The Cotswolds, with its rolling hills, honey-stone villages, and historic landmarks, offers an idyllic setting for a UK staycation. Spanning five counties including Gloucestershire, Warwickshire, and Wiltshire, the area boasts over 3,000 miles of footpaths and bridleways. Here are seven of the best walks, complete with accommodation suggestions.
1. The Cotswold Way
This 102-mile National Trail runs from Chipping Campden to Bath, divided into 15 stages of 4.7 to 10.2 miles. Highlights include Cleeve Hill, Coaley Peak, and Crickley Hill. Shorter sections, such as Cleeve Hill to Dowdeswell or Cold Ashton to Bath, offer scenic alternatives. Stay at the Yard Hotel in Bath, featuring a courtyard and wine bar.
2. Shakespeare's Way
Beginning in Stratford-upon-Avon, this route passes through the Cotswolds and Blenheim Palace. A recommended segment starts at Chipping Norton, heading to Woodstock and the palace gardens. Accommodation: Macdonald Bear Hotel in Woodstock, a 13th-century coaching inn.
3. Coln St Aldwyns to Bibury
A six-mile walk through peaceful countryside linking two charming villages. Bibury is home to Arlington Row, a row of 14th-century wool stores used in film productions. Stay at the Swan Hotel, an ivy-clad riverside inn with afternoon tea.
4. Chipping Campden to Broadway Tower
This six-mile route on the Cotswold Way crosses meadows and woodlands to Broadway Tower, offering panoramic views of up to 16 counties. Continue to Broadway village. Stay at The Cotswold House Hotel in Chipping Campden, with a spa and fine dining.
5. Winchcombe to Cleeve Hill
This walk covers Sudeley Castle, Belas Knap Neolithic barrow, and Cleeve Hill, the Cotswolds' highest point at 330 metres. Stay at The Lion Inn, a 15th-century coaching inn in Winchcombe.
6. Castle Combe
A 4.5-mile loop around this unspoiled village with golden cottages and stone walls, through woodland to Danks Down. Stay at The Castle Inn, a 12th-century pub with individually decorated rooms and British cuisine.
7. The Windrush Way
A 13.5-mile walk connecting the Cotswold Way and Oxfordshire Way, starting and ending in Bourton-on-the-Water. It follows the Windrush River, passing Winchcombe, Sudeley Castle, and Gazeley Wood. Stay at Dial House, a stone-walled hotel with a festooned garden.
