TRAVEL-GUIDES
Coolstays Guide to the Cotswolds
27th September 2022
Famous for its honey-coloured stone and picture postcard villages, the Cotswolds is classic weekend break territory. It conjures up dreamy images of escaping the city on Friday afternoon for a few well-spent days in a chic country house hotel and pootling along winding lanes in a soft top vintage sports car.
At a vast 800 square miles, spanning five counties along England's central south west, the Cotswolds is the Britain's largest area of outstanding natural beauty. That means there’s plenty of room to lose yourself among all the country pubs, smart boutiques and well-stocked farm shops.
Fancy a few days in this glorious corner of England? Here’s our guide to what to do and where to stay in the Cotswolds.
At a vast 800 square miles, spanning five counties along England's central south west, the Cotswolds is the Britain's largest area of outstanding natural beauty. That means there’s plenty of room to lose yourself among all the country pubs, smart boutiques and well-stocked farm shops.
Fancy a few days in this glorious corner of England? Here’s our guide to what to do and where to stay in the Cotswolds.
Top places to visit in the Cotswolds
The Cotswolds Way
Following the western edge of the Cotswold Hills, the Cotswolds Way is a 102 mile ramble taking you almost the Cotswolds' entire length, from the dainty market town of Chipping Campden in Gloucestershire, down to the city of Bath at the area's southern most point.
It would take about a week to walk the entire thing, so alternatively why not just choose the section nearest to you, or indeed the one which has the best pub along the way, and go for a gentle afternoon stroll, ending in a nice cold pint of cider.
Along the route you’ll pass through pretty villages and beech woods, past Neolithic tombs and the sites of Civil War battles. Clamber to the top of the Cotswolds escarpment for horizon scanning western views over the River Severn and the Malvern Hills.
It would take about a week to walk the entire thing, so alternatively why not just choose the section nearest to you, or indeed the one which has the best pub along the way, and go for a gentle afternoon stroll, ending in a nice cold pint of cider.
Along the route you’ll pass through pretty villages and beech woods, past Neolithic tombs and the sites of Civil War battles. Clamber to the top of the Cotswolds escarpment for horizon scanning western views over the River Severn and the Malvern Hills.
Highlights of the Cotswolds Way
- Chipping Campden – Begin in a picture-perfect market town of honey-stone cottages and historic guild buildings.
- Broadway Tower – Iconic hilltop folly with far-reaching views (on a clear day you can see for miles across multiple counties).
- Stanway & Stanton – Two postcard-pretty villages with thatched cottages, ancient churches and tranquil lanes.
- Belas Knap Long Barrow – Atmospheric Neolithic burial mound with sweeping countryside vistas.
- Cleeve Hill – Highest point on the trail, overlooking Cheltenham and the Severn Vale.
- Leckhampton Hill & Devil’s Chimney – Dramatic limestone scenery and panoramic escarpment views.
- Painswick – “Queen of the Cotswolds”; a lovely wool town ideal for a restorative stop.
- Coaley Peak (and Nympsfield Long Barrow) – Classic viewpoint across the Severn Valley and towards the Forest of Dean.
- Tyndale Monument (North Nibley) – Striking tower with big-sky views over rolling hills and hedgerows.
- Bath – Finish in a UNESCO World Heritage city of Roman Baths, Georgian crescents and lively culture.
How to get to the Cotswolds Way
- By car – Use the M5 and A46 for easy access; popular trailheads with parking include Chipping Campden, Broadway, Winchcombe, Painswick, Wotton-under-Edge and Bath (consider Park & Ride for the city).
- By train – Fast services from London Paddington to Moreton-in-Marsh (for the northern start), Cheltenham Spa (for central sections) and Bath Spa (for the southern end); link to trailheads by local bus or taxi.
- By bus – Local networks (e.g. services around Cheltenham, Stroud, Dursley, Wotton-under-Edge and Bath) connect towns and villages along/near the route—handy for linear day walks.
- By air – Nearest major airports are Bristol (best for Bath/south), Birmingham (best for the north) and London Heathrow; continue by rail, coach or car hire.
Castle Combe - Wiltshire
You can take your pick of beautiful Cotswolds villages - Snowshill, Upper Slaughter, Asthall. But Castle Combe, with its golden coloured cottages and idyllic Wiltshire views, is regularly named the prettiest village in England. Higgledy-piggledy cottages which look as if pixies probably live in them, a fifteenth century market cross and the River Bybrook meandering through, spanned by a beautiful and much-photographed bridge.
Incredibly, nothing new has been built here since 1600, making it just like stepping back in time - apart from all the tourists, film crews (it's been used as a location for Downton Abbey) and people getting the perfect shot for their Instagram.
Take a stroll through the village to the famous bridge, then back up to the market place, where you’ll find two classic pubs, the Castle Inn and the White Hart and an ancient church with tombs of Medieval knights within. One knight is depicted with his legs crossed, which apparently means he took part in the Crusades.
Incredibly, nothing new has been built here since 1600, making it just like stepping back in time - apart from all the tourists, film crews (it's been used as a location for Downton Abbey) and people getting the perfect shot for their Instagram.
Take a stroll through the village to the famous bridge, then back up to the market place, where you’ll find two classic pubs, the Castle Inn and the White Hart and an ancient church with tombs of Medieval knights within. One knight is depicted with his legs crossed, which apparently means he took part in the Crusades.
Highlights of Castle Combe, Wiltshire
- Historic beauty – Often called the prettiest village in England, with golden limestone cottages and timeless charm.
- Fifteenth-century market cross – The heart of the village, marking its medieval trading heritage.
- River Bybrook bridge – The iconic stone bridge is one of the most photographed spots in the Cotswolds.
- St Andrew’s Church – Home to Medieval tombs and the effigy of a Crusader knight with crossed legs.
- Film location fame – Featured in Downton Abbey, War Horse, and Stardust for its untouched authenticity.
- Traditional pubs – Enjoy a pint or a meal at The Castle Inn or The White Hart, both brimming with character.
- Walking trails – Follow scenic paths around the village and through the wooded Bybrook Valley.
How to get to Castle Combe
- By car – Just off the M4 (Junction 17), about 30 minutes from Bath or 20 minutes from Chippenham. Limited parking available near the village entrance.
- By train – Nearest station is Chippenham, with regular services from London Paddington and Bristol; from there, it’s a 15-minute taxi ride.
- By bus – Local buses run from Chippenham and Bath, though services are limited—check timetables in advance.
- By air – Bristol Airport is the closest (around 45 minutes by car); Heathrow is about 1 hour 45 minutes away.
Cooper’s Hill Cheese Rolling - Gloucestershire
This wonderfully bizarre and dangerous event takes place every year on the spring bank holiday at Cooper’s Hill near Brockworth, Gloucestershire.
The rules are simple: a 9 pound Double Gloucester round cheese is launched from the top of the very steep hill and the competitors go tumbling after it. Whoever catches the cheese, or crosses the finish line first is the winner, although with the cheese reaching speeds of 70 miles per hour, the chances of catching the thing are pretty slim. For safety reasons the Double Gloucester was replaced by a foam cheese a few years ago, however hospitalisation is not unheard of, with St John's Ambulance staff waiting at the bottom of the hill.
The rules are simple: a 9 pound Double Gloucester round cheese is launched from the top of the very steep hill and the competitors go tumbling after it. Whoever catches the cheese, or crosses the finish line first is the winner, although with the cheese reaching speeds of 70 miles per hour, the chances of catching the thing are pretty slim. For safety reasons the Double Gloucester was replaced by a foam cheese a few years ago, however hospitalisation is not unheard of, with St John's Ambulance staff waiting at the bottom of the hill.
Highlights of Cooper’s Hill Cheese Rolling, Gloucestershire
- Unique tradition – A world-famous (and slightly mad) annual event held on the spring bank holiday near Brockworth.
- The challenge – Competitors chase a 9lb round of Double Gloucester cheese down a dangerously steep hill.
- Thrills and spills – The cheese can reach speeds of up to 70 mph, sending participants tumbling head over heels.
- Historic roots – The tradition dates back hundreds of years, thought to have links to local pagan spring festivals.
- Foam replacement – For safety, the real cheese was swapped for a foam replica, though injuries remain common.
- Spectator sport – Thousands gather to watch the chaotic fun and cheer on the fearless runners.
- Community spirit – Local volunteers, St John’s Ambulance crews and long-standing competitors make it a true Gloucestershire institution.
How to get to Cooper’s Hill
- By car – Located near Brockworth, just off the M5 (Junction 11A). Follow signs to Coopers Hill or Crickley Hill Country Park. Parking is limited, so arrive early.
- By train – The nearest station is Gloucester, around 5 miles away. From there, take a taxi or local bus to Brockworth.
- By bus – Buses from Gloucester or Cheltenham stop near Brockworth; check local timetables around the spring bank holiday for updated routes.
- By air – Bristol Airport and Birmingham Airport are both within 1.5 hours’ drive; continue by car or train to Gloucester.
England's Oldest Pub - Stow-on-the-Wold, Gloucestershire
The Porch House in Stow-on-the-Wold, Gloucestershire is confirmed in the Guinness Book of Records as England’s oldest pub. Parts of this rambling old inn have been carbon-dated to 947 AD, when the building was believed to have been founded by the Saxon Duke of Cornwall, Athelmar, as a hospice for travellers and pilgrims.
It’s filled with a pleasing quantity of low timber beams, winding staircases and wonky door frames. You can even see witch marks, symbols intended to ward off evil spirits, carved into the 16th century fireplace in the dining room.
It’s filled with a pleasing quantity of low timber beams, winding staircases and wonky door frames. You can even see witch marks, symbols intended to ward off evil spirits, carved into the 16th century fireplace in the dining room.
Highlights of The Porch House, Stow-on-the-Wold
- England’s oldest pub – Officially recognised by the Guinness Book of Records, with origins dating back to 947 AD.
- Historic foundation – Believed to have been established by the Saxon Duke of Cornwall, Athelmar, as a hospice for travellers and pilgrims.
- Timeless charm – A beautiful jumble of low timber beams, winding staircases, and wonky door frames that ooze character.
- Witch marks – Look for carved symbols in the 16th-century fireplace, said to protect against evil spirits.
- Traditional fare – Enjoy hearty Cotswolds cuisine and local ales in a centuries-old setting.
- Central location – Perfectly placed in Stow-on-the-Wold, a historic market town with antique shops, galleries and tea rooms nearby.
How to get to The Porch House
- By car – Situated in Stow-on-the-Wold, easily reached via the A429 (Fosse Way) and A424. Public parking available in the town square.
- By train – The nearest station is Moreton-in-Marsh, around 5 miles away, with regular services from London Paddington. Taxis and local buses connect to Stow.
- By bus – Local routes link Stow-on-the-Wold with nearby towns such as Bourton-on-the-Water, Moreton-in-Marsh and Cheltenham.
- By air – Birmingham Airport and Bristol Airport are both around 1.5 hours’ drive; car hire or train connections via Moreton-in-Marsh make travel easy.
Westonbirt Arboretum - Near Tetbury, Gloucestershire
If you love trees - and who doesn't? - then you're in for a treat. Westonbirt, the National Arboretum, is a magical tree garden, one of the best in the world.
The story of Westonbirt began with Robert Holford, a wealth Victorian with a passion for plant collecting. He brought in exotic and beautiful trees from around the world and you can still see many of them at Westonbirt today.
There are 2500 species including some rare and endangered trees like the Bristol Whitebeam, which grows wild in the Avon Gorge and nowhere else, and Giant Sequoias over 40 metres tall.
Westonbirt is particularly famous for its vibrant autumn display as the thousands of trees change colour, making for a spectacular natural event and one of the best places in the UK to see the autumn leaves.
The story of Westonbirt began with Robert Holford, a wealth Victorian with a passion for plant collecting. He brought in exotic and beautiful trees from around the world and you can still see many of them at Westonbirt today.
There are 2500 species including some rare and endangered trees like the Bristol Whitebeam, which grows wild in the Avon Gorge and nowhere else, and Giant Sequoias over 40 metres tall.
Westonbirt is particularly famous for its vibrant autumn display as the thousands of trees change colour, making for a spectacular natural event and one of the best places in the UK to see the autumn leaves.
Highlights of Westonbirt Arboretum, Gloucestershire
- World-renowned tree garden – One of the finest arboreta in the world, home to over 2,500 species from across the globe.
- Victorian origins – Founded by Robert Holford, a passionate 19th-century plant collector who introduced exotic species to the estate.
- Rare and endangered trees – Spot unique specimens like the Bristol Whitebeam, found only in the Avon Gorge, and towering Giant Sequoias over 40 metres tall.
- Seasonal beauty – Stunning year-round, but especially magical in autumn when the foliage turns vivid shades of red, orange and gold.
- Family-friendly walks – Enjoy accessible trails, a treetop walkway, and picnic spots perfect for all ages.
- Educational experiences – Visitor centre, guided tours, and seasonal events that celebrate biodiversity and conservation.
How to get to Westonbirt Arboretum
- By car – Located near Tetbury in Gloucestershire, just off the A433. Parking is available on site and well signposted from nearby towns.
- By train – The nearest stations are Kemble (20 minutes’ drive) and Chippenham (30 minutes’ drive), both with links to London and Bristol.
- By bus – Limited services run from Tetbury and Bath; check local timetables, especially in off-peak seasons.
- By air – Bristol Airport is around an hour away; Birmingham Airport and Heathrow are also within easy reach by car or train.
Cheltenham - Gloucestershire
Cheltenham in Gloucestershire is a real gem, a handsome 18th century spa town with Regency charm round every corner. Mineral rich spring water was discovered in 1716 and after a visit from the ailing King George III, Cheltenham suddenly found itself transformed into a fashionable spa boom-town.
Nowadays it's a smart, lively place, named by the Sunday Times as 'the best place to live in the South West'. For a small town it punches well above its weight, filled with boutiques, coffee shops, gastro pubs, a Michelin starred restaurant, plus a calendar-full of events, and of course a long and noble association with the sport of kings.
The town is world famous for horse racing, so why not buy a big hat and treat yourself to a day of champagne and a few flutters at Cheltenham Racecourse, home to The Cheltenham Festival, the most prestigious jump racing event of the year and its grand finale, the legendary Gold Cup.
There's also plenty of arts and culture to be had, with literature, jazz and music festivals happening annually. In fact 30 festivals take place here every year - including a film festival and a balloon festival - so whenever you visit you'll be sure to find something interesting going on.
Nowadays it's a smart, lively place, named by the Sunday Times as 'the best place to live in the South West'. For a small town it punches well above its weight, filled with boutiques, coffee shops, gastro pubs, a Michelin starred restaurant, plus a calendar-full of events, and of course a long and noble association with the sport of kings.
The town is world famous for horse racing, so why not buy a big hat and treat yourself to a day of champagne and a few flutters at Cheltenham Racecourse, home to The Cheltenham Festival, the most prestigious jump racing event of the year and its grand finale, the legendary Gold Cup.
There's also plenty of arts and culture to be had, with literature, jazz and music festivals happening annually. In fact 30 festivals take place here every year - including a film festival and a balloon festival - so whenever you visit you'll be sure to find something interesting going on.
Highlights of Cheltenham, Gloucestershire
- Elegant spa heritage – A beautiful 18th-century Regency town, famed for its mineral-rich spring waters and grand architecture.
- Royal connection – Transformed into a fashionable spa resort after a visit from King George III in 1788.
- Stylish living – Named by The Sunday Times as the best place to live in the South West, thanks to its chic boutiques, coffee shops and fine dining.
- Culinary excellence – Home to a Michelin-starred restaurant and a thriving gastro pub scene.
- The Cheltenham Festival – One of the world’s premier horse racing events, culminating in the legendary Gold Cup.
- Festival town – Hosts over 30 festivals a year, from literature and jazz to science, film and balloons.
- Cultural scene – Packed with galleries, theatres and live music venues celebrating creativity all year round.
- Green spaces – Enjoy strolls through Pittville Park, Montpellier Gardens and the Promenade lined with Regency terraces.
How to get to Cheltenham
- By car – Easily reached via the M5 (Junctions 10 and 11) and A40; parking available throughout the town centre and at Cheltenham Racecourse.
- By train – Cheltenham Spa station has frequent services from London Paddington, Birmingham, Bristol and Cardiff. Taxis and buses connect to the town centre.
- By bus – National Express and local services operate regular routes from major UK cities including London, Bristol and Birmingham.
- By air – Bristol Airport and Birmingham Airport are both about an hour’s drive; connections by train or coach are also available.
Britain's Most Romantic Street - Lower Slaughter, Glocs
Copsehill Road was voted Britain's Most Romantic Street in a Google poll and whether or not you set much store in these sort of accolades, it certainly is a picturesque piece of pavement.
Located in the somewhat spookily named village of Lower Slaughter (the name comes from the Old English for 'wet land' apparently), Copsehill Road is a collection of charming sandstone cottages, flower-filled gardens and greenery set along on the banks of the River Eye as it winds through the village.
Have a nosey round the gorgeous village and check out the Old Mill Museum - built in the 18th century the mill is one of the village's newest buildings. Be sure to try the cafe's famously delicious gelato. Then amble the 20 minutes across the fields to Upper Slaughter.
Located in the somewhat spookily named village of Lower Slaughter (the name comes from the Old English for 'wet land' apparently), Copsehill Road is a collection of charming sandstone cottages, flower-filled gardens and greenery set along on the banks of the River Eye as it winds through the village.
Have a nosey round the gorgeous village and check out the Old Mill Museum - built in the 18th century the mill is one of the village's newest buildings. Be sure to try the cafe's famously delicious gelato. Then amble the 20 minutes across the fields to Upper Slaughter.
Highlights of Copsehill Road, Lower Slaughter
- Britain’s Most Romantic Street – Officially voted the title in a Google poll, and it’s easy to see why.
- Idyllic setting – A row of golden sandstone cottages and flower-filled gardens lining the peaceful River Eye.
- Historic charm – The village name “Slaughter” comes from Old English for wet land, not anything sinister!
- The Old Mill Museum – An 18th-century mill (one of the village’s “newest” buildings) now home to a quaint museum and café.
- Famous gelato – Don’t miss the Old Mill Café’s homemade ice cream – a local favourite.
- Scenic walk – Take a leisurely 20-minute stroll across the fields to Upper Slaughter, another impossibly pretty Cotswold village.
- Photography heaven – Every corner offers a postcard-perfect view, from stone bridges to riverside cottages.
How to get to Copsehill Road, Lower Slaughter
- By car – Located near Bourton-on-the-Water, just off the A429 (Fosse Way). Parking available at the village entrance or nearby Bourton.
- By train – The nearest station is Moreton-in-Marsh, around 8 miles away, with regular connections from London Paddington; taxis are available for the short onward journey.
- By bus – Local routes link Bourton-on-the-Water, Stow-on-the-Wold, and surrounding villages, though services are limited—check ahead.
- By air – Birmingham Airport and Bristol Airport are both around 1.5 hours by car; continue by train or hire car to reach the village.
The Cotswolds Lavender Farm - Snowshill, Worcestershire
If you visit the Cotswolds in June and July and you'll get to see the famous lavender fields of Hill Barn Farm. Seventy glorious acres of purple flowers swathe the hills as you drive from the village of Snowshill towards the farm.
Come the end of July to early August this magical carpet of mauve disappears when the crop is harvested, the sweet scented lavender oil distilled in the on-site distillery and turned into food, drink, bath and beauty products
You’re free to explore the 20 acres or so of lavender fields which are open to the public. Bring a picnic, wander the fragrant, bee-filled meadows and buy yourself a lavender flavoured ice-cream.
Come the end of July to early August this magical carpet of mauve disappears when the crop is harvested, the sweet scented lavender oil distilled in the on-site distillery and turned into food, drink, bath and beauty products
You’re free to explore the 20 acres or so of lavender fields which are open to the public. Bring a picnic, wander the fragrant, bee-filled meadows and buy yourself a lavender flavoured ice-cream.
Highlights of the Cotswold Lavender Fields, Snowshill
- Stunning seasonal spectacle – Seventy acres of vibrant purple lavender covering the rolling hills near Hill Barn Farm.
- Best time to visit – Peak bloom runs from mid-June to late July, when the fields are at their most fragrant and photogenic.
- Working lavender farm – Lavender is harvested from late July to early August, then distilled on-site into essential oils and artisanal products.
- Explore the fields – Around 20 acres are open to visitors, perfect for leisurely strolls and dreamy photos.
- Lavender ice cream – Treat yourself to this delicious local speciality at the farm shop or café.
- Picnic paradise – Pack a picnic and relax amid the hum of bees and the scent of summer in full bloom.
- Local crafts – Browse handmade lavender gifts, soaps, and beauty products in the on-site shop.
How to get to the Cotswold Lavender Fields
- By car – Located near Snowshill, just off the B4632 between Broadway and Stow-on-the-Wold. Free parking is available at the farm.
- By train – The nearest station is Moreton-in-Marsh, about 10 miles away; from there, take a taxi or local bus towards Broadway.
- By bus – Limited services run to Broadway and Snowshill; check seasonal timetables, especially during harvest time.
- By air – Birmingham Airport and Bristol Airport are both around 1.5 hours away by car; car hire is recommended for exploring rural locations like this.
Best time of year to visit the Cotswolds
The Cotswolds is a year-round destination, each season offering its own distinct charm — from blooming spring meadows to cosy winter pubs. The best time to visit depends on whether you’re chasing golden sunsets, festive markets, or tranquil country walks.
As the countryside awakens, the Cotswolds bursts into colour with blossom-filled lanes and lambs in the fields. It’s a peaceful time before the summer crowds arrive.
The height of the season brings long sunny days, lively markets and the famous Cotswold Lavender fields in full bloom. Expect busier towns but unbeatable scenery.
A stunning time to visit as the Cotswolds glows in shades of gold and crimson. Cooler temperatures and quieter lanes make for ideal walking weather.
Winter in the Cotswolds is pure magic – think frost-covered cottages, twinkling lights and roaring pub fires. Perfect for romantic getaways or festive retreats.
Spring (March – May)
As the countryside awakens, the Cotswolds bursts into colour with blossom-filled lanes and lambs in the fields. It’s a peaceful time before the summer crowds arrive.
- Enjoy – Wildflower walks, bluebell woods, and gardens in full bloom.
- Visit – Westonbirt Arboretum, Snowshill Manor and the villages of Upper and Lower Slaughter.
- Events – Cheltenham Jazz Festival and the Badminton Horse Trials.
Summer (June – August)
The height of the season brings long sunny days, lively markets and the famous Cotswold Lavender fields in full bloom. Expect busier towns but unbeatable scenery.
- Enjoy – Al fresco dining, river paddling, and open-air theatre.
- Visit – Hill Barn Farm Lavender Fields, Bourton-on-the-Water, and Broadway Tower.
- Events – Cotswold Show, Giffords Circus and Cheltenham Music Festival.
Autumn (September – November)
A stunning time to visit as the Cotswolds glows in shades of gold and crimson. Cooler temperatures and quieter lanes make for ideal walking weather.
- Enjoy – Autumn hikes, cosy pubs with log fires, and local harvest fairs.
- Visit – Painswick and Westonbirt Arboretum for incredible autumn colour.
- Events – Cheltenham Literature Festival and village harvest markets.
Winter (December – February)
Winter in the Cotswolds is pure magic – think frost-covered cottages, twinkling lights and roaring pub fires. Perfect for romantic getaways or festive retreats.
- Enjoy – Christmas markets, antique hunting, and hearty Sunday roasts.
- Visit – Stow-on-the-Wold, Broadway and Chipping Campden for traditional charm.
- Events – Cheltenham Races’ Gold Cup Trials and Christmas fairs in Cirencester and Bath.
How to Get to the Cotswolds
By Car
Driving is one of the easiest and most flexible ways to explore the Cotswolds, especially if you want to visit several of its picture-perfect villages and hidden gems. The area is well-connected by major roads, and scenic country lanes make for a beautiful journey.
- From London – Take the M40 or M4 west, then join the A40 or A429 towards Cheltenham, Cirencester or Stow-on-the-Wold.
- From Birmingham – Follow the M5 south and exit for Evesham or Tewkesbury for the northern Cotswolds.
- From Bristol or Bath – Head north on the M5 or A46 for easy access to Tetbury, Stroud and Painswick.
- Parking – Most towns and villages have public car parks; some smaller spots offer limited roadside parking.
By Train
Travelling by train is convenient and scenic, with several mainline stations offering access to different parts of the Cotswolds. Once there, local taxis or buses can help you reach your final destination.
- Moreton-in-Marsh – On the London Paddington to Hereford line; ideal for reaching Stow-on-the-Wold and Broadway.
- Cheltenham Spa – Serves the north and central Cotswolds, with regular trains from London, Birmingham and Bristol.
- Kemble – Closest station for Cirencester and southern Cotswolds villages.
- Bath Spa – Best for exploring the southern edge of the Cotswolds and combining with a city break.
By Bus or Coach
Though less frequent than trains, buses and coaches offer affordable travel to and within the Cotswolds. National Express and local routes connect major towns and villages.
- National Express – Runs direct services from London, Birmingham and Bristol to Cheltenham, Cirencester and Stroud.
- Local services – Stagecoach and Pulhams Coaches operate routes between market towns such as Bourton-on-the-Water, Stow-on-the-Wold and Moreton-in-Marsh.
- Tips – Check timetables carefully, especially on weekends or in smaller villages where services may be limited.
By Air
The Cotswolds doesn’t have its own airport, but several major UK airports are within easy reach. Car hire or onward train connections make travel simple from any direction.
- Bristol Airport – Around 1 hour’s drive to the southern Cotswolds (Tetbury, Stroud, Painswick).
- Birmingham Airport – About 1 hour 15 minutes to the northern Cotswolds (Broadway, Chipping Campden).
- London Heathrow – Approximately 1.5–2 hours by car or train via Reading and Oxford.
- Car hire – Recommended for exploring rural areas and linking multiple Cotswold towns in one trip.
Where to stay in the Cotswolds
Find the perfect base for exploring this quintessential part of England with our pick of the best places to stay - from luxurious family-size houses to romantic cottages for two.
FAQs about visiting the Cotswolds
Where exactly are the Cotswolds and how big is the area?
The Cotswolds cover about 800 square miles across Gloucestershire, Oxfordshire, Warwickshire, Wiltshire and Worcestershire in south-central England. It’s Britain’s largest Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, with dozens of towns and villages spread over rolling limestone hills.
What’s the best time of year to visit?
It’s a true year-round destination. Spring (Mar–May) brings blossom and lambs; summer (Jun–Aug) offers long days and the lavender fields in bloom; autumn (Sep–Nov) delivers spectacular colour at places like Westonbirt; winter (Dec–Feb) is cosy-pub season with Christmas markets.
Can I visit without a car?
Yes. Mainline trains reach gateways like Moreton-in-Marsh, Cheltenham Spa, Kemble and Bath Spa. From there, use local buses or taxis for short hops between towns. For linear day walks, combine trains and buses to start and finish in different places.
What are the must-see highlights for first-timers?
Mix a classic village (Castle Combe or Lower Slaughter), a viewpoint (Broadway Tower or Cleeve Hill), a heritage stop (Stow-on-the-Wold and The Porch House), and a nature fix (Westonbirt Arboretum). If you like a challenge, sample a section of the Cotswold Way.
How long does it take to walk the Cotswold Way?
The national trail is 102 miles from Chipping Campden to Bath. Most walkers allow about a week end-to-end, but it’s easy to cherry-pick short sections for half-day or day walks near towns like Broadway, Winchcombe, Painswick or Wotton-under-Edge.
When are the Cotswold lavender fields at their best?
Typically mid-June to late July. Harvest usually begins late July into early August, when the colour fades. Plan photo stops and picnics before harvest for the most vibrant purple.
What events should I plan around?
Headliners include The Cheltenham Festival (jump racing, March), Cheltenham Jazz (spring), Literature (autumn) and Music festivals, plus quirky traditions like Cooper’s Hill Cheese Rolling on the spring bank holiday.
Where should I base myself for a weekend?
For northern villages and escarpment walks, base near Chipping Campden, Broadway or Stow-on-the-Wold. For southern towns and Westonbirt, try Tetbury or Painswick. Bath works well if you want a city stay with easy access to southern Cotswolds.
Is the Cotswolds dog-friendly?
Very. Many pubs, cafés, and hotels welcome dogs, and there are endless footpaths. Keep dogs on leads around livestock and follow local signage, especially during lambing season.
Any practical tips for driving and parking?
Use park-and-ride for Bath and arrive early in honeypot villages where spaces are limited. Country lanes are narrow—drive slowly, be ready for passing places, and avoid blocking gateways or verges.