Enjoy a Countryside Stroll
One of the best parts of a countryside stay is the simple pleasure of a good walk. The OS Maps app is a fantastic tool to help you find your way.
Have you used OS Maps?
As a family, we all use OS Maps! Charles (Dad aka Charlie Baker)—who many of you may have met—has been spending more time riding since retiring from our agricultural contracting business, which was previously run from the farm (find out more about that here). He uses OS Maps to plan his hacks, whether riding locally or venturing further afield.
After completing the London to Brighton bike ride last September, I (Jennie) have also been using OS Maps to train on my bike. You can check out a couple of routes from Spring Hill Farm on the app—my routes always include a café stop (got to stay fuelled, or at least that’s what I tell myself! Check out this great route from Spring Hill Farm which has not one but 3 cafes to visit! - The Grain Store Cafe, The Cotswold Guy and Quince and Clover). This year (September 2025), I’m taking on a new challenge: cycling from London to Paris. Wish me luck! I think I might have lost my mind, but since I was already fit from London to Brighton, I figured—why not? - take a look at my JustGiving page to read a bit more about our local hospice, Katharine House and why I'm raising money for them. Cycling has also been a win-win for me. It helps during busy times on the campsite, boosts my mental health, and reduces my environmental impact— when I can, I now bike seven miles to work instead of driving!
Mary (Mum aka Mary Baker)—who many of you will have met when staying with us—loves walking and often uses OS Maps to find new routes. My brothers, Chris and Stephen, both use the app for running too.
Discover the Joy of Countryside Walks
Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a casual stroller, one of the simplest and best things to do when staying in the countryside is the simple pleasure of a good walk and the OS Maps app can be your perfect companion. Packed with route suggestions, it helps you uncover scenic paths, historic trails, and hidden spots that make every walk a unique adventure. With its extensive library of pre-planned routes, you’ll always find inspiration, whether you're planning a short stroll or a challenging trek. You can also use the app to map your own adventures and share with others.
Plan Your Perfect Day Out
A countryside walk is even better when paired with other treats! You could start your day at a cosy café—why not visit one of our locals? One of our current favourites is The Cotswold Guy. If you’re up for a challenge, you could walk there, or for a more relaxed start, drive over and enjoy a coffee (and maybe one of their famous sausage rolls—rumour has it they’re David Beckham’s favourites!). Afterwards, use OS Maps to find a nearby walking route and make the most of your day in the countryside.
Make a Walking Adventure with Us at Spring Hill Farm
Why not turn your countryside walk into an overnight adventure? We offer luxury stays in our shepherd’s huts, complete with a hot tub—perfect for soaking your feet after a long walk. Imagine unwinding under a blanket of stars, surrounded by frost-kissed fields, in one of the few places where light pollution won’t dim the beauty of the night sky. When the weather warms up, you can also stay in our camping field—bring your own tent or hire one of our beautiful bell tents for a cosy and memorable experience.
Walking and Wellbeing
Walking isn’t just great for your body—it’s a boost for the mind too. The crisp air, being out in the countryside, and the simple rhythm of each step can bring a sense of clarity and calm. This year, why not make it a goal to enjoy more countryside walks?