Five Unmissable Walks in The Cotswolds
Renowned for its stunning landscapes, charming villages, and picturesque walking trails, the Cotswolds is a must-visit if you are planning a walking holiday. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a leisurely stroller, there's a walk to suit your preferences just waiting to be discovered. From short one-hour wanders to half-day explorations, here are our top five walks in the Cotswolds.
Snowshill and Broadway Tower (1-2 hours, Easy)
Starting in the picturesque village of Snowshill, follow the footpath that heads North out towards Broadway. As you make your way through the countryside, take a moment to relish the gentle breeze and the panoramic views of the surrounding hills.
After a leisurely walk of approximately 30 minutes, you'll reach the crowning jewel of this route: Broadway Tower. This iconic historic folly, perched on top of Beacon Hill, offers a breath-taking 360-degree view of the Cotswold countryside. On clear days, you can even see as far as the Welsh mountains. Take your time to explore the tower, learn about its history, and soak in the beautiful views. There’s also a lovely coffee shop at the bottom of the tower, making it an ideal half way point to take a break.
To complete the walk, retrace your steps back to Snowshill, or for a slightly different return journey, take an alternative route through quiet country lanes, passing by charming farms and fields.
Moreton-in-Marsh to Longborough (1-2 hours, Easy)
Start your walk in the centre of Moreton-in-Marsh, a charming market town with a bustling High Street. Follow the footpath South out of town, immersing yourself in the picturesque countryside with rolling hills, meadows and golden stone cottages.
After about 30 minutes, you will reach the quaint village of Longborough, known for its traditional cottages and the renowned Longborough Festival Opera. Take a moment to appreciate the tranquility of the Cotswold countryside and enjoy a packed lunch or a short break, before continuing your journey back to Moreton-in-Marsh.
On your way back, take a different route and follow the banks of the meandering River Evenlode. Watch out for the dragonflies skimming the flowing river and, if you’re lucky, you might even spot a fish or two!
Chipping Campden to Dover's Hill (2-3 hours, Moderate)
For a moderately challenging walk, start at the picturesque market town of Chipping Campden and head to the scenic Dover's Hill. Begin your journey by strolling along the historic High Street, lined with impressive medieval buildings crafted from the renowned Cotswold stone.
As you leave the town behind, the landscape opens up to rolling meadows and lush fields. Follow the footpath that winds through farmland, enjoying the gentle ascent as you make your way towards the crest of Dover's Hill.
The climb rewards you with captivating panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, including the Vale of Evesham and the distant Malvern Hills. At the summit, take a moment to catch your breath and appreciate the natural beauty before descending back to Chipping Campden.
This route combines history, natural beauty, and a touch of exertion, making it a perfect choice for a half-day adventure.
Bourton-on-the-Water and The Slaughters (4-5 hours, Moderate to Difficult)
This picturesque walk begins in the enchanting village of Bourton-on-the-Water, often referred to as the "Venice of the Cotswolds”. Start in the centre of Bourton-on-the-Water and head West out of the village along the bank of the Windrush River, crossing over its iconic stone bridges.
As you follow the well-worn footpath, the scenery transitions to open fields and rolling hills. The path will lead you to the idyllic village of Lower Slaughter, where you'll encounter a quaint water mill and more captivating vistas. Stroll along the tranquil streets, appreciating the tranquil ambiance that pervades this idyllic village.
From here, continue your journey North West to the neighbouring Upper Slaughter, characterized by its golden stone houses and the peaceful River Eye flowing through its heart. Take a moment to explore the village, capturing postcard-worthy images and immersing yourself in its timeless charm.
To return to Bourton-on-the-Water, retrace your steps or take a slightly different route, following one of the many other footpaths that meander through meadows and fields.
Broadway and The Cotswold Way (Half Day, Difficult)
For avid walkers seeking a more demanding expedition, the Broadway and Cotswold Way route offers a gratifying challenge. Start your walk in Broadway, a charming town known as the "Jewel of the Cotswolds" with plenty of charming buildings and a vibrant arts scene. From here, join the Cotswold Way heading to Broadway Tower, a long-distance footpath that stretches over 100 miles.
The path will lead you through woodlands, open fields and along the rolling Cotswold hills. Marvel at the diverse flora and fauna that grace the landscape and keep an eye out for local wildlife that may cross your path. You’ll often find Red Kites circling overhead and muntjac deer hiding in bushes if you look closely.
The challenging nature of this walk lies in its hilly terrain and longer duration, making it ideal for experienced hikers seeking a more demanding adventure. Take your time, enjoy the tranquility, and allow the beauty of the Cotswolds to captivate you as you conquer this remarkable trail.