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St. Barnabas Church, Snowshill - Best of the Cotswolds on Foot - Guided, United Kingdom
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New

Best of the Cotswolds on Foot - Guided

United Kingdom

9 Days from

$ 

Trip Code: ECY
View dates to Book
Essential Information
Duration
  • 9 Days
Activities
  • guided walk
Accommodation
  • Hotels, Inns & Guesthouses
Meals
  • 8 Breakfasts
Difficulty Grading  
2 / 5

introductory to moderate

Guided Cotswolds Walking Trip highlights

  • Walk through the heart of the Cotswolds countryside with an expert guide
  • Revel in the colours of an English summer garden at Snowshill Manor
  • Classic Cotswold Villages: Broadway, Painswick, Winchcombe
  • Visit Sudeley Castle, home of Katherine Parr, Henry VIIIs last wife
  • Spend a night in the Regency city of Bath & promenade along the Crescent
  • Hike parts of the Monarch’s Way and the Cotswold Way National Trail

Overview

Discover the timeless charm of the Cotswolds on this guided walking holiday. If you love exploring on foot, and enjoy taking time to appreciate the history and character of the places you visit, this journey is for you. Backed by 30 years of expertise, we have created the ultimate Cotswolds hiking trip blending our favourite trails, towns and English gardens. This is a holiday built for hikers, linking rolling countryside and classic trails with historic houses and heritage landmarks.

Each day you walk through the landscapes that define the Cotswolds; quiet farmland footpaths, riverside trails, ancient woodlands and scenic sections of the Cotswold Way, a British National Trail. Along the way, discover honey-coloured market towns like Stow-on-the-Wold, Chipping Campden and Painswick, where historic pubs and traditional village greens reflect England's rich rural heritage.

What sets this trip apart is the combination of great walks with unhurried visits to some of the area's most fascinating sights. Explore the celebrated outdoor rooms of Hidcote Manor Garden, wander the gardens of Snowshill Manor, visit the ruins of Hailes Abbey, discover the royal connections of Sudeley Castle and enjoy time in the unique Rococo Garden at Painswick.

With an expert guide handling the logistics and bringing the region's stories to life, you can unplug; walking through the heart of England at a pace that allows you to appreciate it.

Itinerary

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Make your way to the charming market town of Moreton-in-Marsh, one of the principal gateways to the Cotswolds and easily accessible by train (1h30) from London. Settle into your accommodation and take time to explore the town's historic high street, lined with handsome stone buildings, independent shops and traditional inns. If time permits, you may wish to visit nearby Batsford Arboretum, home to one of Britain's largest collections of trees and shrubs and a wonderful introduction to the gardens that feature throughout the week. Accommodation: Overnight in a historic 4-star hotel on the High Street.

Meals: Nil

Follow the Monarch’s Way, tracing the escape route of King Charles II after his defeat at the Battle of Worcester in 1651, across the high wolds to Stow-on-the-Wold. The “wolds” are the gentle rolling hills, and “cot” is the name of a sheep enclosure referencing back to the time this region built prosperity on the wool produced by its plentiful sheep. Following quiet footpaths and farm tracks, you will cross rolling countryside, pass through picturesque hamlets and enjoy far-reaching views across the surrounding hills. Your destination, the historic market town of Stow-on-the-Wold, is the highest of the Cotswold towns and renowned for its impressive market square, antique shops and centuries of wool trading history. After time to explore, transfer (included) to Chipping Campden for your overnight stay. Accommodation: Two nights in an 18th century inn with a friendly and welcoming atmosphere serving cask ales and home-cooked food.

Meals: B

Spend the morning exploring Chipping Campden, often considered one of the most beautiful towns in the Cotswolds. Its elegant high street showcases the wealth generated by the medieval wool trade and is lined with fine honey-coloured limestone buildings. From town, you will walk along footpaths and quiet roads through the surrounding countryside to Hidcote Manor Garden, one of England's most celebrated gardens. Created in the Arts and Crafts style, Hidcote is famed for its series of beautifully designed outdoor rooms, colourful borders and intimate garden spaces. Take time to explore the gardens created by Major Lawrence Johnston between 1907 and 1938. Entry to this National Trust property is included and you will have time to explore before taking a return transfer to Chipping Campden for a second night where you can settle into your inn for dinner.

Meals: B

Today you will walk the first section of the Cotswold Way. Starting at the Market Hall in Chipping Campden, the trail winds through agricultural land and open hills. Enjoy the view from Dover's Hill, passing through wheat fields and woodlands before the climb to Broadway Tower from where you can enjoy the panoramic view (entry included). Roll downhill to Broadway where you will be staying tonight. Broadway is often described as the "Jewel of the Cotswolds", renowned for its “broad” main street lined with honey-coloured limestone buildings, independent boutiques and inviting cafés. Accommodation: Overnight in a hotel in the heart of the town.

Meals: B

After a short included transfer, begin the day at Snowshill Manor and Garden. A fabulous 16th century house, it is a treasure trove of quirky and curious objects. The collection was created by Charles Wade, a man fascinated by anything hand-crafted and made with skill. There is a beautiful themed garden to walk through - established by Mackay Hugh Baillie Scott. Rejoining the Cotswold Way, walk from Snowshill to the atmospheric ruins of Hailes Abbey, a ruined 13th century Cistercian Monastery. This was a medieval site of pilgrimage on account of its revered relic, the “Holy Blood of Hailes”, a vial of blood reputedly from Christ and later discovered to be honey coloured with saffron. The monastery was destroyed as part of dissolution following Henry VIII’s Reformation in 1539. Note it is only possible to visit the Abbey on the first weekend of each month. Continue on foot through the Cotswold landscape towards the historic town of Winchcombe where you will spend two nights. Winchcombe is one of the Cotswolds' most historic market towns, with a rich heritage stretching back to Saxon times. Accommodation: Two nights in a 16th century former coaching inn in the heart of the town.

Meals: B

Today's circular walk showcases some of the finest scenery surrounding Winchcombe as you follow sections of the Cotswold Way through peaceful countryside. Along the route, visit Belas Knap Long Barrow, one of Britain's best-preserved Neolithic burial chambers. Dating back more than 5,000 years, this impressive monument offers a fascinating glimpse into prehistoric Britain and enjoys commanding views across the surrounding landscape. The walk also takes you to Sudeley Castle, one of England's most interesting historic estates. Set within beautifully landscaped gardens, the castle has played a significant role in British history for over a thousand years. It is perhaps best known as the home and final resting place of Katherine Parr, the last wife of Henry VIII, whose tomb can be found within the castle grounds. After time to explore the castle and gardens, return to Winchcombe for a second evening in this charming Cotswold town.

Meals: B

Transfer to the charming market town of Painswick, often known as the "Queen of the Cotswolds" for its elegant architecture and beautifully preserved streetscape. Take time to explore its narrow lanes, historic stone buildings and remarkable churchyard, famed for its ancient yew trees, before setting out on a walk to Painswick Rococo Garden. Created in the 18th century as a pleasure garden for entertaining guests, it is the country's only surviving Rococo garden, renowned for its whimsical design, hidden follies and beautifully landscaped grounds. It’s a short walk of around 1km out and back so there is plenty of time to explore, shop for souvenirs and enjoy Painswick, our teams’ favourite Cotswold town. Accommodation: Overnight in a comfortable hotel in the town centre.

Meals: B

Take a short transfer to Landsdown Hill and follow the final stage of the Cotswold Way through quiet countryside to enter the elegant World Heritage city of Bath. Explore the Roman Baths, Georgian architecture, Royal Crescent and beautiful city gardens. An extra night here to allow additional time to explore is highly recommended. Accommodation: Overnight in a centrally located guesthouse well-placed for exploration.

Meals: B

Tour arrangements end after breakfast. You can spend further time exploring Bath. Please speak to a member of our team should you wish to book additional nights’ accommodation. Trains depart from Bath Spa Station at regular intervals to London and other UK cities.

Meals: B

Ready to start your adventure?

2 scheduled departures between 4 Jun 2027 and 24 Sep 2027.

  • Departs 4 Jun 2027 – ends 12 Jun 2027 (9 days)
  • Departs 24 Sep 2027 – ends 2 Oct 2027 (9 days)
View dates to Book

What's included?

Included

  • 8 breakfasts
  • 8 nights B&B accommodation on a twin share basis usually with ensuite facilities
  • All transfers and transport specified in the itinerary
  • Entrance fees to Hidcote Manor Garden, Broadway Tower, Snowshill Manor, Sudeley Castle & Painswick Rococo Gardens
  • Experienced walking guide who will accompany the group throughout
  • One piece of luggage per person transferred from Inn to Inn, not exceeding 20kg
  • Digital information pack including Navigational App, route notes & maps
  • Emergency hotline

Not included

  • Lunches, dinners and drinks
  • Entrance fees not specified
  • Items of a personal nature
  • Travel insurance
  • A supplement will apply if you are travelling solo or book a single room

Video

Explore the Cotswolds by Foot or Bike

Extra trip info

AccommodationTrail surfacesWill My Trip Run?FAQs
Comfortable accommodation in the Cotswolds | Tim Charody

Hotels, guesthouses & country inns

You will stay in a variety of welcoming Cotswold hotels, inns and guesthouses, each selected for its local character, comfort and convenient location close to the walking route. Rooms include private bathrooms where available, along with facilities such as a TV and tea and coffee making supplies. Ensuite rooms cannot always be confirmed due to the small scale of rural properties. A hearty English breakfast is usually provided, and several accommodations also feature bars and restaurants serving locally sourced food. While we always aim to book the accommodations described, this is not guaranteed. In some cases, we may need to use a similar standard property nearby. Please note that in Bourton-on-the-Water, equivalent alternatives are limited.

The Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty that is the Cotswolds | Mabel Cheang

Natural Terrain on Countryside Paths

The trails wind through open countryside, farm land, fields, woodland and local villages. Many of the trails have been walked for centuries as a means of local travel. Generally the paths are well-worn, but they are mostly natural terrain which can be rocky and muddy if it rains when care must be taken. Walking boots are essential, and trekking poles are highly recommended.

Every departure date advises whether the date is confirmed, and roughly how full it is. Here is what each one means.

Is the departure confirmed?

Guaranteed to go This departure has reached its minimum number and will run.
It is the point travellers should wait for before booking any non-refundable flights.
Close to guaranteed This appears only when a date is close to reaching minimum numbers. If it shows 1 or 2 to guaranteed, book as a pair on a date needing two and it reaches its minimum. Your booking confirms the date for everybody already booked.

How full is the date I am looking at?

Space is filling or Space is filling fast This date has bookings and places are still open. Filling fast means limited spots available, so don't leave your decision too late.
Closing soon Down to its last few places, or close enough to departure that we are finalising numbers. Still bookable online.
Closed Not bookable online - either full, or inside the notice we need to arrange permits, flights and logistics. Ask us anyway, you never know!

Availability questions answered

Will this trip actually go ahead, or could it be cancelled?

If a date shows Guaranteed to go, it runs regardless of further bookings.

What does 2 to guarantee mean?

It means two travellers are enough to confirm the departure. It could be 2 more to add to the group, or the date only needs 2 people to run. Either way, if you book for two people, the date will become guaranteed to run.

What happens if my departure does not reach minimum numbers?

You will know the status before you book. Every date on this page is labelled, and dates marked “Guaranteed to go” are running regardless of further bookings. Where a date has not reached its minimum we either offer a surcharge to operate for a smaller group size so it can still run, or we cancel it. We contact you directly either way.

Will I get my money back if you cancel a departure?

If we cancel a departure due to not meeting minimum trip numbers, you receive a full refund of everything you have paid us less any non recoverable costs, where insurance may cover you. We cannot refund money committed elsewhere – additional non refundable deposits advised at the time of booking, flights, visas, vaccinations, gear - which is why it is worth waiting for “Guaranteed to go” before booking other arrangements around this trip date. Please read our Booking Terms and Conditions before you book.

Why can't I book some dates online?

Each trip closes online a set time before departure. Permits, internal flights and hut or campsite bookings all have to be arranged before we take payment. Call or enquire as it might still be possible to organise last minute places.

The date I want is closed. What are my options and why does it say to enquire?

Cancellations happen and places do open up on closed dates, so it is worth being on our list. We can also tell you which nearby date on the same trip has space, which is usually the faster route.

None of these dates suit me. Can you run this trip on another date?

Yes, as a private departure. We can run this trip on a date you choose, for your own group - family, friends, a club, or in many cases, just for the two of you. Tell us when you want to travel and who is coming, and we will build it around that.

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This trip is designed for walkers with a reasonable level of fitness who enjoy spending several hours on the trail each day. Daily walks range from 2km (1.2mi) to 14km (8.7mi) and follow a mixture of footpaths, country lanes and sections of the Cotswold Way National Trail. The pace is relaxed and there is plenty of time to enjoy the villages, gardens and historic sites along the route.

Walkers' Britain has been operating walking holidays in the Cotswolds for more than 30 years. This experience has enabled us to carefully craft an itinerary that combines the region's finest walking trails with its most rewarding villages, gardens and historic sites, all supported by knowledgeable guides and hand-picked accommodation.

Travelling with an expert guide allows you to focus on enjoying the walks while learning more about the landscapes, villages and history of the region. Your guide takes care of logistics, navigation and local arrangements, while sharing insights into the Cotswolds' wool-trading heritage, historic towns, gardens and walking trails.

The trip includes visits to some of the Cotswolds' most famous destinations, including Moreton-in-Marsh, Stow-on-the-Wold, Chipping Campden, Broadway, Winchcombe, Painswick and the World Heritage city of Bath. Each offers its own distinctive character, from historic market squares and honey-coloured cottages to elegant Georgian architecture.

Yes. The itinerary includes several sections of the Cotswold Way National Trail, one of England's most celebrated long-distance walking routes. Highlights include the walk from Chipping Campden to Broadway Tower and the final approach into Bath, offering classic Cotswold scenery and panoramic countryside views.

This holiday combines walking with visits to some of England's finest gardens and historic estates. Highlights include Hidcote Manor Garden, Snowshill Manor and Garden, Painswick Rococo Garden and Sudeley Castle, home to Katherine Parr, the last wife of Henry VIII. These visits provide a fascinating insight into English garden design, history and culture.

Responsible Travel

Regenerative Travel Project

At AMP Libearty Bear Sanctuary in Romania, rescued brown bears are given a second chance to live as they should—free to roam, forage and explore within a protected forest environment. The sanctuary provides lifelong care for bears rescued from captivity, offering a safe haven for animals that can no longer survive in the wild. Support for this project helps provide nutritious food, expert veterinary care and ongoing habitat management, ensuring every bear can live in dignity and comfort. The sanctuary also plays an important role in raising awareness about wildlife welfare, ethical tourism and the lasting impacts of animal exploitation.

Your support will help care for Jimmy, one of the sanctuary’s rescued residents. For 11 years, Jimmy was confined to a small concrete cage at a bread factory, deprived of the opportunity to behave naturally. Since his rescue, he has experienced the freedom of a natural forest habitat for the first time, feeling the earth beneath his paws and living alongside other rescued bears. By contributing to Jimmy’s ongoing care, you are helping transform the life of an individual animal while supporting the broader mission of protecting bears from cruelty and promoting compassionate wildlife conservation.

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