An Iron Age hillfort and limestone grassland nature reserve on the escarpment near Birdlip, with wide Severn Vale views - passed on Stage 7 of the Cotswold Way.
Crickley Hill crowns the Cotswold escarpment between Cheltenham and Birdlip, a mix of limestone grassland, scrub, and beech woodland with long views over the Severn Vale. The hill carries the earthworks of an Iron Age hillfort and earlier settlement, and the site is a Site of Special Scientific Interest for its wildflowers and geology. On a clear day the outlook takes in Gloucester, the Vale, and the Welsh hills beyond.
The Cotswold Way crosses the reserve on Stage 7 between Leckhampton and Birdlip, so most through-walkers pass the scarp edge without needing a diversion. Extra circular trails explore The Scrubbs woodland and the grassland; accessible paths and a visitor hub sit near the upper car park and café. South of the hill the trail continues toward Barrow Wake - take care crossing the busy A417.
The National Trust and Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust share care of the land. Entry on foot is free; parking is charged and managed by the Wildlife Trust, with seasonal car-park gate times. Dogs must be on short leads on open-access land between March and July to protect ground-nesting birds. Practical notes are on the National Trust Crickley Hill page and the Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust reserve page. The address is near Birdlip, Gloucestershire, GL4 8JY.
