Travelling to the Cotswolds
Rolling green hills, honey-coloured villages, and meandering country lanes, the Cotswolds provide a quintessential escape into rural England. Spanning five counties and home to some of the UK’s most enchanting towns, this region is celebrated for its timeless charm and peaceful atmosphere.
Travelling to the Cotswolds
Rolling green hills, honey-coloured villages, and meandering country lanes, the Cotswolds provide a quintessential escape into rural England. Spanning five counties and home to some of the UK’s most enchanting towns, this region is celebrated for its timeless charm and peaceful atmosphere.
Whether you’re dreaming of a serene countryside retreat or looking to add a relaxing stop to your wider UK adventure, our bespoke Cotswolds travel plans ensure you make the most of this unforgettable destination.
Why Visit the Cotswolds?
Designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the Cotswolds are renowned for their picture-perfect villages, cosy pubs, and breathtaking walking trails. It’s a place to slow down, breathe deeply, and immerse yourself in the scenery.
Each village and town has its own unique appeal: think antique shops in Stow-on-the-Wold, riverside walks in Bourton-on-the-Water, and ivy-clad cottages in Bibury. With a growing selection of artisan cafés, independent boutiques, and historic estates, the Cotswolds offer the perfect countryside escape.
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Things to See and Do in the Cotswolds
From leisurely hikes to hearty pub lunches, the Cotswolds are brimming with activities. Here are some highlights:
- Bibury – Often hailed as England’s prettiest village, with its iconic Arlington Row cottages.
- Bourton-on-the-Water – Known as the ‘Venice of the Cotswolds’ for its charming river and low stone bridges.
- Stow-on-the-Wold – A historic market town filled with antique shops and welcoming tearooms.
- Broadway Tower – A hilltop viewpoint offering stunning panoramas and a perfect photo opportunity.
- Chipping Campden – Famous for its traditional high street and arts and crafts heritage.
- Cotswold Wildlife Park – A family favourite, home to giraffes, rhinos, and other fascinating animals.
- Country Walks – Miles of scenic trails, especially along the renowned Cotswold Way.
Whether you prefer to explore on foot, by car, or by bicycle, we’ll help you find the perfect pace for your visit.
Day Trips and Getting There
The Cotswolds are a popular choice for day trips from London, easily accessible by train, car, or guided tour. Train journeys to Moreton-in-Marsh or Kemble take under two hours, and we can arrange transfers or self-drive options from there.
For those with more time, the Cotswolds make a delightful stop on a longer journey through southern England, pairing beautifully with destinations like Bath, Oxford, or Stratford-upon-Avon.
We offer both full and half-day itineraries for those short on time, as well as extended stays for travellers looking to unwind and explore the region in greater depth.
Cotswolds Travel Tips
Stratford’s walkability is one of its greatest charms. Most key Stay overnight: While a day trip is possible, staying in a local inn or B&B allows you to experience the area at its most peaceful and magical.
Eat local: The Cotswolds are known for exceptional food—think farm shops, gastropubs, and seasonal produce.
Dress comfortably: With cobbled streets and country paths, comfortable footwear is essential.
Bring a camera: From ancient churches to rolling hills dotted with sheep, there’s beauty at every turn.
Our tailored itineraries include carefully selected places to eat, stay, and explore, ensuring your time in the Cotswolds is as effortless as it is memorable.
Book a Trip to the Cotswolds
Whether you’re planning a day trip from London, a family holiday, or a romantic countryside escape, we’ll help you create the perfect itinerary.
Our Cotswolds packages include:
- Accommodation in charming villages or historic market towns.
- A personalised itinerary featuring the best things to do in the Cotswolds.
- Travel arrangements from London or other UK cities.
- Local recommendations and scenic walking routes.
- Optional car hire or guided transport.
With Great British Trips, exploring the Cotswolds is simple, scenic, and stress-free.
Ready to uncover one of England’s most beautiful regions?
Start planning your Cotswolds adventure →