub with dynamic music, stylish interiors, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Jax Nightclub Gloucester
11.3 km
Energetic nightclub in Gloucester offering diverse music, two dance floors, and a welcoming atmosphere for late-night fun.
Trio Nightclub
16.3 km
Experience Stroud’s vibrant nightlife at Trio Nightclub, where music, dancing, and energetic vibes light up weekend nights.
ReVA Nightclub
18.1 km
Cirencester’s largest nightclub offering electrifying music, stylish cocktails, and a vibrant atmosphere for unforgettable nights.
Capones
27.6 km
Historic nightclub in Dursley with legendary ties to Al Capone, offering vibrant weekend nightlife and pulsating music.
Venue Five-0 Night Club
37.6 km
Energetic weekend nights and diverse music await at Venue Five-0 Night Club, Royal Wootton Bassett’s lively nightlife hotspot.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Adventurous
- Tranquil
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Viewpoints
- Parks & Gardens
- Industrial
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunrise Spots
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
- Scenic Backdrops
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Nature Reserve
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Myth & Legends
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Requires Hike
- Physically Demanding
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
