9 Best Walks in the Cotswolds
Cosy | Country Pubs | Countryside | Dog Friendly | Family | Outdoor Activities | Pub | Pub Accommodation | Short Break | Staycation | Uk Pubs | Walking | Posted 2024.01.18
In this blog we guide you to some of the best walks in the Cotswolds, taking you through stunning hills, ancient woodlands, picturesque villages, and historic monuments.
Nestled in the picturesque South-West of England, the Cotswolds is a beautiful region that spans nearly 800 square miles. Designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, it boasts rolling hills, breathtaking vistas, and abundant wildlife, all framed by charming villages and towns. If you’re wondering how to truly immerse yourself in the magic of the Cotswolds, this walking guide allows you to fully experience the enchantment of the Cotswolds firsthand.
Enhancing the allure of this Cotswolds experience are the inviting pubs scattered throughout the region. These charming chocolate box inns provide a cosy setting for enjoying a refreshing drink and delicious homecooked food.
Continue reading to discover the optimal walking routes and pubs with rooms along the way, ensuring you make the most of your Cotswold’s adventure.
Best Walks in the Cotswolds
1. The Cotswold Way
Covering 102 miles, the Cotswold Way runs between the market town of Chipping Campden and the city of Bath. This scenic journey, spanning 7 to 10 days for most walkers, unveils the beauty of picturesque villages, unspoiled countryside, and ancient landmarks.
Along the way you can see Crickley Hill, where limestone grasslands provide a stunning backdrop overlooking the enchanting Severn Vale. Additionally, do not miss the opportunity to see Haresfield Beacon, a realm of dramatic topography, intimate woodlands, and extensive grasslands.
2. Rollright Stones Walk
From this walk enjoy captivating views of the Rollright Stones amognst the scenic countryside.
The Rollright Stones are a series of limestone monuments dating all the way back to the Neolithic and Bronze ages and can be found close to the Oxfordshire village of Long Compton. Whispering Knights, a single chamber tomb or dolman, was the first monument to be built during the mid-Neolithic period. The King’s Men, the second monument built, is a stone circle built around the beginning of the Bronze Age. The King Stone, a single monolith, is the most recent that is thought to date to the Bronze Age.
3. Woodchester Park and Boathouse Walk
Woodchester Park and Boathouse walk is a scenic circular trail situated near Stonehouse, Gloucestershire. Immerse yourself in the tranquillity of this walk as it guides you around a series of five lakes, nestled amidst woodlands and pastures. Along the way see views of the remains of an 18th and 19th-century landscape park, featuring the striking Victorian mansion known as Woodchester Mansion.
Woodchester Mansion, a remarkable Grade 1 listed Victorian Gothic house, began its construction journey in 1857 and continued evolving into the 1860s. What makes this masterpiece truly unique is its unfinished state, showcasing missing floors and ceilings and unglazed windows. Furthermore adding to the allure of the mansion are the stone carvings in the Mansion, inspired by the plants and animals in the surrounding valley.
4. The Winchcombe Way
The Winchcombe Way is a 42-mile walk taking you in a figure of eight. Revealing the serene charm of tranquil villages, secluded countryside, ancient sites, historic houses, and breathtaking views in Winchcombe.
The eastern loop guides you through the Farmcote valley, leading into Guiting Wood. Taking you through quiet valleys and the peaceful villages of Cutsdean, Taddington, and Snowshill. The trail then follows the Cotswold escarpment through the villages of Buckland, Laverton, and Stanton nestled at the hill’s base. En route, you will pass by Stanway House and Hailes Abbey before returning to Winchcombe.
On the western loop, ascend Langley Hill for panoramic views before descending into Gretton and crossing over to Alderton. The trail then follows Dumbleton Hill and continues to Alstone. Alstone offers you glimpses of the beautiful views of wooded hills seen at the top of Nottingham Hill and onto Cleeve Common, where rare plants and spectacular scenery abound. The journey then takes you to Belas Knap long barrow before descending towards Winchcombe, providing fantastic views of Sudeley Castle.
5. The Blossom Trail
Embark on one of the most enchanting walks in the UK, The Blossom Trail, weaving its way through the picturesque Vale of Evesham. This delightful journey treats you to a spectacle of blossoms, gracing the landscape from mid-March to mid-May. Plum and apple blossoms take centre stage along the Blossom Trail, creating a breathtaking natural canvas.
The orchards come to life with the first appearance of white plum and damson blossoms, creating a captivating early spring panorama. Subsequently, the landscape transforms with the emergence of white pear and pink apple blossoms, depending on the weather.
The Blossom Trail promises a sensory journey through nature’s masterpiece, celebrating the vibrant hues and fragrances that grace this charming corner of the Cotswolds.
6. The Windrush Way
The Windrush Way is a captivating 21.7-kilometer point-to-point trail near Winchcombe, Gloucestershire. Regarded as a challenging route, this trail seamlessly connects the Cotswold Way in Winchcombe to the Oxfordshire Way in Bourton-on-the-Water, leading you over hills adorned with the remnants of ‘lost’ medieval villages before reaching the picturesque River Windrush.
Throughout the journey, traverse rolling hills, catch glimpses of the historic Sudeley Castle, and meander through expansive farmlands and pockets of woodlands. Take in the breathtaking views and be on the lookout for wildlife. The Windrush Way promises an exhilarating and varied journey through the Cotswolds’ diverse landscapes and historical sites.
7. Bibury to Coln St. Aldwyns Circular Walk
This walk starts from Coln St Aldwyns and follows the meandering path alongside the picturesque River Coln, leading you to the charming village of Bibury. Upon reaching Bibury, trace your steps back across higher fields with expansive open views, whilst encountering sheep and cattle. This delightful trail promises a journey through idyllic countryside, adorned with the allure of two exceptionally pretty villages.
Coln Saint Aldwyns, with its roots stretching back to Roman times, is a village steeped in rich history. This village has streets lined with stone cottages, most of which were crafted in the 17th and 18th centuries, offering a glimpse into the past.
Bibury house the iconic row of stone cottages known as Arlington Row. Frequently utilised as filming locations, these cottages also hold the distinction of being featured in UK passports.
8. Rodborough Common butterfly walk
This captivating trail takes you through natural grassy tracks and hillsides leading to Swellshill, where you will have the exciting opportunity to spot over 30 species of butterflies. The steep grassland slopes of Rodborough Common provide an ideal habitat for the Adonis blue and Duke of Burgundy butterflies, along with numerous other captivating species.
The Adonis blue butterfly, making a remarkable return after a 40-year absence, thrives here amidst the diverse array of wildflowers. This scenic route also offers glimpses of other remarkable butterfly species, including the green hairstreak, dingy skipper, marbled white, small blue, and chalkhill blue.
9. Bourton-on-the-Water to Stow-on-the-Wold
This linear walk connects two charming Cotswolds village through a network of well-marked footpath. Spanning just over 4 miles, the trail gracefully descends from the higher village of Stow on the Wold to the tourist destination of Bourton-on-the-Water. Along the way, you will encounter old mills, serene river views, rolling hills, and you can explore the beloved village of Lower Slaughter. This delightful journey promises a seamless blend of Cotswolds charm, captivating landscapes, and the allure of quaint villages.
Cosy Cotswold Pubs with Rooms
The Stump
Find out more and book The Stump
The Colesbourne Inn
If you’re planning a walking holiday in the Cotswolds, this delightful pub is the perfect choice. Boasting character both inside and out, it’s a must-visit destination.
Find out more and book The Colesbourne Inn
The George
Nestled in the heart of Cheltenham, just a short stroll from the town hall and surrounded by numerous shops, cafes, bars, and restaurants, this chic pub is an excellent Cotswold retreat. Featuring a diverse range of bedrooms, you can select the one that makes your stay a memorable experience.
Find out more and book The George
The Amberley Inn
Situated in the southern part of the Cotswolds, The Amberley Inn is a welcoming dog-friendly pub. Indulge in a culinary delight at their award-winning restaurant, presenting a creative menu crafted from the finest Cotswold produce.
Find out more and book The Amberley Inn
Sheep on sheep street
Nestled in Stow-on-the-Wold, The Sheep on Sheep Street is a charming pub, making it the perfect home base for your Cotswold adventure. With its fantastic location and delightful interior, this pub is a must-visit for your stay.
Find out more and book The Sheep on Sheep Street
The Frogmill
The Frogmill is an acclaimed dog-friendly pub, honoured with the “Pub of the Year 2022” title at the National Pub & Bar Awards. Every aspect of this pub, from its inviting outdoor seating to its snug bar and cozy bedrooms, reflects the charm of the Cotswolds.
Find out more and book The Frogmill
The Wheatsheaf Inn
The Wheatsheaf Inn, a 17th-century coaching inn stands out as an excellent Cotswold pub choice. With 14 stylish, elegant, and welcoming en-suite bedrooms, delicious cusine, and a snug atmosphere, the pub is a charming retreat.
Find out more and book The Wheatsheaf Inn
Written by Issy Matthews
