If you’re looking for a private vacation in England’s famous Cotswolds regionwith stays in truly lovely, high-class hotels, this self-guided adventure is for you! Enjoy the flexibility to explore at your own pace—strolling expertly planned walking routes through wildflower meadows on public footpaths accompanied by only flocks of sheep, grazing horses, and the companion of your choice. Some days, you’ll walk from inn to superb inn—guided by our audio navigation smartphone app with detailed route notes to point you towards the best spot for a panoramic photo, picturesque pubs offering authentic English lager, and the perfect rose-trimmed tearoom to relax and enjoy a cream tea. Best of all, each night you’ll come home to charming English hotels dripping with history, high-end amenities, and quintessential British character.
Stroll a bucolic landscape of rolling meadows, sheep-dotted pastures, and tranquil forests straight out of a fairy tale.
Stay in quaint country inns and converted manors brimming with English charm and surrounded by beautiful gardens.
Follow some of England’s most renowned walking trails including the hilly Cotswold Way, the gentle Heart of England Way, and the historic Monarch’s Way.
Admire the graceful Regency architecture of Cheltenham, known at the “Western Gateway to the Coldswolds” and the cultural capital of Gloucestershire County.
Explore the enchanting grounds of the beautifully preserved Sudeley Castle & Gardens, resting place of Katherine Parr, the sixth wife of Henry VIII.
Positive Impact
Country Walkers is proud to support The Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty with a donation on behalf of each guest on this tour. The Cotswolds is the largest recognized Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in England. These countryside areas are a family of protected natural parks and landscapes designated for conservation. The Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty works toward upkeeping the Cotswold Way National Trail, creating wildflower-rich Grasslands, and leading tree planting and biodiversity enhancement projects.
On all Self-Guided Adventures you can count on...
A local representative available 24/7
Detailed maps & route notes featuring turn-by-turn directions and places of interest
Delicious meals—many are included
Scheduled taxi transfers to bring you to and from each day’s walks (excluding self-drive adventures)
Gracious accommodations that are a clean, comfortable home away from home
Experts to handle all the details, including moving your luggage between hotels while you’re out exploring
Access to a Self-Guided Flight Concierge—ask our knowledgeable team to find flights that sync with your planned trip
Terrain Description for England: The Cotswolds
This tour is one of our Self-Guided Walking Adventures, rated easy to moderate, with an average of 7 to 10 miles per day. While walks typically are not able to be shortened, it is possible to travel with your luggage to your next accommodation on any given day (included in the price of the tour). There are daily ascents and descents, with a maximum elevation gain of 850 feet. Most of the hills are gradual as opposed to short and steep. The terrain includes narrow gravel roads, springy turf, packed dirt trails, and a few stretches of loose gravel. This itinerary offers full days of walking through the quintessential English countryside of quaint villages, with cream-colored cottages and beautiful gardens, as well as historical castles, a Roman road, and medieval churches. As many walks bring you through open pastures (muddy when wet!) and constantly evolving farmland, it’s important to be comfortable around livestock (sheep, cows, horses) and helpful to remain attentive; some navigation skills and a sense of adventure may come in handy as well. Remember: preparation is the key to ensuring your tour readiness; the more you walk or participate in aerobic exercise prior to your trip, the more you will enjoy your experience!
Miles and Elevation for England: The Cotswolds
Summary of the activity level of the tour England: The Cotswolds
, broken down by day and available options.
Tour Day
Choose Your Route Options
Miles per Option
Hours per Option**
Elevation per Option***
Activity Level
2
Walk
9.3
04:00
+650/-650
moderate
3
Walk
9.6
04:00
+750
moderate
4
Walk
7.1
03:00
+800/-850
easy-moderate
5
ShortLong
5.47.9
02:3003:30
easy-moderateeasy-moderate
6
Walk
6.8
03:30
easy-moderate
Alternate options may be available. **Route mileage, hours, and elevation gain/loss are all approximate ***Elevation gain/loss indicated if greater than 500 feet
Upon arrival at Heathrow Airport, make your own independent travel arrangements to Cheltenham in the County of Gloucestershire. For details, refer to your Vacation Preparation Handbook. This cultural capital of the fabled Cotswolds exudes an air of refinement, adorned with neatly tended green spaces and gracious Regency architecture dressed in ironwork, balconies, and verandahs. In the 18th century, aristocrats, including Jane Austen, flocked here with the same fervor with which they retreated to Bath—to “take the waters” of its many spas.
Spend the day as you wish, perhaps warming up for your walking days with a stroll along Cheltenham’s leafy promenade or browsing the fine-art collections of The Wilson Museum & Art Gallery. You meet your local Country Walkers representative this evening at 5:00 p.m. for an Orientation Meeting at the hotel. Dinner is on your own tonight at one of Cheltenham’s many fine restaurants.
9.3 miles, moderate, 650-ft. elevation gain and loss
After breakfast, a taxi ride of about a half hour delivers you to the 10th-century Sudeley Castle & Gardens, gracefully set against the quiet dignity of the Cotswolds hills on the outskirts of the ancient Saxon capital of Winchcombe. One of England’s most enchanting old estates, this is the final resting place of Queen Katherine Parr, the sixth wife of Henry VIII. There’ll be time to visit the property and stroll among its 10 award-winning gardens (we’ve already paid your entrance fee). Perhaps stop by the Pheasantry to admire its collection of 16 rare bird species, all bred and conserved here. Later, set off on the day’s walk to your next hotel.
You follow the Cotswold Way and an ancient pilgrims’ route to the eerie ruined arches of Hailes Abbey, once a sprawling complex that lured pilgrims by falsely claiming it held a vial of Holy Blood. From here, it’s a gentle climb up to the Iron Age Fortress at Beckbury Camp for superb valley views. After passing Stanway House’s magnificent gatehouse and tithe barn, perhaps enjoy a pub lunch in Stanton, and then amble through open meadows to charming Broadway, referred to as the “Jewel in the Cotswold Crown,” with its picturesque tree-lined High Street. You can seek out St. Eadburgha’s Church, hidden away on Snowshill Road. The village’s honey-colored limestone buildings and garden-lined streets were an inspiration to many artists and writers, such as J.M. Barrie and John Singer Sargent. After time to explore, you are transported about 10 minutes to your hotel for the next two nights, nestled among the hills on a country lane.
This evening, savor a relaxed dinner onsite—expect wholesome, hearty dishes like meltingly tender, slow-cooked pork belly, freshly caught fish, and locally sourced steaks with a heap of dripping chips. Throughout your Country Walkers Self-Guided Adventure, you can forget everything you’ve heard about English cuisine being bland. Far from the traditions of old, you will enjoy an exciting blend of fresh garden flavors and meats from local farms, infused with international flair, bright color, and the creativity of modern chefs.
9.6 miles, moderate, 700-ft. elevation gain and 500-ft. elevation loss
Enjoy a hearty breakfast this morning of eggs, kippers, poached haddock, juices, and continental favorites. On your way out, retrieve your included packed lunch with a sandwich of your choice, chips, seasonal fruit, fruit juice, and cake of the day to keep you fueled. You begin the day’s invigorating walk at Hidcote Gardens, which you may visit at your own expense if you wish. Its maze of paved pathways leads to outdoor “rooms,” splendid panoramas, and endless surprises, all designed by American horticulturist Major Lawrence Johnston.
From the gardens, set off on foot below the Worcestershire Hills to Chipping Campden, a charming old market town once famous for its wool trade, making the Cotswolds an important stop for merchants from London to Florence as they sought material for their clothing, tapestries, and more. The Grevel House, home to a renowned wool merchant, is on High Street. Today, Chipping Campden remains a thriving market town, home to fine buildings of every style from the 14th to the 17th centuries, a covered market, the “wool church” of St. James, and a silversmith. Take time to drink in this handsome little village with its long, gently curving main street.
Continue along the Cotswold Way on a gentle ascent toward the hotel. A short detour leads to Broadway Tower, the 18th-century folly inspired by Capability Brown, where you’re rewarded with stunning, unspoiled views. Located 1,024 feet atop Fish Hill, the tower is the second-highest point in the Cotswolds; it is said that in good weather, 13 counties can be seen from here. The tower was built to satisfy a countess’s whim, and was later the home of William Morris, a 19th-century poet, painter, and social reformer. Return to your hotel for another unforgettable evening in luxury, sampling more restaurant fare on your own. You might use the spa facilities, included in your stay, perhaps indulging in one of its soothing treatments at your own expense.
7.1 miles, easy to moderate, 800-ft. elevation gain and 850-ft. elevation loss
Taxi to Chipping Campden after another glorious breakfast. Then follow the farm fields and dirt tracks of the Heart of England Way, the celebrated trail that traverses the midlands of the country. Your first destination is Broad Campden, a quiet, picturesque village of thatched cottages nestled in the rolling countryside. You’re sure to pass grazing sheep and babbling streams as you approach the charming hamlet. Its cottages along High Street and its parish church are built from the lovely and distinctive golden Cotswold stone. The Quaker Meeting House is the oldest in the country, constructed in 1663.
Continue to the pretty village of Blockley, called a “best-kept secret” of the Cotswolds. This stunning little town prospered not on wool—like so many other villages in the region—but on silk. The eight mills that once produced the material are now private homes. During your visit, stroll among a rich canvas of Norman, Early English, medieval, and 17th- and 18th-century architecture. Later, descend to the town of Batsford, home of the Batsford Arboretum, a beautiful garden where spectacular coral bark maple and russet-berried mountain ash trees thrive. You may wander its inviting pathways on your own if you wish (approximately £9 per person). Then enjoy an easy stroll to the edge of the splendid Evenlode Valley and its bustling market town of Moreton-in-Marsh, which has welcomed travelers for at least 1,700 years.
5.4 miles, easy to moderate, 400-ft. elevation gain and 450-ft. elevation loss. Afternoon option: 2.5 miles, easy, no elevation gain or loss
After breakfast, you transfer to the tiny village of Broadwell Crossroads to begin another day of glorious walking over gently undulating landscapes. Set out through a bucolic landscape of green pastures, farms, and lovely Cotswold villages. You follow grassy and dirt paths through wheat fields and copses of hawksbeard and buttercups and descend to the antique-filled village of Stow-on-the-Wold, where you may stop for an early lunch overlooking the stocks on the village green. This pretty town was founded by Norman lords at the crossroads of several trade routes. Its market square is brimming with history: Fairs have been held here since 1330. At the height of the Cotswold wool industry, as many as 20,000 sheep were sold at one time.
Listen for woodpeckers in oak woods on the way to your next lodging in the tiny hamlet of Upper Slaughter. En route, a delightful stroll from Lower Slaughter leads to the neighboring hamlet of Bourton-on-the-Water, one of the prettiest villages in England. Its tidy streets are lined with tiny shops, Tudor houses, and gourmet restaurants.
6.8 miles, easy to moderate, 400-ft. elevation gain and loss
After breakfast, a short drive brings you to the town of Bibury, lauded by William Morris as “the most beautiful village in England.” Today, you’ll be starting and ending in this pretty village, home to Arlington Row, a string of stone weavers’ cottages and one of England’s most photographed sites. Originally built in 1380 as a wool store, it was converted into picturesque cottages in the 17th century. In 2010, the scenic cottages of Arlington Row were featured on the inside cover of the UK passport.
Your walk begins near these cottages as you cross the Coln River. Make your way past farmhouses and old mill buildings and into a landscape of rolling meadows and scattered forest. Reaching the town of Coln St. Aldywns, stop for lunch at a local restaurant or perhaps savor a pint at a pub, taking some time to relax before the return walk to Bibury.
As you leave Coln St. Aldwyns, you’ll pass almshouses and other historical buildings as your trail turns from road to walled lane to farm track. Continue through pastures and past farm cottages until your trail turns to a grassy track. Reaching Bibury, you’ll have time to explore before you settle in at tonight’s elegant, ivy-clad accommodation.
After a sumptuous breakfast, a taxi transports you about 45 minutes to Oxford, where you are free to enjoy a final day of exploration (lunch and dinner are on your own). We provide detailed city information to help you plan the remainder of your day in this fascinating historical city.
After an included breakfast*, make your own independent travel arrangements to Heathrow Airport for your onward travels. For details, refer to your Vacation Preparation Handbook.
*For guests with early-morning departures, breakfast at the hotel may not be available. Please check with the front desk to verify the times that breakfast is served.
Upon arrival at Heathrow Airport, make your own independent travel arrangements to Cheltenham in the County of Gloucestershire. For details, refer to your Vacation Preparation Handbook. This cultural capital of the fabled Cotswolds exudes an air of refinement, adorned with neatly tended green spaces and gracious Regency architecture dressed in ironwork, balconies, and verandahs. In the 18th century, aristocrats, including Jane Austen, flocked here with the same fervor with which they retreated to Bath—to “take the waters” of its many spas.
Spend the day as you wish, perhaps warming up for your walking days with a stroll along Cheltenham’s leafy promenade or browsing the fine-art collections of The Wilson Museum & Art Gallery. You meet your local Country Walkers representative this evening at 5:00 p.m. for an Orientation Meeting at the hotel. Dinner is on your own tonight at one of Cheltenham’s many fine restaurants.
9.3 miles, moderate, 650-ft. elevation gain and loss
After breakfast, a taxi ride of about a half hour delivers you to the 10th-century Sudeley Castle & Gardens, gracefully set against the quiet dignity of the Cotswolds hills on the outskirts of the ancient Saxon capital of Winchcombe. One of England’s most enchanting old estates, this is the final resting place of Queen Katherine Parr, the sixth wife of Henry VIII. There’ll be time to visit the property and stroll among its 10 award-winning gardens (we’ve already paid your entrance fee). Perhaps stop by the Pheasantry to admire its collection of 16 rare bird species, all bred and conserved here. Later, set off on the day’s walk to your next hotel.
You follow the Cotswold Way and an ancient pilgrims’ route to the eerie ruined arches of Hailes Abbey, once a sprawling complex that lured pilgrims by falsely claiming it held a vial of Holy Blood. From here, it’s a gentle climb up to the Iron Age Fortress at Beckbury Camp for superb valley views. After passing Stanway House’s magnificent gatehouse and tithe barn, perhaps enjoy a pub lunch in Stanton, and then amble through open meadows to charming Broadway, referred to as the “Jewel in the Cotswold Crown,” with its picturesque tree-lined High Street. You can seek out St. Eadburgha’s Church, hidden away on Snowshill Road. The village’s honey-colored limestone buildings and garden-lined streets were an inspiration to many artists and writers, such as J.M. Barrie and John Singer Sargent. After time to explore, you are transported about 10 minutes to your hotel for the next two nights, nestled among the hills on a country lane.
This evening, savor a relaxed dinner onsite—expect wholesome, hearty dishes like meltingly tender, slow-cooked pork belly, freshly caught fish, and locally sourced steaks with a heap of dripping chips. Throughout your Country Walkers Self-Guided Adventure, you can forget everything you’ve heard about English cuisine being bland. Far from the traditions of old, you will enjoy an exciting blend of fresh garden flavors and meats from local farms, infused with international flair, bright color, and the creativity of modern chefs.
9.6 miles, moderate, 700-ft. elevation gain and 500-ft. elevation loss
Enjoy a hearty breakfast this morning of eggs, kippers, poached haddock, juices, and continental favorites. On your way out, retrieve your included packed lunch with a sandwich of your choice, chips, seasonal fruit, fruit juice, and cake of the day to keep you fueled. You begin the day’s invigorating walk at Hidcote Gardens, which you may visit at your own expense if you wish. Its maze of paved pathways leads to outdoor “rooms,” splendid panoramas, and endless surprises, all designed by American horticulturist Major Lawrence Johnston.
From the gardens, set off on foot below the Worcestershire Hills to Chipping Campden, a charming old market town once famous for its wool trade, making the Cotswolds an important stop for merchants from London to Florence as they sought material for their clothing, tapestries, and more. The Grevel House, home to a renowned wool merchant, is on High Street. Today, Chipping Campden remains a thriving market town, home to fine buildings of every style from the 14th to the 17th centuries, a covered market, the “wool church” of St. James, and a silversmith. Take time to drink in this handsome little village with its long, gently curving main street.
Continue along the Cotswold Way on a gentle ascent toward the hotel. A short detour leads to Broadway Tower, the 18th-century folly inspired by Capability Brown, where you’re rewarded with stunning, unspoiled views. Located 1,024 feet atop Fish Hill, the tower is the second-highest point in the Cotswolds; it is said that in good weather, 13 counties can be seen from here. The tower was built to satisfy a countess’s whim, and was later the home of William Morris, a 19th-century poet, painter, and social reformer. Return to your hotel for another unforgettable evening in luxury, sampling more restaurant fare on your own. You might use the spa facilities, included in your stay, perhaps indulging in one of its soothing treatments at your own expense.
7.1 miles, easy to moderate, 800-ft. elevation gain and 850-ft. elevation loss
Taxi to Chipping Campden after another glorious breakfast. Then follow the farm fields and dirt tracks of the Heart of England Way, the celebrated trail that traverses the midlands of the country. Your first destination is Broad Campden, a quiet, picturesque village of thatched cottages nestled in the rolling countryside. You’re sure to pass grazing sheep and babbling streams as you approach the charming hamlet. Its cottages along High Street and its parish church are built from the lovely and distinctive golden Cotswold stone. The Quaker Meeting House is the oldest in the country, constructed in 1663.
Continue to the pretty village of Blockley, called a “best-kept secret” of the Cotswolds. This stunning little town prospered not on wool—like so many other villages in the region—but on silk. The eight mills that once produced the material are now private homes. During your visit, stroll among a rich canvas of Norman, Early English, medieval, and 17th- and 18th-century architecture. Later, descend to the town of Batsford, home of the Batsford Arboretum, a beautiful garden where spectacular coral bark maple and russet-berried mountain ash trees thrive. You may wander its inviting pathways on your own if you wish (approximately £9 per person). Then enjoy an easy stroll to the edge of the splendid Evenlode Valley and its bustling market town of Moreton-in-Marsh, which has welcomed travelers for at least 1,700 years.
5.4 miles, easy to moderate, 400-ft. elevation gain and 450-ft. elevation loss. Afternoon option: 2.5 miles, easy, no elevation gain or loss
After breakfast, you transfer to the tiny village of Broadwell Crossroads to begin another day of glorious walking over gently undulating landscapes. Set out through a bucolic landscape of green pastures, farms, and lovely Cotswold villages. You follow grassy and dirt paths through wheat fields and copses of hawksbeard and buttercups and descend to the antique-filled village of Stow-on-the-Wold, where you may stop for an early lunch overlooking the stocks on the village green. This pretty town was founded by Norman lords at the crossroads of several trade routes. Its market square is brimming with history: Fairs have been held here since 1330. At the height of the Cotswold wool industry, as many as 20,000 sheep were sold at one time.
Listen for woodpeckers in oak woods on the way to your next lodging in the tiny hamlet of Upper Slaughter. En route, a delightful stroll from Lower Slaughter leads to the neighboring hamlet of Bourton-on-the-Water, one of the prettiest villages in England. Its tidy streets are lined with tiny shops, Tudor houses, and gourmet restaurants.
6.8 miles, easy to moderate, 400-ft. elevation gain and loss
After breakfast, a short drive brings you to the town of Bibury, lauded by William Morris as “the most beautiful village in England.” Today, you’ll be starting and ending in this pretty village, home to Arlington Row, a string of stone weavers’ cottages and one of England’s most photographed sites. Originally built in 1380 as a wool store, it was converted into picturesque cottages in the 17th century. In 2010, the scenic cottages of Arlington Row were featured on the inside cover of the UK passport.
Your walk begins near these cottages as you cross the Coln River. Make your way past farmhouses and old mill buildings and into a landscape of rolling meadows and scattered forest. Reaching the town of Coln St. Aldywns, stop for lunch at a local restaurant or perhaps savor a pint at a pub, taking some time to relax before the return walk to Bibury.
As you leave Coln St. Aldwyns, you’ll pass almshouses and other historical buildings as your trail turns from road to walled lane to farm track. Continue through pastures and past farm cottages until your trail turns to a grassy track. Reaching Bibury, you’ll have time to explore before you settle in at tonight’s elegant, ivy-clad accommodation.
After a sumptuous breakfast, a taxi transports you about 45 minutes to Oxford, where you are free to enjoy a final day of exploration (lunch and dinner are on your own). We provide detailed city information to help you plan the remainder of your day in this fascinating historical city.
After an included breakfast*, make your own independent travel arrangements to Heathrow Airport for your onward travels. For details, refer to your Vacation Preparation Handbook.
*For guests with early-morning departures, breakfast at the hotel may not be available. Please check with the front desk to verify the times that breakfast is served.
Upon arrival in England, you make your way to Cheltenham in the County of Gloucestershire. This cultural capital of the fabled Cotswolds exudes an air of refinement, adorned with neatly tended green spaces and gracious Regency architecture dressed in ironwork, balconies, and verandahs. In the 18th century, aristocrats, including Jane Austen, flocked here with the same fervor with which they retreated to Bath—to “take the waters” of its many spas. You may arrive at your hotel at any time and spend the afternoon as you wish, perhaps warming up for your walking days with a stroll along the leafy promenade or browsing the fine-art collections of The Wilson Museum & Art Gallery. You meet your local Country Walkers representative this evening at 5:00 p.m. for an orientation meeting at the hotel. Dinner is on your own tonight at one of Cheltenham’s many fine restaurants.
9.3 miles, moderate, 650-ft. elevation gain and loss
After breakfast, a taxi ride of about a half hour delivers you to the 10th-century Sudeley Castle & Gardens, gracefully set against the quiet dignity of the Cotswolds hills on the outskirts of the ancient Saxon capital of Winchcombe. One of England’s most enchanting old estates, this is the final resting place of Queen Katherine Parr, the sixth wife of Henry VIII. There’ll be time to visit the property and stroll among its 10 award-winning gardens (we’ve already paid your entrance fee). Perhaps stop by the Pheasantry to admire its collection of 16 rare bird species, all bred and conserved here. Later, set off on the day’s walk to your next hotel.
You follow the Cotswold Way and an ancient pilgrims’ route to the eerie ruined arches of Hailes Abbey, once a sprawling complex that lured pilgrims by falsely claiming it held a vial of Holy Blood. From here, it’s a gentle climb up to the Iron Age Fortress at Beckbury Camp for superb valley views. After passing Stanway House’s magnificent gatehouse and tithe barn, perhaps enjoy a pub lunch in Stanton, and then amble through open meadows to charming Broadway, referred to as the “Jewel in the Cotswold Crown,” with its picturesque tree-lined High Street. You can seek out St. Eadburgha’s Church, hidden away on Snowshill Road. The village’s honey-colored limestone buildings and garden-lined streets were an inspiration to many artists and writers, such as J.M. Barrie and John Singer Sargent. After time to explore, you are transported about 10 minutes to your hotel for the next two nights, nestled among the hills on a country lane.
This evening, savor a relaxed dinner onsite—expect wholesome, hearty dishes like meltingly tender, slow-cooked pork belly, freshly caught fish, and locally sourced steaks with a heap of dripping chips. Throughout your Country Walkers Self-Guided Adventure, you can forget everything you’ve heard about English cuisine being bland. Far from the traditions of old, you will enjoy an exciting blend of fresh garden flavors and meats from local farms, infused with international flair, bright color, and the creativity of modern chefs.
9.6 miles, moderate, 700-ft. elevation gain and 500-ft. elevation loss
Enjoy a hearty breakfast this morning of eggs, kippers, poached haddock, juices, and continental favorites. On your way out, retrieve your included packed lunch with a sandwich of your choice, chips, seasonal fruit, fruit juice, and cake of the day to keep you fueled. You begin the day’s invigorating walk at Hidcote Gardens, which you may visit at your own expense if you wish. Its maze of paved pathways leads to outdoor “rooms,” splendid panoramas, and endless surprises, all designed by American horticulturist Major Lawrence Johnston.
From the gardens, set off on foot below the Worcestershire Hills to Chipping Campden, a charming old market town once famous for its wool trade, making the Cotswolds an important stop for merchants from London to Florence as they sought material for their clothing, tapestries, and more. The Grevel House, home to a renowned wool merchant, is on High Street. Today, Chipping Campden remains a thriving market town, home to fine buildings of every style from the 14th to the 17th centuries, a covered market, the “wool church” of St. James, and a silversmith. Take time to drink in this handsome little village with its long, gently curving main street.
Continue along the Cotswold Way on a gentle ascent toward the hotel. A short detour leads to Broadway Tower, the 18th-century folly inspired by Capability Brown, where you’re rewarded with stunning, unspoiled views. Located 1,024 feet atop Fish Hill, the tower is the second-highest point in the Cotswolds; it is said that in good weather, 13 counties can be seen from here. The tower was built to satisfy a countess’s whim, and was later the home of William Morris, a 19th-century poet, painter, and social reformer. Return to your hotel for another unforgettable evening in luxury, sampling more restaurant fare on your own. You might use the spa facilities, included in your stay, perhaps indulging in one of its soothing treatments at your own expense.
7.1 miles, easy to moderate, 800-ft. elevation gain and 850-ft. elevation loss
Taxi to Chipping Campden after another glorious breakfast. Then follow the farm fields and dirt tracks of the Heart of England Way, the celebrated trail that traverses the midlands of the country. Your first destination is Broad Campden, a quiet, picturesque village of thatched cottages nestled in the rolling countryside. You’re sure to pass grazing sheep and babbling streams as you approach the charming hamlet. Its cottages along High Street and its parish church are built from the lovely and distinctive golden Cotswold stone. The Quaker Meeting House is the oldest in the country, constructed in 1663.
Continue to the pretty village of Blockley, called a “best-kept secret” of the Cotswolds. This stunning little town prospered not on wool—like so many other villages in the region—but on silk. The eight mills that once produced the material are now private homes. During your visit, stroll among a rich canvas of Norman, Early English, medieval, and 17th- and 18th-century architecture. Later, descend to the town of Batsford, home of the Batsford Arboretum, a beautiful garden where spectacular coral bark maple and russet-berried mountain ash trees thrive. You may wander its inviting pathways on your own if you wish (approximately £9 per person). Then enjoy an easy stroll to the edge of the splendid Evenlode Valley and its bustling market town of Moreton-in-Marsh, which has welcomed travelers for at least 1,700 years.
5.4 miles, easy to moderate, 400-ft. elevation gain and 450-ft. elevation loss. Afternoon option: 2.5 miles, easy, no elevation gain or loss
After breakfast, you transfer to the tiny village of Broadwell Crossroads to begin another day of glorious walking over gently undulating landscapes. Set out through a bucolic landscape of green pastures, farms, and lovely Cotswold villages. You follow grassy and dirt paths through wheat fields and copses of hawksbeard and buttercups and descend to the antique-filled village of Stow-on-the-Wold, where you may stop for an early lunch overlooking the stocks on the village green. This pretty town was founded by Norman lords at the crossroads of several trade routes. Its market square is brimming with history: Fairs have been held here since 1330. At the height of the Cotswold wool industry, as many as 20,000 sheep were sold at one time.
Listen for woodpeckers in oak woods on the way to your next lodging in the tiny hamlet of Upper Slaughter. En route, a delightful stroll from Lower Slaughter leads to the neighboring hamlet of Bourton-on-the-Water, one of the prettiest villages in England. Its tidy streets are lined with tiny shops, Tudor houses, and gourmet restaurants.
6.8 miles, easy to moderate, 400-ft. elevation gain and loss
After breakfast, a short drive brings you to the town of Bibury, lauded by William Morris as “the most beautiful village in England.” Today, you’ll be starting and ending in this pretty village, home to Arlington Row, a string of stone weavers’ cottages and one of England’s most photographed sites. Originally built in 1380 as a wool store, it was converted into picturesque cottages in the 17th century. In 2010, the scenic cottages of Arlington Row were featured on the inside cover of the UK passport.
Your walk begins near these cottages as you cross the Coln River. Make your way past farmhouses and old mill buildings and into a landscape of rolling meadows and scattered forest. Reaching the town of Coln St. Aldywns, stop for lunch at a local restaurant or perhaps savor a pint at a pub, taking some time to relax before the return walk to Bibury.
As you leave Coln St. Aldwyns, you’ll pass almshouses and other historical buildings as your trail turns from road to walled lane to farm track. Continue through pastures and past farm cottages until your trail turns to a grassy track. Reaching Bibury, you’ll have time to explore before you settle in at tonight’s elegant, ivy-clad accommodation.
Upon arrival in England, you make your way to Cheltenham in the County of Gloucestershire. This cultural capital of the fabled Cotswolds exudes an air of refinement, adorned with neatly tended green spaces and gracious Regency architecture dressed in ironwork, balconies, and verandahs. In the 18th century, aristocrats, including Jane Austen, flocked here with the same fervor with which they retreated to Bath—to “take the waters” of its many spas. You may arrive at your hotel at any time and spend the afternoon as you wish, perhaps warming up for your walking days with a stroll along the leafy promenade or browsing the fine-art collections of The Wilson Museum & Art Gallery. You meet your local Country Walkers representative this evening at 5:00 p.m. for an orientation meeting at the hotel. Dinner is on your own tonight at one of Cheltenham’s many fine restaurants.
9.3 miles, moderate, 650-ft. elevation gain and loss
After breakfast, a taxi ride of about a half hour delivers you to the 10th-century Sudeley Castle & Gardens, gracefully set against the quiet dignity of the Cotswolds hills on the outskirts of the ancient Saxon capital of Winchcombe. One of England’s most enchanting old estates, this is the final resting place of Queen Katherine Parr, the sixth wife of Henry VIII. There’ll be time to visit the property and stroll among its 10 award-winning gardens (we’ve already paid your entrance fee). Perhaps stop by the Pheasantry to admire its collection of 16 rare bird species, all bred and conserved here. Later, set off on the day’s walk to your next hotel.
You follow the Cotswold Way and an ancient pilgrims’ route to the eerie ruined arches of Hailes Abbey, once a sprawling complex that lured pilgrims by falsely claiming it held a vial of Holy Blood. From here, it’s a gentle climb up to the Iron Age Fortress at Beckbury Camp for superb valley views. After passing Stanway House’s magnificent gatehouse and tithe barn, perhaps enjoy a pub lunch in Stanton, and then amble through open meadows to charming Broadway, referred to as the “Jewel in the Cotswold Crown,” with its picturesque tree-lined High Street. You can seek out St. Eadburgha’s Church, hidden away on Snowshill Road. The village’s honey-colored limestone buildings and garden-lined streets were an inspiration to many artists and writers, such as J.M. Barrie and John Singer Sargent. After time to explore, you are transported about 10 minutes to your hotel for the next two nights, nestled among the hills on a country lane.
This evening, savor a relaxed dinner onsite—expect wholesome, hearty dishes like meltingly tender, slow-cooked pork belly, freshly caught fish, and locally sourced steaks with a heap of dripping chips. Throughout your Country Walkers Self-Guided Adventure, you can forget everything you’ve heard about English cuisine being bland. Far from the traditions of old, you will enjoy an exciting blend of fresh garden flavors and meats from local farms, infused with international flair, bright color, and the creativity of modern chefs.
9.6 miles, moderate, 700-ft. elevation gain and 500-ft. elevation loss
Enjoy a hearty breakfast this morning of eggs, kippers, poached haddock, juices, and continental favorites. On your way out, retrieve your included packed lunch with a sandwich of your choice, chips, seasonal fruit, fruit juice, and cake of the day to keep you fueled. You begin the day’s invigorating walk at Hidcote Gardens, which you may visit at your own expense if you wish. Its maze of paved pathways leads to outdoor “rooms,” splendid panoramas, and endless surprises, all designed by American horticulturist Major Lawrence Johnston.
From the gardens, set off on foot below the Worcestershire Hills to Chipping Campden, a charming old market town once famous for its wool trade, making the Cotswolds an important stop for merchants from London to Florence as they sought material for their clothing, tapestries, and more. The Grevel House, home to a renowned wool merchant, is on High Street. Today, Chipping Campden remains a thriving market town, home to fine buildings of every style from the 14th to the 17th centuries, a covered market, the “wool church” of St. James, and a silversmith. Take time to drink in this handsome little village with its long, gently curving main street.
Continue along the Cotswold Way on a gentle ascent toward the hotel. A short detour leads to Broadway Tower, the 18th-century folly inspired by Capability Brown, where you’re rewarded with stunning, unspoiled views. Located 1,024 feet atop Fish Hill, the tower is the second-highest point in the Cotswolds; it is said that in good weather, 13 counties can be seen from here. The tower was built to satisfy a countess’s whim, and was later the home of William Morris, a 19th-century poet, painter, and social reformer. Return to your hotel for another unforgettable evening in luxury, sampling more restaurant fare on your own. You might use the spa facilities, included in your stay, perhaps indulging in one of its soothing treatments at your own expense.
7.1 miles, easy to moderate, 800-ft. elevation gain and 850-ft. elevation loss
Taxi to Chipping Campden after another glorious breakfast. Then follow the farm fields and dirt tracks of the Heart of England Way, the celebrated trail that traverses the midlands of the country. Your first destination is Broad Campden, a quiet, picturesque village of thatched cottages nestled in the rolling countryside. You’re sure to pass grazing sheep and babbling streams as you approach the charming hamlet. Its cottages along High Street and its parish church are built from the lovely and distinctive golden Cotswold stone. The Quaker Meeting House is the oldest in the country, constructed in 1663.
Continue to the pretty village of Blockley, called a “best-kept secret” of the Cotswolds. This stunning little town prospered not on wool—like so many other villages in the region—but on silk. The eight mills that once produced the material are now private homes. During your visit, stroll among a rich canvas of Norman, Early English, medieval, and 17th- and 18th-century architecture. Later, descend to the town of Batsford, home of the Batsford Arboretum, a beautiful garden where spectacular coral bark maple and russet-berried mountain ash trees thrive. You may wander its inviting pathways on your own if you wish (approximately £9 per person). Then enjoy an easy stroll to the edge of the splendid Evenlode Valley and its bustling market town of Moreton-in-Marsh, which has welcomed travelers for at least 1,700 years.
5.4 miles, easy to moderate, 400-ft. elevation gain and 450-ft. elevation loss. Afternoon option: 2.5 miles, easy, no elevation gain or loss
After breakfast, you transfer to the tiny village of Broadwell Crossroads to begin another day of glorious walking over gently undulating landscapes. Set out through a bucolic landscape of green pastures, farms, and lovely Cotswold villages. You follow grassy and dirt paths through wheat fields and copses of hawksbeard and buttercups and descend to the antique-filled village of Stow-on-the-Wold, where you may stop for an early lunch overlooking the stocks on the village green. This pretty town was founded by Norman lords at the crossroads of several trade routes. Its market square is brimming with history: Fairs have been held here since 1330. At the height of the Cotswold wool industry, as many as 20,000 sheep were sold at one time.
Listen for woodpeckers in oak woods on the way to your next lodging in the tiny hamlet of Upper Slaughter. En route, a delightful stroll from Lower Slaughter leads to the neighboring hamlet of Bourton-on-the-Water, one of the prettiest villages in England. Its tidy streets are lined with tiny shops, Tudor houses, and gourmet restaurants.
6.8 miles, easy to moderate, 400-ft. elevation gain and loss
After breakfast, a short drive brings you to the town of Bibury, lauded by William Morris as “the most beautiful village in England.” Today, you’ll be starting and ending in this pretty village, home to Arlington Row, a string of stone weavers’ cottages and one of England’s most photographed sites. Originally built in 1380 as a wool store, it was converted into picturesque cottages in the 17th century. In 2010, the scenic cottages of Arlington Row were featured on the inside cover of the UK passport.
Your walk begins near these cottages as you cross the Coln River. Make your way past farmhouses and old mill buildings and into a landscape of rolling meadows and scattered forest. Reaching the town of Coln St. Aldywns, stop for lunch at a local restaurant or perhaps savor a pint at a pub, taking some time to relax before the return walk to Bibury.
As you leave Coln St. Aldwyns, you’ll pass almshouses and other historical buildings as your trail turns from road to walled lane to farm track. Continue through pastures and past farm cottages until your trail turns to a grassy track. Reaching Bibury, you’ll have time to explore before you settle in at tonight’s elegant, ivy-clad accommodation.
Ideally situated on one of Cheltenham’s most picturesque Regency streets, Queens Hotel overlooks the stunning Imperial Square and Gardens, alongside the impressive Cheltenham Town Hall. Since its opening in 1838, the hotel has been restored to its neo-classical architectural splendor, blending original comforts with modern technologies for a new chapter in its majestic history. Its striking white façade, featuring over 50 Corinthian columns, carved cornices, and Georgian windows, is truly a sight to behold. This modern boutique hotel offers thoughtfully designed rooms equipped with complimentary mineral water and WiFi, air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and organic toiletries.
The majestic white building of Malmaison’s hotel in Cheltenham looks right at home just around the corner from the serene Montpellier Gardens, with the restaurant boasting a glass conservatory “Garden Room” and beautiful terrace. Although the hotel rests in the very heart of Cheltenham, you’ll instantly feel the calm and privacy of this carefully converted and utterly modern villa and surrounding grounds. Enjoy Malmaison’s famous menus in the Brasserie, or cocktails and spirits in the unique ambiance of the bar. Underneath the charm and calm of this Cheltenham hotel bubbles a restrained energy, with modern bedrooms featuring monsoon showers, robes, and REN toiletries. Rooms are naturally cooled without air conditioning. A Nespresso machine, minibar, tea and coffee making facilities, and indulgent snacks provide the finishing touches. Please note: this accommodation is available on limited departures.
At once elegant and rustic, the Dormy House is bathed in soothing neutral palettes and farmhouse chic. This rural retreat rests near the top of the Cotswold escarpment, high above the village of Broadway, and provides sweeping landscape views. Inspired by the furnishings and warmth of a stylish home, its guest rooms are naturally cooled without air conditioning, and its streamlined interiors evoke Scandinavian designs. The outstanding spa offers a lavender sauna, salt-infusion steam room, and infinity pool. Exposed stone walls and beams round out the historical character of this gorgeous property. At mealtime, choose from three venues: The Garden Room provides exquisite meals and al fresco dining; The Potting Shed offers brasserie classics; and The Greenhouse is your choice for lighter fare. At breakfast, savor a feast of fresh fruits, cereals, meats, pastries, and hot options.
On the main street of Moreton-in-Marsh sits the Manor House Hotel, a 16th-century golden-stone manor converted into a classic country-house luxury hotel. Bedrooms are un-air conditioned and stylishly decorated with modern furnishings and warm colors, and feature views of the surrounding town and countryside. Common rooms include a library, inviting sofas, and striking artwork. A terrace on the ground floor opens onto a tranquil garden with herbaceous borders, pathways, and a 300-year-old mulberry tree. Moreton-in-Marsh has been a market town since the 1200s and a travelers’ stop for 1,700 years; its main street has many 18th-century inns and houses. Please note: this accommodation is available on limited departures.
A rambling 17th-century luxury manor house, Lords of the Manor blends classic contemporary interiors with country charm and attentive service. Grand public rooms, snug corners, and un-air conditioned guest rooms—both in the main house and in the converted granary and barn—are decorated with country-house floral patterns, a muted color scheme, and antiques honoring the property’s heritage. Luxury skin care and bath lotions, along with slippers, fluffy robes, and complimentary sparkling elderflower water, complete your stay. There’s also an acclaimed restaurant offering upscale French-inspired cuisine and afternoon teas. Occupying eight acres of landscaped grounds featuring sweeping lawns and espaliered walled gardens, the manor is just a 35-minute stroll along country paths to Bourton-on-the-Water, the Cotswolds’ best-known village with its picturesque streets, series of bridges over the Windrush River, and bird habitat. Please note: this accommodation is available on limited departures.
A former Cotswold coaching inn, The Swan Hotel is a tranquil retreat nestled in the picturesque Cotswolds beside the River Coln. Each of its 22 rooms are individually decorated and offer modern amenities such as in-room WiFi and Nespresso machines. Comfortable and stylish, the hotel’s common areas boast bold colors paired with flamboyant prints and wallpapers. Rooms blend antique and modern styles while staying true to the hotel’s historical roots with rooms that are naturally cooled without air conditioning. The on-site restaurant serves meals in an elegant setting and features a lavish afternoon tea. Relax in the lush garden or stroll by the riverbank gazing out over the rolling hills and pastoral scenes that encapsulate the natural beauty of the Cotswolds.
With its lovely location beside the Thames River and amid a lovely parkland, the voco Oxford Spires Hotel is a comfortable haven from which to explore the City of Spires. Cotswolds stone and plush yet elegant interiors combine throughout to create a truly welcoming space of understated luxury. Modern amenities mingle seamlessly with traditional touches in this air-conditioned hotel. Deacon’s Restaurant promises fine cuisine prepared with ingredients sourced from the Oxfordshire countryside, while the bar and lounge—and an outdoor terrace—offer a casual atmosphere for relaxing over a drink or a spot of tea. Each comfortable room is accented with a warmth and décor inspired by the English countryside.
9 on-tour meals: 6 breakfasts, 1 lunch, and 2 dinners
Ride with GPS (custom downloadable GPS route notes and turn-by-turn voice navigation; smartphone required)
Orientation meeting with a Country Walkers representative
Local representative available 24/7
Entrance fees and special events as noted in the itinerary: Entrance to Sudeley Castle & Gardens
Scheduled on-tour taxi and luggage transportations (Please note: If unable to walk, it is possible to travel with your luggage from one accommodation to the next at no additional charge.)
Roundtrip international airfare
Not Included
Business-class upgrades available
Not Included
One extra night in Cheltenham and one extra night in Oxford
Not Included
Pre- and post-trip breakfasts
Not Included
Detailed information for your independent travel to/from arrival and departure airports
The experience of being outside everyday, walking in this beautiful part of England, and retiring to super comfy and well-located accommodation each evening, made this a Top 3 trip for me. I especially valued waking-up each morning knowing that the day's schedule was mine. Country Walkers had great recommendations for eating and visiting. The customized guidebook had all the information that I needed in one place. All details were taken care of. Thanks for making it so easy. A truly remarkable vacation, in a charming and welcoming part of the world.
CW Fan, Middlebury, Vermont
England: The Cotswolds
In the company of my sister, who believed I could accomplish the walk, we embarked on what turned out to be a beautiful experience. We did it all. We had lovely landscapes, villages, walks, wonderful places to stay, food and most of all the English people. I want to
do another trip very soon. June 2022
Kay M, Los Angeles, California
England: The Cotswolds
Expert Local Leaders
Experience your destination like an insider with people who call it home.
Chris Berry
After completing a degree in zoology, Chris Berry began work as a Countryside Ranger in Nottinghamshire (Robin Hood Country) before moving to the East Coast of Yorkshire to manage portions of the spectacular Heritage Coast. In 1997 he obtained his dream job working as Lake District National Park Ranger. He lives with his wife Colleen and their two daughters in the isolated Bobbin Mill Cottage in the southern Lake District where he now runs his own business as “The Lakeland Guide,” offering walks and other activities in the surrounding national park.
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