Walk The Cotswolds: Self-Guided Short Tour
See the Northern part of the Cotswold Way on this 5 day, 4 night walking holiday. Marvel at the beauty of the Cotswolds as you walk through sheep-filled fields and down quaint country lanes. With an abundance of history, heritage and stunning scenery to enjoy, walks on this holiday range between 4-7 miles per day, making it easy-moderate in difficulty. Highlights on this tour include the quiet village of Chipping Campden, Broadway, Broadway Tower and the stunning gardens at Hidcote.
At Active England Tours, we try to be more than your average travel company. We’ll lead you to the most iconic locations in England, Scotland or Wales. Join one of our small group adventures, travel with friends, treat your family or journey on your own with our range of beautifully curated guided and self-guided trip. We’ll take you on your best week of the year!
Tour Overview
The icons below highlight the distance, difficulty and theme of this itinerary.
Days
5
Distance
26.9 miles / 43.2km
Difficulty
Gentle
Landscape
Rolling Countryside
Theme
History
Activities & Experiences
Walking
North Cotswold Way: Marvellous Mini-Adventure On Foot
Here’s everything you need to help you plan your very own walking and exploring break in the north Cotswolds. Click on the blue arrow tabs below for more information. To save this itinerary to view later, use the Save to My Rucksack button at the top of the page.
- Tour details
- Itinerary
- Accommodation
- Interactive Map
- Maps, Guidebooks & Merchandise
Tour details
This itinerary is being operated by Active England, who specialise in active holidays across the country, including self-guided walks. Active England takes the hassle out of getting outdoors so you have more time to enjoy it.
Active England will arrange your whole tour: you just need to arrange transport to your first location.
To find out more about this itinerary and make an enquiry or a booking, click on the Enquire Now button at the top of the page. The Save to My Rucksack button allows you to save itineraries to view later.
Included
- All accommodation as indicated on the itinerary.
- All breakfasts.
- Baggage transportation
- GPS routes, provided via RideWithGPS (app available for Apple or Android).
- All gratuities for baggage, porters and hotel service
Itinerary
See England at its rural best, as you hike through honey-coloured villages, through sheep-filled fields and down quaint country lanes with our short self-guided Cotswolds walking tour. The Cotswolds is perfect walking country, with an abundance of history, heritage and stunning scenery to enjoy. Covering a range between 4-7 miles per day, this itinerary is easy – moderate difficulty. Please get in touch and our friendly local guides will be more than happy to assist with your requirements. Whichever route you choose, with excellent accommodation, cozy local pubs and outstanding cuisine, Active England promises a Cotswold adventure you’ll never forget.
This itinerary ensures an unforgettable Cotswold adventure with exceptional accommodations, cozy local pubs, and outstanding cuisine.
- Visit the ‘garden rooms’ at the world-famous Hidcote Gardens.
- Walk through Broadway, the ‘jewel of the Cotswolds’.
- Revel in the bustling market town of Bourton-on-the-Water
Day 1 - Arrival into Moreton-in-Marsh and first walk to Chipping Campden
Upon your arrival at Moreton-in-Marsh at 10:00 am, you will be greeted by our friendly local guide who will provide you with a comprehensive introductory briefing. The first route will take you through the enchanting Batsford Arboretum, where we suggest stopping for lunch, and the picturesque village of Blockley. While you continue your journey towards Chipping Campden, make sure to visit Broad Campden, which is renowned for its thatched cottages and traditional Cotswold stonework. Chipping Campden, one of the most iconic market towns in the Cotswolds, will be your home for the night.
7 miles – 850ft elevation
Day 2 - Chipping Campden and the 'Garden Rooms' of Hidcote
Day two sees you take on a loop out from Chipping Campden to the wonderful surroundings of Hidcote Gardens. Nestled down quiet country Cotswold lanes, these world-famous gardens were designed by American horticulturist Lawrence Johnston. The garden cafe is the ideal place to while away a few hours before you begin the return leg to Chipping Campden and some well-earned refreshments at your accommodation.
7 miles – 400ft elevation
Day 3 - Picture-perfect Broadway and Broadway Tower
Today’s walk sets out on the Cotswold Way, a 102-mile trail that spans from Chipping Campden to Bath. The first stop of the day is Broadway Tower, which boasts breathtaking views over 16 counties in England and Wales. It’s an ideal spot to stop and savour your lunch before making your way into Broadway itself, known as the “Jewel of the Cotswolds.” Stroll along the lively high street and explore the many fascinating stores. For a truly indulgent experience, treat yourself to an afternoon tea at the delightful Broadway Deli.
5.4 miles – 580ft elevation
Day 4 - 'Venice of the Cotswolds' and the Windrush valley
Following an early morning transfer to the village of Naunton, there’s a shorter walk on today’s menu. Strolling out from the village centre through classic Cotswold countryside, you’ll wind your way towards Bourton-on-the-Water. Famous as the ‘Venice of the Cotswolds,’ this is the region’s most visited town and for good reason! Take in the local architecture, before settling into your accommodation for the evening.
4.5 miles – 220ft elevation
Day 5 - Lower Slaughter, farewells and onward travel
After a relaxed breakfast, there’s the chance to walk to the village of Lower Slaughter, with its two small bridges and converted mill with a water wheel. We then arrange a lunchtime transfer to Moreton-in-Marsh railway station for onward travel.
3 miles – 140ft elevation
Accommodation
Our handpicked four-star and three-star hotels are the best in the Cotswolds, providing wonderful cuisine and a relaxing environment to rest weary feet at the end of the day. Prestige four-star options include the Cotswold House & Spa in Chipping Campden, three-star options are the The Lygon Arms in Chipping Campden and the Chestnuts Bed and Breakfast in Bourton-on-the-Water.
Interactive Map
To access the map please click here: Interactive Map
Maps, Guidebooks & Merchandise
The official guidebook and map for the Trail are available from the National Trails Shop along with a wide range of gifts and other merchandise.