(S/E) This walk uses a section of the Thames Path before turning away from the river to cross hills offering views across the outward route. The start is The Flowing Spring where parking is possible for those using the pub (grid ref. SU746767).
After parking exit the car park onto the A415 and turn right, taking the first lane almost immediately on the right. This is Spring Lane which for part of its length has a footpath running parallel to the road. Continue along the lane to reach the B478 (grid ref. SU7487610). Cross over this road with care and take the minor road opposite. Follow this through the outskirts of Sonning Eye. Follow the road as it bends left and then in a few metres take the signed footpath on the right. This leads down to the river and returns to the B478.
(1) Turn right along the B478 and continue for 200 metres crossing a branch of the Thames. Turn left onto the Thame Path (grid ref. SU754757) crossing a footbridge to reach the west bank of the river. You now follow the Thames Path as it meanders alongside the Thames for about two miles passing the islands of Hallsmead Ait and The Lynch. At grid ref. SU768781, just before Shiplake College, leave the Thames Path and bear left along a track. Follow this around to the right and continue ahead to reach the A4155 (grid ref. SU765783). Here bear left and then take the leading off to the right.
(2) Continue along this road for 300 metres to take the footpath on your left which initially follows the access road to Shiplakecourt Farm. Continue ahead along a track where the access road turns left and follow the path across fields to reach a cross track (grid ref. SU753781). Go straight across on the continuation of the right of way crossing a field to Shiplake Copse. Here the route joins a track which continues to meet a road (grid ref. SU743781).
(3) Turn left along the road passing a church on your right. Where the road bends gently to the right (grid ref. SU743778) take the track and signed footpath on your left. After 250 metres at the junction of tracks (grid ref. SU743776) continue ahead a less distinct track that leads in 800 metres back to the A4155 (grid ref. SU747769). Turn right along this main road and the start of the walk is a short distance away on your left (S/E).
