Cotswold Villages Walking Tour

Arrive in Cheltenham and take some time to explore the most complete Regency town in England. There is plenty of period architecture, a variety of boutique shops, and a number of great restaurants to choose from when you get hungry. Get a good night’s rest in preparation for the start of your walking tour.

Your group will be gathered today to take a short transfer. Depending on your preference, transfer either to Northleach or Chedworth Roman Villa, then walk to Bourton-on-the-Water. At Chedworth, you’ll see the best-exposed Roman villa in England, set against a backdrop of lovely woods and pastures beside a small river, River Coln. Northleach is a market town where you can get a wonderful introduction to the area. There is a large church from the 15th Century built in typical Cotswold style.

Visit the Heritage Centre for an insightful look at traditional Cotswolds farming life.
Walk along the Monarch’s Way, through seemingly untouched hamlets, over the rolling hills. In the valley of the River Windrush, you’ll arrive in Bourton, which is the best-known village in this area. A variety of attractions are available here, including a maze, museums, and a perfumery. Your luggage will be transferred to Bourton-on-the-Water, where you will spend the night.

Walk to Cold Ashton today, over the rolling hills and through the mixed farmland along the way. Stop at a traditional pub for rest and refreshment, then continue your walk to Naunton. In Naunton you’ll find pleasant countryside where a cluster of stone cottages are nestled in the valley among the sheep and horses. The path from here follows the River Windrush back to Bourton by way of forests and lush meadows. You’ll also pass a lost medieval village. Spend another night in Bourton-on-the-Water.

Today’s walk features two of the most popular villages in the Cotswolds. You’ll understand why when you visit Upper and Lower Slaughter, two lovely riverside villages situated on the River Eye. Local artists find inspiration in the manor houses and charming cottages, and their work is frequently exhibited in the village hall. The old water mill in Lower Slaughter is currently a museum, and the mill itself is slowly being restored to working order. Next, explore the similarly pleasant riverside towns of Upper and Lower Swell. Sitting on the banks of the River Dickler, you’ll find quaint towns with cozy country inns. You can also visit the Georgian therapeutic well. Continue from there to Stow-on-the-Wold. This town features a central market square surrounded by lovely old stone buildings. It was once used to host sheep fairs. Your luggage has been transferred for you to Stow-on-the-Wold, as you will spend the night here.

Enjoy a peaceful day of walking through the countryside today. You’ll wander through secluded villages and join up for a time with the Oxfordshire Way trail as it traverses the wide valley carved by the River Evenlode. Take in the view across to the Wychwood, and visit the villages such as Icomb, Oddington, and Bledington, which many tourists often miss. Return to Stow-on-the-Wold through a countryside full of delightful manor houses, charming cottage gardens and village greens. Don’t miss the medieval wall paintings that can be seen in churches along the way. After a calm and peaceful day, spend another night in Stow-on-the-Wold.

Explore the Evenlode Valley further today and witness architecture that is a mix of the typical and the surprising. First, Donnington offers a glimpse of the typical English manor house. Then come to the Oriental House at Sezincote. This manor from the 18th Century is built after the Indian style and features water gardens. Continue walking to reach Moreton-in-Marsh, with its broad main street at its center. The main street is lined with shops, inns, and fine houses. You will spend the night in this charming town, and your luggage has already been transferred for you.

Sadly, your Cotswold Villages walking tour has come to an end. We hope you have enjoyed your time exploring the Cotswolds. Buses and trains are available in Moreton-in-Marsh to take you back to Cheltenham or to Oxford, Reading, London, and beyond. Safe travels!