Enjoy miles of walking trails through Wytham Woods near Oxford.

There are 1,000 acres to explore on a network of footpaths.

The woods are owned by Oxford University and are open to the public by obtaining a free permit for walking but are closed to dogs, horses and bicycles.

Wytham Woods are one of the most researched areas of woodland in the world.

Research includes projects on climate change, blue and great tits, badgers and bats.

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Inspector Morse fans will recall references to the woods in Colin Dexter’s novel, The Way Through the Woods, which was made into an episode of the ITV drama starring John Thaw.

You can start your walk from the car park at the eastern end of the woods, near the Keeper’s cottage.

Then pick up the paths heading west before exploring the southern part of the site.

There’s attractive mixed woodland and lots of wildlife to look out for on the way, including badgers and woodland birds.

Wytham Woods form an iconic location that has been the subject of continuous ecological research programmes, many dating back to the 1940s. The estate has been owned and maintained by Oxford Unuversity since 1942.

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The wooded parts of the Wytham Estate comprise ancient semi-natural woodland (dating to the last Ice Age), secondary woodland (dating to the seventeenth century), and modern plantations (1950s and 60s).

The fourth key habitat is the limestone grassland found at the top of the hill. Other smaller habitats include a valley-side mire and a series of ponds.

The site is rich in flora and fauna, with over 500 species of plants, a wealth of woodland habitats, and 800 species of butterflies and moths.

Wytham Woods are often quoted as being one of the most researched pieces of woodland in the world. Covering 1000 acres, they are designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest.

The woods are located just to the east of the Thames Path.

You could combine your walk with a visit to the village’s White Hart pub, which is popular with foodies.

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The 18th century gastropub is a popular destination for diners from outside the village.

The area around the pub was used as a location for a memorable scene in Mamma Mia 2: Here We Go Again, with Lily James leading cyclists through the village.

The scene was one of a number which were filmed in various locations across Oxford.

You could pick up the riverside trail and head south to Farmoor Reservoir to extend your walk.

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Heading the other way along the river will soon take you to Port Meadow.

The Oxford Green Belt Way also skirts the northern edge of the woods.

The long distance trail will take you through countryside around Oxford.