Located in the Cotswold House Hotel, Fig is one of the more formal dining options available in Chipping Campden. You can choose between a 2-course, 3-course, or tasting menu for your dining pleasure. The style of the food is modern Italian with a Mediterranean flair. This popular restaurant is in high demand, so it would be wise to book in advance.

With a building dating back to 1720, Michael’s Mediterranean is located in the heart of Chipping Campden. Relax and dine on the terrace in the summer or by the open fires when it gets chilly. Michael’s offers traditional Greek dining, including fresh seafood and fillet steaks that are locally sourced.

In the heart of Stanton village, sample classic pub dishes such as bangers and mash, or a locally reared beef dish such as steak and ale pie or a juicy sirloin steak. You can also sample several of the cask ales available at the Mount Inn brewed at the nearby Donnington Brewery at Stow on the Wold.

Just off of High Street is the place to go for great fish & chips. Only the freshest of fish is served at this restaurant. If you have never tried mushy peas before, you must try them now. They taste better than they sound! Dine in and talk with the friendly staff or take away back to your accommodation.

If you want a few more dining options than the traditional go-to, you can head a bit outside of Birdlip to the Golden Heart Inn. Here they serve a comprehensive menu that has something for everyone, including vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, and more exotic dishes. You can try their barn bar for private dining. There is a coffee lounge and a gorgeous patio overlooking the valley, truly something for everyone!

Designed for food lovers, the Painswick is the best place to share, as they feature a Smorgasbord style of dining. Be tempted by their ricotta dumplings, Cornish cod, beef wellington, and everything else that their delightful menu has to offer. Vibrant and delicious food in a charming setting will leave you with a smile on your face.

The Corner House prides itself on fresh ingredients. Their goal is to create delicious and flavourful foods that will make your taste buds sing. You can try their smoked duck breast, vegetable spring rolls, and lamb cutlets without breaking the bank. You will leave full and satisfied!

Kings Head Pub is located at the sister inn to the Swan Inn. If you are looking for hearty and filling traditional English food, then look no further. Using locally sourced produce, the Kings Head Pub includes a seasonal menu with all the freshest and most vibrant dishes. Try Angus beef from Bledington and fresh fish from Cornwall. If you already ate and just want a drink, pop over to the bar and ask the bartender for their recommendation on a good beer!

This fabulous neighbourhood restaurant is where you go when you want to just pop in for a delicious bite to eat. Stop by for a snack and a glass of wine or go for a whole dinner. La Campagna serves a mixture of classic and modern Italian delicacies. Of course there is pizza, but you can also try one of their meat and fish dishes that feature mushrooms, goat cheese, risottos, along with a long list of cocktails. Make sure to save room for one of their fancy desserts to end the night with.

The Bantam Tea Rooms and Guest House is a traditional English tea room that now offers an exceptional bed and breakfast. Built in 1693, the Bantam Tea Rooms has a splendid view over the 17th Century Market Hall in the charming village of Chipping Campden. Their in-house bakery is a favourite for all and tempts many people to stop by for delicious treats. Guests enjoy stylish rooms and a cosy atmosphere.

Over 400 years old, The Old Post House is a classic Cotswold honey coloured stone cottage. Comfortable rooms combined with a delicious homemade breakfast makes for a great stay. The Old Post House is located in the village of Stanton (on the Cotswold Way route) and is a few minutes from the local ‘Mount Inn Pub’.

Cleeve Hill Hotel prides itself on being friendly and welcoming to all, especially walkers. Perched on the slopes of Cleeve Hill. Large and comfortable rooms with powerful showers make for a splendid end to a long day of walking. On top of that, cookies and cake will be waiting for you at check-in, and a freshly prepared breakfast is available in the morning before you begin the next leg of your journey.

Located in Birdlip, the Royal George Hotel offers friendly and excellent service. Enjoy this 18th-century hotel in all of its splendour, from the 34 unique rooms and an in-house restaurant with a lovely bar. Crisp white linens and satellite TV await you in your room if you simply want to relax. Or you can pop down to the restaurant to feast on pub classics such as steaks, burgers, and lighter fare. While you are there, make sure to try a glass or ale of sip on a glass of fine wine. When you arise, take advantage of their free Full English or continental breakfast before starting your day.

Tibbiwell Lodge was built with you in mind. While it is only 200 yards from the centre of Painswick, this lodge is nestled off to the side, giving it privacy and magnificent views over the valley. Keeping walkers in mind, Tibbiwell has a drying room for wet clothes as well as a dedicated boot washing station to help you get cleaned up at the end of the day!

Valley Views is the epitome of a tranquil location. Located in the village of Middleyard, this guest house is surrounded by stunning natural beauty. With only three rooms available, Valley Views prides itself on providing outstanding service and comfort. Recently renovated, each room boasts comfortable and high-quality furnishing, free Wi-Fi, and unique amenities. In addition, every morning you will be served a home-cooked hearty English breakfast, or a lighter meal if preferred, to start your day off right.

Located in Swinbrook, the Swan Inn is an effortlessly charming and beautiful location to enjoy on your walking holiday. Nestled on the banks of the Windrush River, this picturesque inn will continue to surprise you with its fantastic features. Take advantage of their excellent restaurant that uses locally sourced ingredients to create delicious meals. If you happen to be there on a Wednesday, then you can sample their gourmet burgers on Burger Night. You can even pop on down to their sister inn, The King’s Head, for a glass of ale at their pub.

If you are curious about what old England looked like, then look no further than The Dog Inn. Over 500 years old, this inn still holds all of the characteristics that 500 years of history can provide. Located on the Cotswold Way Walk, this is the most charming accommodation of your walking holiday. During your stay, make sure to taste a dish from their fresh fish board. If fish is not your style, they also provide a hearty and traditional menu that will fill you to the brim.

Located just beyond Cold Ashton, Hill Farm is secluded from everything to provide you with a quiet and peaceful night’s rest. Initially, Hill Farm was a working farm but was converted into a high-quality accommodation and workshop. Hill Farm only allows for two people at any time so that you can truly enjoy getting away from it all. A super king-size bed will be waiting for you (it can be converted to two singles) as well as a delicious local meal prepared in advance. If you wake up early, they will provide you with all the ingredients to prepare your own English breakfast just how you like it, or you can choose a simpler continental breakfast. This stay will be unlike any other!

Winning the 2019 Recognition of Excellence award, the Henrietta House is a perfect end to your walking holiday. This grand Georgian townhouse originated in the 1780s when this area of Bath was first being built. Its tranquil and central location makes it a favourite among tourists; also, their white linen breakfasts add a delicious beginning to every day. With 21 unique rooms designed with traditional furnishings and modern amenities, your stay will surely be lovely and relaxing.

The closest airports to starting any of our walking tours in the Cotswolds are London Heathrow and Birmingham.

To reach either Chipping Campden or Moreton in Marsh from London Heathrow, we would suggest taking the Heathrow Express train directly to London Paddington (15 min journey) and change for train services to Moreton in Marsh (approx. 1hr 45min journey time from Paddington). Onward to Chipping Campden is 20 minute taxi journey or 30 minute bus journey.

From Birmingham Airport
To reach Moreton in Marsh, you can take the train from Birmingham Airport International Station and change in Oxford for services to Moreton in Marsh. Total journey time is around 2hrs 30mins.

If your walk starts in Chipping Campden, take the train from Birmingham International Airport to Leamington Spa. Change here for a bus service to Chipping Campden. Total journey time is around 3 hours.

For the Cotswold Way:
Depending on your onward travel plans, we would suggest parking in Bath and taking the bus and train back to the start town of Chipping Campden. Journey time is around 4 hours.

Cotswolds Villages, Trails & Stratford-upon-Avon:
Park in Stratford upon Avon (the end destination of this tour) and take the 1-hour bus journey to Moreton in Marsh (there are 6 bus services running throughout the day).

To get from London to Bath via car you will begin by taking the A4 to the M4. From there you will follow the M4 to A46 in South Gloucestershire and take exit 18. Continue on A46 and drive to A3039 in Bath. This journey will take approximately 2.5 hours.

To drive from Manchester to Bath, begin my following A5103 to M56 in Wythenshawe. Take M6 and M5 to A46 in South Gloucestershire. Next, take exit 18 from M4 and continue on A46. Drive to A 3039 in Bath. Approximate travel time will be about 3.5 hours.

Come a day early or arrive in the morning before your tour begins to have plenty of time to explore Chipping Campden. On top of being the starting point for the Cotswold Way, this ancient town boasts a plethora of beautiful buildings such as the Silk Mill, the Woolstaplers Hall, and the Market Hall. In addition, throughout spring and summer, there are many festivals and events in town that you can schedule your walk around.

Stratford-upon-Avon is primarily known as the birthplace of William Shakespeare. As you pass through this town, you can visit the house where he was born and raised, which also contains an exhibition of his life. In town, you can visit other vital locations in Shakespeare’s life such as Anne Hathaway’s cottage, the Holy Trinity Church, New Place, Hall’s Croft, and Mary Arden’s House. If you want to experience more, you can see a play at the Royal Shakespeare Company or try the hop-on/hop-off bus tour.

Dover’s Hill sits less than two kilometres away from Chipping Campden. This natural amphitheatre boasts spectacular views of the countryside. On a sunny day, you may be able to see across the Vale of Evesham all the way to the Malvern Hills. This is a lovely spot to eat a snack or grab a drink as you enjoy the view.

The Tower of Broadway is an iconic landmark known for its dramatic appearance and outlook. Perched on top of the Cotswolds escarpment, on a clear day you can see 16 counties at the top of the tower. You may even get to spot their resident herd of red deer. Completed in 1798, this tower has a rich and diverse history. It has served as a holiday retreat for the members of the Arts and Crafts movement, it has housed a printing press, and been home to a series of tenant farmers. Now you can tour the three floors of exhibitions and learn about its fascinating history.

There is more to this charming little town more than meets the eye. You can stroll down High Street past the horse chestnut trees to look at the stone cottages and period houses. In town, you can visit the Broadway Museum & Art Gallery, wander through the unique shops, and visit some of their scrumptious eateries.

Stanton village is about as tiny as it gets. Its streets are lined with well preserved thatched cottages which date back several centuries. It even dates back to the Domesday Book of 1086. Many visitors are drawn to the ancient Church of St. Michael’s & All Angels; while they are not certain on how old the church is, they have found evidence of architecture that dates back to 1200 C.E. If you have time, you can stop by the Village Club for a drink.

The Stanway House is an incredible example of what a Jacobean manor house is like. Originally owned by Tewkesbury Abbey for 800 years, it was then owned by the Tracy family for the next 500 years. A family, Lord and Lady Neidpath, call the Stanway House their home today. Can you imagine living in a home that is over 1000 years old with the tallest water fountain in Britain (over 300 feet) sitting in your very own water garden?

Founded by the Earl of Cornwall in 1246, the 13th century Cistercian Abbey was once a centre for monastic life. Now, all that is left are magical ruins and a story that will amaze you. When you visit the abbey ruins, you can also check out the museum housing the treasures of Hailes, take an audio tour, or simply enjoy a picnic on the grounds.

Take a step back in time and explore the village of Winchcombe. You can meander down Castle or Vineyard Street and gaze at the Cotswold stone cottages. If you like shopping, you can window shop or purchase a souvenir from their boutique clothing, antiques, and specialty stores. Walkers are welcome in Winchcombe; they have provided endless and beautiful footpaths to guide you through the village. Lastly, you must save time to stop at Sudeley Castle and the famous church.

On the edges of Winchcombe lies Sudeley Castle. This castle holds over 1000 years of history featuring England’s royalty; this includes King Henry VIII, Anne Boleyn, Queen Elizabeth I, and Richard III. Queen Katherine Parr, King Henry VIII’s last and surviving wife, died in the castle and remains there to this day, making it the only privately-owned castle in all of Britain to have a queen buried on the grounds. Today, the castle is owned by Lady Ashcombe and her family as they continue the preservation of the castle and its gardens for everyone to enjoy for years to come.

Cleeve Hill is the highest point in Gloucestershire and in the Cotswold Hills. Located on the north-eastern edge of Cheltenham, the Cotswold Way passes right through it. Hike to the top of the hill and you can gaze out over the jaw-dropping views. On a clear day, the view can extend all the way from the Malvern Hills to the Black Mountains of Wales. There is also a viewpoint, a local favourite, for astronomical events. Just keep an eye out for the sheep who graze in this area.

The Malvern Hills is a large area of land designed for walkers to explore nature. Taken care of by the Malvern Hills Trust Charity, the gorgeous English countryside holds everything, from peaceful riverside walks to more difficult treks along the ridge. You could spend days just exploring the Malvern Hills!

The Devil’s Chimney holds unknown origins and many legends about how it came to be. Located on the trails of Leckhampton Hill, you can see over the Vale of Gloucester when visiting this fascinating twisted limestone formation. Some believe that it was created by a fanciful shepherd or a bored quarry worker. Others believe that it is the home of the devil. They say that long ago, the Devil used to sit atop Leckhampton Hill and throw stones at pilgrims on their way to church. His evil ways backfired when the stones flew back at him and buried him, forming the chimney that imprisoned him.

Crickley Hill is known for its brutal history. While you may see a gorgeous countryside and wildflowers dotting the hills, recent archaeological excavations have revealed a long and savage history. The first structure on this hill dates back to 3500-2500 BC. It was rebuilt many times due to being continuously attacked and was eventually abandoned. History repeated itself during the Iron Age as over 400 arrowheads were found there, demonstrating yet another horrific battle. Now this landmark is visited for its fantastic views and wildlife.

Birdlip Village sits in a historical centre dating back thousands of years. Scattering the area are settlements or burial sites from the times of the Neolithic, Bronze, and Iron Ages. In 1879, workmen discovered three skeletons with pre-roman bracelets, bowls, necklaces, broaches, and a hand-mirror. This was considered the most prestigious groups of pre-Roman metalwork ever found in Britain. Now, Birdlip is an adorable village where many tourists come to take advantage of the proximity to wildlife and the abundance of local history. You can shop through the quaint stores, visit the tourist hotspots, or grab a beer at a local pub.

Along your walking holiday, you will get to pass through Cooper’s Hill Nature Reserve. This land was purchased in 1967 to prevent further spoliation of the area due to quarrying and was converted into a reserve in 1970. As you walk, you will observe the limestone grasslands, the famous beech trees, and stunning views overlooking the surrounding countryside. Plus, you will pass by the Iron Age hillfort, which is one of the largest in Gloucestershire.

The town of Painswick is known as “The Queen of the Cotswolds.” Sitting atop a magnificent hill, this town has historical roots in the wool industry. Now, this town has become a popular tourist destination, especially for walkers given that it is located about halfway along the Cotswold Way. Traditional stone cottages line the roads, with flowers intermingling with houses and paths. This place is a photographer’s dream, and it was the location for the BBC TV adaptation of J.K. Rowling’s “The Casual Vacancy.” If you decide to watch the show, you will get a sneak peek of what the town looks like in the opening scenes.

Haresfield Beach Estate is open to the public and contains a vast area of woodlands and grasslands. As with all of the Cotswold, the views are incredible. You will be able to see across the River Severn and all the way to the Forest of Dean on the Welsh border. There is more than just nature, you can also learn about the estate and the archaeological features still present to this day.

Located in the town of Kings Stanley, this wool mill is famous! It is a grade I listed building, shaped like a “Z”, and was the first fire-proof mill ever built. It worth taking a moment to see this incredible building with its interior rows of iron supporting columns. Nearby you can also visit a famous church, local shops, village greens, and more!

Coaley Peak makes an idyllic location to stop for lunch along the Cotswold Way. This area was once privately owned and closed to the public, a quiet park with the Woodchester Mansion hidden within. Today the area is owned by the National Trust and is open to everyone for free. Sniff the wildflowers, let the breeze blow through your hair, and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

Standing high on the scarp of the Cotswold is Nympsfield Long Barrow. Built during the Neolithic period, it has a strange assortment of legends and stories. Excavations of the barrow happened three times over the past two centuries, where thirteen skeletons were found along with pottery. You can visit this chambered mound when you reach the peak. You can also stop here for lunch as there are many picnic tables available that will allow you to relax, eat, and enjoy the spectacular view.

Centred around an 18th century market house, which now serves as the Town Hall, is the lovely village of Dursley. Surrounded by hills and sitting on the Cotswold Way Trail, this village has become a hot spot for tourism. You can attend workshops, view exhibitions, visit the Prema Arts Centre, taste traditional English food, and shop at the unique stores. Dursley is a terrific place to explore and relax.

Perched on top of Nimbley Knoll is the Tyndale Monument. Built in 1866, the Tyndale Monument was dedicated to the first man to translate The Bible into English, martyr William Tyndale. Numerous paths lead to the top where you will see sweeping views all the way to the Bristol Channel.

Blenheim Palace is one of the most stunning palaces in all of Britain. Visitors come from far and wide to learn about 300 years of palace history. Birthplace to one of Britain’s greatest leaders, Sir Winston Churchill, visitors can walk in his footsteps and follow the trails he once roamed. There is something for everyone here from organ recitals to buggy tours. It will take all day, so make sure to have plenty of time to explore! To visit Blenheim Palace, we’d suggest taking an overnight stay in Oxford first.

The Rococo Garden in Painswick is one of the most glorious and elaborate gardens that you will ever see. In each season, different flowers appear in the well-maintained and loved gardens. Stroll through the vibrant colours and enjoy the curated art exhibition designed to complement the garden’s history. If you are a garden lover, then you will find nothing better in all of the Cotswold.

Located in Bath, the Holburne Museum attracts art lovers from around the world. In 1793, Sir Thomas William Holburne founded this art collection and it has continued to grow over ever since. After major reconstruction, the Holburne is once again open to the public and welcomes over 120,000 visitors each year. Check out the classics or visit one of the exhibitions for a lovely day of history and culture!

The Victoria Art Gallery has something for everyone in its gallery. With ever-changing displays and events, there is always something going on! Walk through the gallery, talk with the kind staff, or participate in an event. There are even summer activities present for children to get involved in the art world!

Founded in 2006, the Cotswold Cheese Company has become the talk of the town. This little shop made a name for itself quickly and soon expanded to other stores in the Cotswold area. With over 120 different cheeses, no cheese lover can pass up the opportunity!

The Prema Arts centre is a family-friendly location that hosts live performances, music, and art exhibitions. Tourists can participate in workshops, classes, and creative experiences for both children and adults. There is always something new happening: yoga, dance classes, and concerts just to name a few! See what is happening when you are there and drop on in!

This is not your average water park. With over 150 lakes in a 10,360 sq. Hectare area, the Cotswold Water Park is extraordinary. As a centre for biodiversity protection, wildlife protection, and conservation, the park is more than just a tourist centre, but tourism is what helps to keep all of these projects funded. When you visit the Cotswold Water Park, take advantage of the gorgeous views, fantastic wildlife, and all the amenities that the park has to offer.