Beginning in Chipping Campden and ending in the beautiful city of Bath, the Cotswold Way is underrated and a gem of a long-distance trail. The days are characterised by the incredibly beautiful landscapes for which the Cotswolds are renowned, while the nights are spent by the fire in historic country pubs and cosy, comfortable accommodations. The day of walking will be richly rewarded with local lamb, Gloucestershire pork, Double Gloucester cheese and the famous Cotswold cream – a favourite among the locals.

Hopping from village to village – each one more beautiful than the last – the Cotswold Way features manageable distances with undulating terrain. While the ascents and descents can sometimes be steep, the terrain generally rolls, rather than rises, past stately manor houses, Iron Age hill forts and Neolithic burial grounds. There’s no better way to immerse yourself in history.

Day 1 | Arrive in Chipping Campden

Travel to Chipping Campden, in Gloucestershire – home of Gloucestershire cheese – which is quite simply one of the prettiest and most enjoyable towns in all the Cotswolds. It’s the perfect place to spend your first evening, with plenty of high-quality restaurants, atmospheric pubs and some lovely walks to warm your legs up for the Cotswold Way.

Day 2 | Chipping Campden – Stanton | 16 km

Your journey along the Cotswold Way commences by departing Chipping Campden and climbing to the iconic landmark of Broadway Tower, which offers expansive views of the countryside. From here, you’ll descend steeply to the rural village of Broadway, where you’ll encounter a number of classic British pubs, stone houses typical of the Cotswolds and, of course, a number of tearooms to pop into for a cuppa and a biscuit. Exiting Broadway, you’ll walk over Shenberrow Hill and past a hill fort dating back to the Iron Age before arriving in Stanton, a sleepy little village where little has changed since the 17th century.

Day 3 | Stanton – Cleeve Hill | 21 km

After a peaceful night in Stanton village, continue along the Cotswold Way past Stanway House and the ruins of Hailes Abbey, eventually arriving in Winchcombe. Here you’ll find a picturesque village with a variety of pubs, tearooms and shops – a nice spot for a break. Continue south and you’ll find the spectacular Sudeley Castle, as well as Belas Knap, a burial mound dating back to the Stone Age. Soak up the views from Cleeve Common – the highest point on the Cotswold Way – before arriving at your accommodation for the evening.

Day 4 | Cleeve Hill – Leckhampton Hill | 16 km

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast then head out into the countryside once more as you walk south to Dowdeswell Reservoir, just under 10 km away. This section, which hugs the western edge of the Cotswold escarpment, has wonderful views of the surrounding landscape. Climb from the reservoir back up to higher ground and continue walking past the Devil’s Chimney, one of the most recognisable landmarks along the route.  With views out towards the Malvern Hills, it’s a lovely stretch of walking before arriving at Leckhampton Hill.

Day 5 | Leckhampton Hill – Painswick | 22.5 km

Prepare to tackle the longest day so far as you head to Crickley Hill, known for its rich archaeological history, with evidence of human activity dating back some 6,000 years. From here, you’ll follow a path through beech woodlands to Coopers Hill, famous across the globe for its cheese-rolling competition that takes place every Spring Bank Holiday – prepare for the ascent. – There are plenty of stunning views along the way, as well as a short detour to Prinknash Abbey, until you eventually arrive in Painswick – another celebrated village of the Cotswolds. Contrary to its name, Painswick is rather pleasant indeed.

Day 6 | Painswick to Kings Stanley | 14.5 km

The Cotswold Way takes you over Scottsquarr Hill and Haresfield Beacon today, which both offer great views of the hilly green landscape typical of the Cotswolds. It’s one of the most enjoyable sections of the walk. You’ll then descend through woodlands and fields to the Stroud Valley and Storudwater Canal, continuing past the Stanley Woollen Mills. The Cotswolds have historically had a rich wool-making tradition. Set under the escarpment of Selsey Common and Stanley Woods, Kings Stanley is a medium-sized village with all the expected shops and pubs, as well as a welcoming village green that’s begging for someone to take an afternoon nap on its grass.

Day 7 | Kings Stanley – Wotton-under-Edge | 24 km

Begin the day with some sharp ascents and descents that can, at times, be challenging, but are rewarded with expansive views of the surrounding region. The route will take you past Iron Age hill forts and ancient burial chambers before you reach Dursley. From here, the Cotswold Way crosses Nibley Knoll and passes the Tyndale Monument – a 34-metre-tall tower built in 1866 – before twisting through woods and fields as it approaches Wotton-under-Edge, which sits under the Cotswold Edge escarpment. This is a bustling little village, full of local characters and British charm, and you’ll be spoilt for food choices with high-quality Indian and Chinese rivalling the superb steakhouse.

Day 8 | Wotton-under-Edge – Tormarton | 25 km

Houses, houses, houses. You’ll have no doubt noticed a number of beautiful or interesting houses along the Cotswold Way and today the path will take you past Horton Court, which is thought to be the oldest house along the trail. This grand, 16th-century stone manor has been a National Trust property since 1949 and features a Norman hall dating back to the 12th century – be sure to stop in for a visit. You’ll also walk past Kilcott Mill and the Somerset Monument before reaching Hawkesbury Upton, a nice village for a break. From here, you’ll continue through Old Sodbury and onwards to Tormarton, a tiny, tranquil village, where you can put your feet up and enjoy a hearty meal.

Day 9 | Tormarton – Bath | 27 km

The final section of the Cotswold Way is characterised by breathtaking views and the incredible Dyrham Park, a Baroque country manor built in the late-17th century. It even has an ancient deer park. Enjoy pottering around the house and gardens, viewing the impressive tapestries, then continue to the beautiful city of Bath, which marks the end of the Cotswold Way. This truly is one of the most atmospheric cities in all of Britain and the perfect place to complete the trail. Enjoy a stroll around town, perhaps visiting a spa to soak your weary muscles, before celebrating your achievements at one of the local establishments. While Bath is famous for its tearooms, which serve scones, jam and cream, even the pub grub is a notch above, and something like garlic scallops are considered a casual dish.

Day 10 | Finish in Bath

Your journey along the stunning Cotswold Way comes to an end after breakfast this morning.

Visit www.wanderingtheworld.com.au for more information.

Inclusions

• 9 nights accommodation, all carefully selected to enhance your walking experience
• Private en-suite facilities
• Daily luggage transfers from hotel to hotel (1 x 20kg bag unless indicated otherwise)
• Daily full English breakfast
• List of suggested places to dine in the evening
• Information packs with route maps and instructions on how to locate hotels
• Luggage identification tags
• Emergency contact details and 24/7 local on-the-ground support
• Pre-departure and ongoing support from Australian office

Optional Inclusions

• Suggested rest days as outlined in itinerary or if required
• Upgraded accommodation choices such as premium/high-end style
• Private vehicle transfers to the trip’s starting point
• Single supplement for your own room
• Additional night’s accommodation before or after trip (please advise at time of booking)

Not Included

• Flights
• Travel to trip’s starting point
• Transfers not already outlined in detailed trip itinerary
• Dinners
• Lunches

Accommodation

We know from personal experience that a good night’s rest can make or break a trip, which is why we carefully hand-select all our accommodation. We ensure we pass on our knowledge and firsthand experience of the best places to stay to all our walkers.

Your accommodation along the trail is booked in advance and is chosen to make your walking experience as rewarding as possible. Our carefully selected guest houses, inns and hotels, often steeped in history, offer a charming, cosy feel, all with private en-suite facilities. Knowing you have delightful and characterful accommodation waiting for you makes all the difference.

All our places we stay in the UK and Ireland are chosen to keep you comfortable and content. From quaint B&Bs to refurbished highland manor houses complete with roaring fires and rare whiskies, the comfort of our accommodations is matched only by the views.

Single supplements are available so you can enjoy your own room with private en-suite, and a single supplement will apply if you are travelling alone, or if there is no gender share option.  However, you can request a shared room through Wandering the World at the time of booking, however this is not guaranteed.

In many places along the trails there are luxury, upgraded options available. Perfect for a special occasion, to celebrate a milestone or to enhance your entire journey should you choose. We can recommend some very special, unique places to indulge in the local hospitality in extraordinary style. Please ask us about these options.

Food & Dining

Walking and eating go hand in hand and your wander through this spectacular countryside gives you ample opportunity to experience each regions finest produce and cooking.

Breakfast at your place of accommodation, is always a highlight and you will start your day well fuelled. Enjoy a hearty, full cooked breakfast with all the trimmings, as well as fresh fruits, cereals, yoghurt, tea, coffee, and juices.

Lunch, at your own expense, will depend on where you are on your walk and what is available.  You may discover local cafes or a pub en route to order some local fare. Some days you will need to carry your own picnic lunch, which can be arranged the evening prior, through your accommodation. Keep on the lookout for a traditional scones and cream afternoon tea to reward yourself at the end of your walking day.

Having walked these routes many times, Wandering the World is in the know as to where our walkers can enjoy a great evening meal. Dinner is your own choice and expense and we provide many suggestions on where to dine.  Ambient and traditional places where you can delight in a traditional Irish stew, freshly caught Scottish Salmon, good old Bangers and Mash or other home cooked dishes these regions are well known for.

THE WALKING

This trip is a self-guided itinerary, ideal for groups and independent travellers who prefer to navigate their own way, in their own time.

You will be provided with an information pack with easy to read maps and instructions, complete with directions to guide you on the well-marked paths and tracks. Your information pack will be available at your joining hotel on the first day of your trip.

TRIP GRADE

Moderate – This itinerary is carefully designed for easy to manage walking days. Averaging less than 20km on most days, approximately 4-6 walking hours. Surfaces are fairly even with moderate ascents and descents. A reasonable level of fitness is recommended.

Given you only need carry a lightweight day bag, this trip is very manageable for those new to walking holidays. Preparation and training make all our walks more enjoyable.

LUGGAGE TRANSFERS

For your comfort and enjoyment Wandering the World arrange a daily luggage transfer. All you need to carry is a day pack and be free to enjoy your walking. Luggage allowance is one bag per person of no more than 20kg. Luggage must be left in the reception of your hotel before breakfast (8am) each day, before you move on.

It is essential to attach the bag tag provided to ensure your luggage is delivered to your next accommodation.

*Please note only one bag will be moved each day, additional charges will apply if your bag is heavier than 20kg. Should you require special arrangements for additional luggage transfers, this can be booked ahead of time and must be paid as a part of your final payment to Wandering the World.

GROUP SIZE

Wandering the World guided groups have a maximum group size of 12 participants. This small group size has many advantages including flexibility to stay in a wide range of accommodation options, dining together of an evening, the opportunity to get to know your travelling companions, and the freedom to walk alone or together.

TRANSFERS/TAXIS

There may be options to amend your itinerary or shorten your walking day that include a transfer. Adding in extra days is also an option. Please talk to us about this when planning your trip.

On some itineraries, there are times when Wandering the World may arrange a transfer for you or can do so at your request. For example, this might be where small villages do not have accommodation with private facilities, or we want to take you to a special out of the way hotel we know you are going to love. In this case Wandering the World will either arrange a transfer for you or suggest in your trip notes that you will need a taxi at your own expense.

WEATHER

The weather and climate in the United Kingdom varies from region to region, and of course from day to day. Each season has its benefits, with lovely long warm and sunny days in Spring and early Summer, to cooler walking temperatures early Spring and late Autumn. Some walks may be too hot or wet at times. Talk to Wandering the World when making your plans and to discuss your preferences. Our expertise can guide you.

Once on your walk, the weather can play an important part on the enjoyment of the journey.  Checking the forecast can assist with your plans.  If you strike warm weather, which you think may be uncomfortable, leaving early to avoid the hottest part of the day can make a difference.

24/7 SUPPORT & CARE

Your information pack will include details of local emergency contacts and international contacts.

We have local on the ground support to give you any assistance you may need.

We also check in with each hotel at the end of each day to ensure your arrival.

GETTING THERE / GETTING HOME

This itinerary begins in Chipping Campden and ends in Bath.

The closest airport is London Heathrow International Airport.

There are bus and train options for arriving and departing your walking commencement destination.

Remember all train bookings are recommended, and you can only book two months in advance of date of travel.

Bus:

There are direct connections from the Heathrow coach station to Bath.

Coaches from Heathrow Airport to Bath Bus Station run from 8:15am.The last coach arrives in Bath at 1:40am.  There are 10 scheduled departures a day with National Express.

By Rail:

From Bath you then take a train (via Reading) to Moreton-in-the-Marsh with GWR.

There is a fast and frequent rail service from London Paddington to Moreton-in-the-Marsh (journey time 2 hours). It’s then a 6 mile / 10 kms journey by bus or taxi to Chipping Campden.

Returning from Bath

Bath is well linked by all forms of public transport for your onward travel.

INSURANCE

Insurance is compulsory for everyone who travels with Wandering the World. The insurance policy must include cover against personal accident, medical expenses, emergency repatriation and personal liability. Wandering the World recommends insurance coverage for cancellation to be taken at the same time payment is made, as no exception to the cancellation provisions can be made.

BOOKING AND TRAVEL TERMS AND CONDITIONS 

Wandering the World’s full booking terms and conditions are available upon request and will also accompany your initial invoice for deposit.