COTSWOLD WAY

Meander picture-perfect England

The world-renowned Cotswold Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is a glorious jumble of stunning landscapes, picture-perfect villages, rich cultural and historical heritage and wonderful biodiversity.

The Cotswold Way path meanders along the western fringe of the Cotswold limestone escarpment, passing through ancient beech woodlands, rare grassland, glorious meadows, Neolithic, Roman and medieval sites and some of England’s prettiest villages. 

Our specially-designed hiking itinerary also includes part of the Monarch’s Way at Stratford-upon-Avon, giving you the opportunity to discover and explore William Shakespeare’s hometown.

You’ll walk on soft pathways that climb gentle, undulating hills, as well as walk some tougher ascents, but the effort is worth it. There are endless views and achingly gorgeous honey-coloured villages to enjoy. Not to mention the abundance of wild-flowers, butterflies, grasses, streams and Cotswold sheep known as the ‘Cotswold Lion’.

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COTSWOLD WAY

Lazy afternoon in the Cotswolds; Shutterstock ID 680485537
13 Days

Cotswold Way

The Self-Guided Walk – Cotswold Way

Moderate Self-Guided
  • Marvel at the fine Georgian architecture in World Heritage Bath
  • Wander among age-old beech trees along quiet woodland trails
  • Explore some of the worlds best-preserved ancient Roman baths 
  • Delight at the chocolate-box villages and picture-perfect countryside
from

$2,890.00

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The Broadway Tower in England's Cotswold, County of Worcestershire.; Shutterstock ID 771368131
8 Days

Cotswold Way

South Cotswolds – Cotswold Way

Moderate Self-Guided
  • Walk from charming Painswick to the elegant streets of Bath
  • Explore honey-coloured villages and medieval market towns
  • Follow the path through two butterfly conservation reserves
  • Discover the ancient history of Neolithic Belas Knap
from

$1,820.00

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7 Days

Cotswold Way

North Cotswolds – Cotswold Way

Moderate Self-Guided
  • Walk from Stratford-upon-Avon to delightful Painswick
  • Enjoy honey-coloured villages and medieval market towns
  • Indulge in exceptional local cuisine at posh gastro pubs
  • See the birthplace of poet and playwright William Shakespeare
from

$1,560.00

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Cotswold Way Route Map

Stratford-upon-Avon

Stratford-upon-Avon is famous as the birthplace of William Shakespeare. Its picturesque streets are lined with Tudor-style buildings, and the River Avon flows through, offering scenic beauty. The Royal Shakespeare Theatre is a cultural gem, drawing visitors from around the world to enjoy Shakespearean performances.

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Chipping Campden

You begin your Cotswold adventure following the Monarch’s Way to Chipping Campden – a tiny historic market town with stunning examples of Cotswold stone craftsmanship and a history steeped in wool trading.

Stanton

Idyllic honey-coloured Stanton remains almost unchanged for over 300 years and has been described as the ‘most ridiculously beautiful’ village in the Cotswolds.

Cleeve Hill

Cleeve Hill is the highest point in the Cotswold Hills. Its stunning panoramic views stretch across Cheltenham and the surrounding countryside.

Birdlip

Birdlip is nestled atop the Cotswold escarpment. Known for its breathtaking vistas of the Severn Vale and Malvern Hills, it’s a haven for nature enthusiasts and hikers. The village exudes traditional English charm with its historic architecture and quaint atmosphere.

Painswick

Historic Painswick is often referred to as “The Queen of the Cotswolds”. When you reach here, you’ve also reached the mid-way point of the walk.

King’s Stanley

King’s Stanley surprises visitors with its rich industrial heritage. It was once a hub for the production of woollen cloth and boasts historic mills and canals that whisper tales of its past.

Wotton-under-Edge

In the bustling market town of Wotton-under-Edge you’ll find notable landmarks including the 13th-century St Mary’s Church and the imposing Ancient Ram Inn.

Old Sodbury

Savour the charm of every little hamlet and the gloriously-named valley Nanny Farmer’s Bottom as you stride the easy paths to tiny Old Sodbury. Here we recommend a refreshing ale at the 500-year-old Dog Inn.

Cold Ashton

Cold Ashton offers a glimpse into its rich past through well-preserved 17th-century limestone cottages. St Gabriel’s Church, a medieval gem, adds to the village’s historical appeal.

Bath

Bath is the original wellness destination retreat! Pamper yourself with a therapeutic spa in the natural hot springs of the Roman baths, or visit one of its many galleries, museums or chic boutiques.

COTSWOLD WAY

THE RAW TRAVEL DIFFERENCE

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ON-TRAIL NAVIGATION

Our proprietary app for navigation shows you where you are on the trail in real-time and includes emergency contacts. This leaves you free to focus on enjoying your walk, safely and confidently.

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LUGGAGE TRANSFERS

Enjoy the convenience of hiking light and having your bags delivered directly to your accommodation each night.

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FLEXIBLE TRIPS TAILORED TO YOU

We offer the flexibility to tailor make an itinerary to suit you. Talk to our Destination Specialist to see how we can customise your Cotswolds adventure.

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WE GET YOU READY TO WALK

We offer expert first-hand advice and comprehensive resources to ensure you are well prepared to enjoy your adventure.

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Tailor-made trips

If you don’t see the exact trip you’re looking for then consider a customised trip, individually tailored to your ideal walking distances and timeframes. Have a look at our tailor-made trips page on the link below and drop us a line:

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