Coming Up for Air! (Discovering George Orwell)
Reading Walks Festival 2025
A journey of discovery in the footsteps of a young George Orwell (Eric Blair) and through his lost 'Golden Country'.
Type of walk
Exercise - a healthy walk with some stopping points of interest. More walking/less talking
More detail
Join us as we walk through George Orwell's 'Golden Country'. Along the way we hint at various aspects of Orwell's life and work, share his interest in natural history, and reveal how his childhood here in the countryside around Henley may have influenced some of his writing. 2025 marks 75 years since Orwell's death and his works remain ever popular. We start our walk from Shiplake Station along the Thames Path National Trail. The river is where the young Orwell (Eric Blair) loved to fish. We then head up the hill towards Binfield Heath and through bluebell woods where 1984 hero Winston would go to escape the Thought Police. Returning to Shiplake, we pass the house where Orwell once lived. Our route follows well used paths and tracks which may by rough and muddy in part. There are two steep but short hills to climb and a total ascent/descent of 85 meters. We do not allow dogs on this walk, sorry!
Bring food and drink for personal consumption during the walk. We will take a short 'picnic' break mid-way. Village shop and pub (Baskerville Arms) in Shiplake at start/end of walk. Walkers should dress appropriately for a walk in the countryside. Walking boots/shoes - some paths rough and may be muddy. Bring waterproofs in case of rain, and a spare warm layer.
Walk length / difficulty / accessibility
12km, 4.5 hours / Harder - longer walk / not wheelchair accessible / not family friendly
Ticket price
£13
About the walk leader
Philippa Sanders of Pipsticks Walks is an experienced outdoor guide who is passionate about the Chilterns. Join her on this walk and receive a unique rewarding experience. Pipsticks Walks offers guided walks, Nordic walks, team walks and navigation training. Programmed activities and bespoke services available more than just a walk!