Cotswold Way

The basics

Some travelers explore parts of The Cotswold Way during private or shared tours. Some of these tours are walking tours, which typically begin with pickup in Stratford-upon-Avon or Moreton-in-Marsh, followed by a walk starting at the Broadway Tower, with stops at highlights of the Cotswolds, such as Swinbrook and Burford. Alternatively, some travelers choose private day tours, where a chauffeur-driven vehicle takes them between must-see villages and towns along the trail—a time-saving way to check off local countryside gems.

Things to know before you go

• The Cotswold Way Association offers a website with accessibility information, including stile-free trail areas and wheelchair-, stroller-, and mobility scooter-accessible trails, such as the Leckhampton Hill Accessibility Trail.

• A Cotswolds Way National Trail website includes a distance measurer, an interactive map, and highlights along the trail, including accommodation options.

• If you don’t want to carry a heavy backpack, there are luggage transfer services available to transport your baggage between places along the trail.

• There is no set or preferred direction for walking the trail, so you can begin in Chipping Campden or Bath.

How to get there

To access the Cotswold Way, you can start in Chipping Campden or Bath, where the trail begins and ends. Both towns are well-connected by train and bus: from London, take a train to Moreton-in-Marsh and then a bus to Chipping Campden. To reach Bath, you can take a direct train from London Paddington. Then, local buses or taxis can help you navigate between places on the trail if you don’t wish to walk the entire route.

When to get there

The best times to hike the Cotswold Way are late spring to early fall, ideally from May to September. During these months, you can enjoy longer daylight hours and blooming countryside. Summer can be popular, though, so starting early in the day helps avoid crowds. Fall offers cooler temperatures and beautiful foliage, but it may have more rain.

Highlights of the Cotswolds Way

Highlights along the Cotswold Way include the iconic Broadway Tower, one of the tallest towers in the Cotswolds, offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The charming village of Stanton, with its traditional stone cottages, and the historic Hailes Abbey from the 13th century are must-sees. Additional notable spots include Sudeley Castle, known for its stunning gardens, the picturesque town of Painswick, and the architectural grandeur of Bath’s Royal Crescent.