Clare Ciruclar Walks – Click for exploded view.
The Park is the starting point for a range of scenic circular walks from 2 to 7 miles long. Each walk has a distinct character and offers lovely views of Clare and its surroundings. Brief summaries are given below.
The walks are all rated as intermediate because there are occasional stiles to climb or cultivated fields to cross.
Walks leaflets are available from the visitor centre and cafe. They can also be downloaded below.
The Clare Loop
The Clare Loop has the town of Clare at its centre. It is the perfect introduction to the rolling hills of West Suffolk, from which there are fine views of the town. The walk can be done as a short loop of 2 miles or a longer walk of 4.5 miles.
Houghton Hall
This 5 mile walk takes in views over the Stour Valley, turns north into a rolling landscape where deer and hare are frequently encountered, has wide views over the Suffolk Heights and descends back to Clare along the Bury to Clare Path.
Cavendish
This 7 mile walk comprises a long leg east along the valley floor to the pretty village of Cavendish, essentially following the course of the River Stour, followed by a return leg west on the Stour Valley Path. The views of the Stour Valley on the return leg are sublime.
Long Lane
This 4.5 mile walk takes you south across the Essex border. You will walk past the remains of the old Mill and across the Mill Meadows, then up an ancient drovers’ road. The descent back into Clare affords beautiful views of the town, church and castle.
Claret Hall
The first half of this 4.5 mile walk follows the Stour Valley Path up and along the shoulder of higher ground to the south of the Stour before descending to the river. From there, it returns to Clare via gently rising land near Ovington before descending to the valley floor once more.
Chilton Street
This 4.5 mile walk starts off along the River Stour and then follows a very rural path past the Upper Common, across arable land and back down to Chilton Street. There is a footpath alongside the road that leads you back through the town of Clare.