Stage 3 from Wood Stanway to Winchcombe - a steep climb to the ridge, Beckbury Camp, Hailes Abbey ruins, and a welcoming finish in town with pubs, shops, and accommodation. Full distance and terrain for your walk.
Stage 3The day begins with a sharp climb from Wood Stanway to high ground on the escarpment, opening views across the Vale of Evesham toward the Malvern Hills. After Beckbury Camp the route descends through fields toward Hailes Abbey, the ruins of a Cistercian monastery founded in 1246 and dissolved during the Reformation. The abbey lies a short distance from the main path and is one of the principal historical sites on the northern section of the trail.
From Hailes the route continues into Winchcombe via Puckpit Lane. Winchcombe is a market town with a well-preserved historic centre, independent shops, pubs, and accommodation. Sudeley Castle, with more than 1,200 years of recorded history and former connections to Katherine Parr, lies just outside the town and can be visited on a rest day or short diversion.
Carry a map and offline route - see our Maps and navigation page for guidebooks and apps. For overnight stops near Winchcombe, browse accommodation in Winchcombe. Cafes and pubs for this section are listed on our Food & Drink page.
Places to stay after finishing this stage - browse more in Winchcombe.
