Exploring the Cotswolds – The Best Circular Walks
Nestled in the heart of England, the Cotswolds encompass nearly 800 square miles of captivating landscapes, picturesque villages, and an abundance of marked trails perfect for explorers of every caliber. This captivating region is renowned for its diverse network of circular walks, from the hiker-friendly Cotswold Way to more leisurely rural meanders. Here, we display the quintessential must-do walks in the Cotswolds that promise an invigorating mix of natural beauty, historical intrigue, and traditional English charm.
Cleeve Hill Ring
A kicking-off point for hiking in the Cotswolds is the highest of its hills – the Cleeve Hill. This romp is a moderate 6-mile round trip starting and ending at the prestigious Cleeve Hill Golf Club. On a clear day, this walk offers panoramic, unbeaten views stretching to Bristol and even across to Wales. With an abundance of plant life, a significant butterfly population, and numerous bird species, this walk is a treat for nature lovers and bird watchers alike.
Broadway Tower Circular
The Broadway Tower Circular Walk, which begins and ends in the historic village of Broadway, demonstrates the perfect harmony between nature and architecture. This walk covers just over 4 miles and takes you up to the second highest point in the Cotswolds – Broadway Tower. From there, you can enjoy the breathtaking vistas of farmlands, woods and red deer park. The tower, built in 1798, is also steeped in historical interest and is a marvel of 18th century design.
Bourton-on-the-Water and Lower Slaughter
This gentle 4-mile circular walk starts and ends in Bourton-on-the-Water, often referred to as the ‘Venice of the Cotswolds’ for its multiple bridged waterways. The route takes in two of the most charming Cotswold villages, linking Bourton, via a serene riverside walk, to the dreamy stone cottages of Lower Slaughter. The walk also passes by the Old Mill Museum, a 19th-century flour mill displaying local Cotswold history and vintage car exhibitions.
Cotswold Way Circular Walk: Chipping Campden
The 6-mile Cotswold Way Circular Walk begins and ends in the historic wool town of Chipping Campden. The trail is a miniature version of the larger Cotswold Way, providing a lovely taste of what the larger route offers. It takes walkers on a journey through time and nature, with standout attractions including long barrows, the Broadway Tower, and awe-inspiring views over the Severn Vale.
Blenheim Palace Park Perimeter
History lovers will be enchanted with the Blenheim Palace Park Perimeter walk, a delightful 4.6-mile trail around the grand estate. The UNESCO World Heritage Site is steeped in history with lineage dating back to the early 18th century. This walk gives a diverse taste of landscapes, from delicate gardens to dense forests and the majestic Great Lake.Winchcombe Circuit via Belas KnapEmbark on a 7.5-mile journey with the Winchcombe Circuit that takes in the long barrow of Belas Knap, a neolithic burial site dating back to 3000 B.C. With an ascent to the peaks of the Cotswold escarpment, this circular walk provides phenomenal views over the spectacular landscapes and valleys, and the ruins of a medieval castle – one for the history buffs!
Cotswold Way Circular Walk: Stanton, Snowshill, and Stanway
Last but not least, the 6.5-mile circular journey starting and ending in Stanton is a journey through timeless Cotswold charm. Thrilling downward slopes lead to the ancient village of Snowshill, notable for its manor packed with fascinating artefacts. Travellers then ascend through charming farmland before passing through Stanway and its watermill, the highest fountain in Britain.
The Cotswolds, with their honey-coloured stone architecture and rolling landscapes, offer a wealth of circular walks to suit everyone from seasoned hikers to leisure walkers. Each amble offers its natural rewards and tantalizing glimpses into local history and culture. Whether its vistas that stretch towards infinity, enchanted woods, tranquil riversides, or standing tall amongst architectural wonders, the Cotswolds have you well and truly covered. These circular routes ensure you’re never far from where you’ve started, and more importantly, you’re never far from an inviting local pub to refresh after your journey. The best of the Cotswolds will always be found on foot, each step a promise of discovery and every trail steeped in harmony with nature.