Away from the hustle and bustle of city life, an escape to the Cotswolds is always a welcome break. Whether youre travelling as a family, a couple or as a group theres one activity you have to participate in, and best of all its free. Home to some of the UKs best country walks, a stay in a luxury Cotswold cottage wouldnt be complete without exploring the local area on foot. Whether youre a regular visitor or a newcomer to this glorious part of the country, these are some of the best Cotswold country walks on offer.
1. The Cotswold Way
Lets start with one of the most well-known (and longest) of the Cotswold walks the Cotswold Way. Totalling an impressive 102 miles, the trail begins at Chipping Camden and ends in Bath. Whilst attempting the entire route may be a bit excessive for one weekend (it generally takes 7-10 days to complete!), the great thing about the Cotswold Way is that it features many smaller walks which will take you through different villages as well as along many historical sites. Some must-see spots include Chedworth Roman Villa, dating back to 120AD whilst the Roman Baths in Bath are also worth a visit. As a beautiful trail, there is plenty to see along the way for both short and long walks. Where to stay: Watery Park Barn is located near Chipping Campden, making it an excellent base to begin your adventure. Sleeping up to 18, this Cotswold converted barn offers plenty of home comforts to enjoy after a day on the Cotswold Way.
2. The Cleeve Hill & Common Walk
At 6.5 miles, The Cleeve Hill & Common Walk (also called the The Cleeve Hill Ring) may be one of the shorter walks in the Cotswolds, but it does take you across the areas highest common. When the weather is clear it is possible to see both the Malverns and Wales from the top of Cleeve Hill. There is plenty to see including limestone grassland which is home to a number of bird species, as well as plenty of wildflowers. Where to stay: Elgin, near Winchcombeis the best place to pick up The Cleeve Hill Walk. This attractive barn conversion sleeps 4 and is located down a private road in Gretton Fields, providing a good base for exploring the North Cotswolds.
3. The Stanton, Snowshill & Stanway Walk
The variety of walks in the Cotswolds means that there are ample to choose from depending on your interests. A pub walk like this 8-mile trail, is one that appeals to many. The walk begins at The Mount Inn pub in Stanton, which is one of the more unspoiled villages in the Cotswolds, passing a number of other country pubs before circling round through Snowshill and Stanway, which are both beautiful National Trust spots. Featuring impressive manor houses, there is plenty to see on this walk, including the Neolithic Shenberrow Hill Fort before you return to The Mount Inn where you can enjoy traditional British pub food after this leisurely walk. Where to stay: Top Cottage in Broadway is one of our newest properties and is just a short drive from Stanton, or it can be added to your walk in under an hour. It is located near a number of shops as well as great places to eat, and sleeps 4 for the perfect small group or family getaway.
4. The Winchcombe Way
If youre planning on enjoying a longer stay in the Cotswolds, then The Winchcombe Way is a great long-distance walk to enjoy during your break. Totalling an impressive 42 miles across a figure-of-eight trail, you can see many of the Cotswolds best sites whilst passing through a variety of landscapes. You will see the Farmcote valley, Guiting Wood, Stanway, Hailes Abbey and Cleeve Common and the spectacular Sudeley Castle. Where to stay: Oat Hill Coach House in Snowshillis a beautifully renovated Cotswold home which sleeps 6. Situated on the route ofthe Winchcombe Way, it has many modern facilities to ensure a memorable getaway.
5. The Windrush Way
If youre looking for a more challenging walk which can be done in just a day, then the Windrush Way is ideal. Its a circular walk which totals 14 miles, passing through lost medieval spots, and the River Windrush. You can pack a picnic and stop for lunch in Hawling or Cold Aston. Alternatively, it you're seeking something more substantial, you can stop at The Black Horse Inn in Naunton. This walk is a great way to see many picturesque Cotswold sights, whatever the weather and provides another opportunity to see Sudeley Castle, which is a view not to be missed. Where to stay: The Old Brewery provides the perfect stay for groups, sleeping up to 10. Located near Stow on the Wold, it is a beautiful property which is hidden away to provide a great escape for your stay. With large grounds of its own, there is plenty to explore as well as many luxurious amenities. Cotswold country walks really are a must when staying in any of our cottages (at least we think so). With many established routes it is possible to find a trail for all tastes and abilities, or you can create your own trail and see where the paths will lead you. Wherever you want to explore, theres a Jigsaw Holidays property nearby to rest your weary soles after whatever type of walk you choose.