These pages show the route of the Oxford to Reading section of the National Cycle Network (NCN) Route 5. Route 5 actually starts in London, and from Oxford it continues via Stratford-Upon-Avon to Birmingham where it meets a number of other NCN routes. For information on the whole network, include detailed on-line mapping, see Sustrans' National Cycle Network web site.
A local route information leaflet, with map, for the Oxford to Didcot section of Route 5 is now available from Sustrans. A PDF of the leaflet can be downloaded from the Sustrans website.
New (July 2004) For a description of the Oxford to Didcot route with photographs, see Richard Cooper's My Journey home.
The NCN uses a mixture of quiet roads and off-road paths, with traffic calming and safe crossing facilities used where it meets busy traffic. The route is identified by cycle route signs carrying the number 5 in white text on a red background.
Route maps and descriptions
The maps on the following pages are based upon Ordnance Survey 1:250 000 road maps and are not intended to provide full details of the route. A detailed map of the Thames Valley Route is available from Sustrans; one of a series of OS-based maps of the whole National Cycle Network. The Ordnance Survey 1:50 000 and 1:25 000 series maps are also very helpful; particularly if you are planning a trip that involves sections away from the NCN.
1. Oxford to Didcot via Radley, Abingdon and Sutton Courtenay
2. Didcot to Reading via Long Wittenham, Wallingford and Stoke Row
Rail services
The NCN passes Oxford, Radley, Didcot and Reading railway stations. All stations are served by Thames Trains, which carries bicycles free of charge, but with peak time restrictions. Oxford, Didcot and Reading are also served by Gt Western and Virgin Trains inter-city services which carry bicycles for a fee, but permit reservations.
For national timetable information go to Railtrack's on
line journey planner.