Arlington Court Loop

Route Description for Arlington Court Loop

Overall, the Arlington Court Loop is a fairly laid back and accessible walking route; however, there are a few steep inclines that will require a small amount of effort. These areas can also become quite muddy and slippery after a good rainfall, so be sure to wear proper walking footwear for this adventure. Additionally, some of the areas surrounding the main house will require a fee, as Arlington Court is operated by the National Trust. If you aren’t looking to explore these areas and simply want to spend a few hours on the trails, be sure to keep to the public bridleways.

Thanks to a beautiful mix of terrain that includes peaceful stretches of woodland, open parklands, charming lakes, and winding rivers, the Arlington Court Loop really does make for an exceptional day outdoors. In addition to the beautifully scenic views of nature, this route also has the added bonus of allowing walkers to explore the estate and the antique belongings of the Chichester family that have historically called this place home, something that will definitely appeal to history lovers. Regardless of your reasoning for exploring this wonderful trail, you can be sure that your time here will be time well spent.

Setting out from the car park, you will head south through the tree cover along the footpath until you meet up with a wide track in front of the main house. Keep right here to follow the track as heads downhill and bends to the northwest. As you descend further downhill through the peaceful woodland setting, you will eventually begin to walk parallel to the River Yeo to a point where it widens. Here, you will cross over the river and continue to the southwest along the opposite bank.

After crossing the river, keep the edge of the water on your left for the next 0.9 km, where you will come to another crossing at Tucker’s Bridge. Make your way to the opposite side and keep left for 0.9 km to pass through Deerpark Wood and cross over a stream on your left. Keeping left along the path, you will work your way uphill through the grounds of the estate for the next 0.9 km, eventually meeting up with the edge of the road next to the carriage house. Turn left here, followed by another left in 52 m to pass by the carriage house and Church of Saint James. A quick jaunt along the road here will bring you back to the starting point of the walk, where you can choose to further explore the historic buildings of Arlington Court or head back to your vehicle to wrap up your day.

Trail Highlights

Arlington Court

Built between 1820-1823, Arlington Court is a neoclassical style country house that was commissioned by Colonel John Palmer Chichester. Today, the house is fully open to the public, offering the chance to view the grounds and structure, as well as the Chichester family’s collection of antiques and memorabilia.

Insider Hints for Arlington Court Loop

• Some portions of this walk are steep and can be fairly muddy. Make sure to wear good walking footwear.
• If you are travelling with a dog, remember to keep them on a lead.
• Toilet facilities can be found near the starting point of the walk at Arlington Court.
• If you need some refreshments at the beginning or end of your walk, check out the tea rooms at the house.