Why go
- Peaceful riverside scenery alongside the River Avon with abundant willow beds and wildlife.
- Flat and easy terrain suitable for families, dog walkers and all fitness levels.
- Historic medieval bridge and charming village setting linked to Shakespeare connections.
- Circular route through Big Meadow, a 26-acre recreational park with picnic facilities.
- Excellent access to riverside pubs and village amenities after your walk.
Full route
- Start from Big Meadow car park off Honeybourne Road and head to the riverside path.
- Follow the riverside path north through Big Meadow alongside the River Avon.
- Continue along farm fields and meadow paths heading towards Marlcliff village.
- Enter Marlcliff village and retrace your steps back to the riverside path.
- Follow the Avon Valley Footpath south back alongside the river.
- Return to Big Meadow car park, completing the circular route.
A straightforward 26-acre riverside loop through Big Meadow with the medieval bridge at its heart and free parking from Honeybourne Road.
This delightful circular walk follows the River Avon from the car park near Honeybourne Road, taking you through the 26-acre Big Meadow park with pleasant riverside paths. The route passes through charming countryside, with opportunities to spot local wildlife along the riverbanks. The medieval bridge at the village centre dates from the 15th century and offers picturesque photo opportunities. After your walk, the village has several riverside pubs and local amenities nearby.
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Reviews
Convenient and nice enough space by a clean river for swimming and paddle boarding. It does get very busy. Any sense of being out in the country can be lost to the sound of merry making from playful families and rowdy adults. There are quieter and prettier river spots around.
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FAQ
Is the walk free to do?
Yes, the Bidford-on-Avon Riverside Walk is completely free to access.
Is there parking available?
There is a car park near the start of the walk on Honeybourne Road, though multiple recent visitor reviews report paid parking charges (around £3 for two hours, £6 for the day) rather than free parking, plus a card-only payment machine. Check the signage on arrival for current charges.
How long is the walk?
The walk is a circular route through the 26-acre Big Meadow park, though the exact distance is not specified, it is described as a gentle, leisurely route suitable for most abilities.
Can I bring my dog?
Dogs are commonly seen on this riverside walk, though an official pet policy is not confirmed. Please clean up after your dog, as this has been a concern raised by other visitors.
Is the walk suitable for families with children?
Yes, the route is family friendly and follows gentle riverside paths, making it accessible for children and those looking for a relaxed walk.
Are there toilets along the route?
Toilet facilities on the route are not confirmed. The nearby village of Bidford-on-Avon has amenities close by if needed.
Are there places to eat or drink nearby after the walk?
Yes, the village of Bidford-on-Avon has several riverside pubs and local amenities close to the walk, so you can easily stop for refreshments afterwards.
Trail details
Sections can become muddy after heavy rain; best visited April to September when riverside toilets are open.
Getting there
Routes
- Start from Big Meadow car park off Honeybourne Road and head to the riverside path.
- Follow the riverside path north through Big Meadow alongside the River Avon.
- Continue along farm fields and meadow paths heading towards Marlcliff village.
- Enter Marlcliff village and retrace your steps back to the riverside path.
- Follow the Avon Valley Footpath south back alongside the river.
- Return to Big Meadow car park, completing the circular route.
Facilities nearby
Business Info
- Honeybourne Road, Bidford-on-Avon
Features
Videos
@northdevonjules
@theinstatravelguide
@dawnmylifeincowboyboots
Tips (0)
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Reviews 4.6 · 5 reviews
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Posted on Google
Convenient and nice enough space by a clean river for swimming and paddle boarding. It does get very busy. Any sense of being out in the country can be lost to the sound of merry making from playful families and rowdy adults. There are quieter and prettier river spots around.
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Posted on Google
Great day out here. Parking £6.20 all day. Toilets, play area and access to the river. Benches for picnics and plenty of parking. Local.area has a few pubs and shops for food and snacks
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Posted on Google
Lovely park for the kids. Reasonable parking costs £6 for all day. Very clean, well looked after and playground fully working and safe. Shop / chippy / pub over the bridge.
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Posted on Google
Lovely river side setting, we use this spot as it's got lots of places to set off for kayaking. Big play park for kids and toilets on the site. Ample parking for £3 a day. Pub, restaurant and shop on the opposite side of the river bank, which is easily accessible across the bridge. Can get very busy on nice days.
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Posted on Google
Beautifully kept area where families can enjoy time by the river. Plenty of tables, bins, including recycling bins, raised metal areas to put a BBQ and access to the river. Lovely moorings for boats too. A shop just across the bridge for refreshments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the walk free to do?
Yes, the Bidford-on-Avon Riverside Walk is completely free to access.
Is there parking available?
There is a car park near the start of the walk on Honeybourne Road, though multiple recent visitor reviews report paid parking charges (around £3 for two hours, £6 for the day) rather than free parking, plus a card-only payment machine. Check the signage on arrival for current charges.
How long is the walk?
The walk is a circular route through the 26-acre Big Meadow park, though the exact distance is not specified, it is described as a gentle, leisurely route suitable for most abilities.
Can I bring my dog?
Dogs are commonly seen on this riverside walk, though an official pet policy is not confirmed. Please clean up after your dog, as this has been a concern raised by other visitors.
Is the walk suitable for families with children?
Yes, the route is family friendly and follows gentle riverside paths, making it accessible for children and those looking for a relaxed walk.
Are there toilets along the route?
Toilet facilities on the route are not confirmed. The nearby village of Bidford-on-Avon has amenities close by if needed.
Are there places to eat or drink nearby after the walk?
Yes, the village of Bidford-on-Avon has several riverside pubs and local amenities close to the walk, so you can easily stop for refreshments afterwards.