Downham Hill, known locally as "Smallpox Hill is an outlying hill from the surrounding Cotswold escarpment, separated by a small valley. It offers perhaps some of the best view in the valley if not the Cotswolds! Due to the physical nature of the hill it lent itself to being a Smallpox isolation hospital during the 18th and 19th century, making it one of the earliest isolation hospitals in the country. It is believed that the hospital played a roll in Edward Jenner’s studies of the disease, and aided his eventual discovery of the Smallpox vaccine.

Dogwood

July 3, 2022

Hiking

Location for a picnic

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Best routes near Downham Hill (Smallpox Hill)

4.4

(20)

hikers

1. Downham Hill & Cam Peak loop

7.13km

02:10

230m

Hike the moderate Downham Hill & Cam Peak loop for 4.4 miles (7.1 km) through varied terrain with panoramic views and steep climbs.

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Moderate

4.8

(6)

hikers

2. Cam Long Down – View from Cam Peak loop from Dursley

17.4km

05:07

460m

Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Hard

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3. Mawdesley's Pond – Downham Hill (Smallpox Hill) loop from Dursley

9.93km

02:44

160m

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Moderate

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Elevation 180 m

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Saturday 14 March

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Take Me There

Location: Uley, Stroud, Gloucestershire, South West England, England, United Kingdom

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Downham Hill (Smallpox Hill)

1. Downham Hill & Cam Peak loop

2. Cam Long Down – View from Cam Peak loop from Dursley

3. Mawdesley's Pond – Downham Hill (Smallpox Hill) loop from Dursley

Other Popular Places to Check Out

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