A Picturesque Walk Through the English Countryside
On this delightful Cotswolds walking tour, discover dreamy English countryside - rolling hills, hedgerow-lined fields, and postcard-pretty hamlets. Follow paths from village to village, taking detours to visit iconic sites. Explore the birthplace of Shakespeare with a trip to Stratford-upon-Avon, take in England's grand history at Sudeley Castle, and explore the beautiful town of Cirencester with its strong Roman influence. See story-book thatched cottages and Neolithic tombs, wander beside gently meandering rivers, and enjoy a scenic steam train ride. Enjoy the wonders of the Cotswolds Way!
On this delightful Cotswolds walking tour, discover dreamy English countryside - rolling hills, hedgerow-lined fields, and postcard-pretty hamlets. Follow paths from village to village, taking detours to visit iconic sites. Explore the birthplace of Shakespeare with a trip to Stratford-upon-Avon, take in England's grand history at Sudeley Castle, and explore the beautiful town of Cirencester with its strong Roman influence. See story-book thatched cottages and Neolithic tombs, wander beside gently meandering rivers, and enjoy a scenic steam train ride. Enjoy the wonders of the Cotswolds Way!
Meeting in Oxford (which is easily reached by train from London), a 45 minute transfer takes us to the tiny village of Swinbrook. Starting from the cricket green, a short leg-stretching walk takes us to Asthall, where we enjoy a traditional Cotswolds pub lunch in a local inn. Afterwards, we walk alongside the Windrush River to the tiny St Oswald's Church, which dates back to the 11th century. We continue alongside the river all the way into Burford, ending directly at our hotel and base for the next 2 nights.
Accommodation: The Lamb Inn-Burford, England
Activity: 3 hours/6 miles hiking on rolling & flat terrain
Transportation: 1-hour private minibus transfer
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Hike the Monarch's Way North
Day 2
Today, embark on the first hiking adventure in the Cotswolds. Hike from one enchanting village to another on good trails, through pastoral green countryside. Highlights include the hamlets of Bourton-on-the-Water (known as the 'Venice of the Cotswolds'), and Lower Slaughter (much nicer than its name suggests) before finishing at the equally lovely Stow-on-the-Wold. A short 15 minute transfer leads back to the hotel in Burford.
Accommodation: The Lamb Inn-Burford, England
Activity: 3-4 hours/6 miles hiking on rolling & flat terrain
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hike the Cotswold Way
Day 3
Today starts with a short transfer to the historic market town of Chipping Campden, the official start of the Cotswold Way trail. Set off southward toward the village of Broadway, then up Dover's Hill to take in great views across the region. After checking in to the hotel in Broadway, take an afternoon trip to the medieval market town of Stratford-upon-Avon (30 minutes away), renowned as the 16th-century birthplace of William Shakespeare.
Accommodation: The Broadway-Broadway, England
Activity: 3-4 hours/6 miles hiking on rolling terrain with 650' elevation gain
Transportation: 1.5-hour private minibus transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Head South Along the Cotswold Way
Day 4
Today continue on the Cotswold Way, hiking directly from the hotel southwards out of Broadway on rolling terrain. Climb up to the site of an Iron Age hill fort before descending again to cross fields and some woodland at the bottom of the escarpment. From here, pass through various pretty villages including a ruined abbey and ancient churches before we finish at the ruins of Hailes Abbey, founded in 1246 by the Earl of Cornwall. A short transfer leads back to the hotel in Broadway, where you spend another night.
Accommodation: The Broadway-Broadway, England
Activity: 4-5 hours/8 miles hiking with 1150' elevation gain
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
The Highest Point of the Cotswold Way
Day 5
After a short transfer back to Hailes Abbey, rejoin the Cotswold Way and hike south to Sudeley Castle, which boasts strong royal connections through its 1,000 year history. After exploring the castle, continue on to Cleeve Hill which, at 1,040-feet, is the highest point in the Cotswolds. From the summit, follow a broad ridge which gradually descends to the end point, Gotherington Railway Station. From here, jump on a steam train back to Broadway and our final night in the village.
Accommodation: The Broadway-Broadway, England
Activity: 4-5 hours/10 miles hiking with 1,100' elevation gain
Transportation: 1-hour private minibus transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Chedworth Roman Villa To Bibury
Day 6
Transfer 45-minutes south to the ruins of Chedworth, one of the grandest Roman villas of its time. After exploring the beautiful ruins, enjoy a relaxed hike, following the banks of the River Coln all the way to the next hotel, in the charming village of Bibury, passing through woodland and through small villages on the way. Our hotel is located just yards from Arlington Row, often said to be the prettiest street in England. This row of weavers cottages were created in the 17th century but the original buildings date back to around 1380. Stroll around the village before gathering for dinner.
Accommodation: The Swan Hotel-Bibury, England
Activity: 3-4 hours/7.5 miles hiking with 325' elevation gain
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
River Coln Hike & Cirencester
Day 7
A brief transfer takes us to Pitham Copse and our trailhead. Enjoy a relaxed hike along the banks of the scenic River Coln, passing through the villages of Quenington and Coln St Aldwyns, before arriving back in Bibury. Freshen up and enjoy a pub lunch before we transfer into nearby Cirencester. Known as the capital of the Cotswolds, this historic town has strong Roman influence and we'll spend the afternoon exploring it. Afterwards, transfer back to Bibury for a final night dinner.
Accommodation: The Swan Hotel-Bibury, England
Activity: 2-3 hours/4.5 miles hiking with 165' elevation gain
Transportation: 1.5-hour private minibus transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Return to Oxford
Day 8
After breakfast, transfer back to Oxford where the trip concludes.
Transportation: 45-minute private minibus transfer
Dreaming of an adventure designed exclusively for you? With insider access and decades of experience, our travel experts create custom tailored adventures that are perfect for families, couples, and large groups. MT Sobek's custom adventures are designed to our exacting standards and led by our award-winning adventure guides.
When to start planning? Earlier is always better when designing a custom trip. More time allows for better availability of preferred accommodations, guides and your desired activities. Ideally, start the conversation with us at least 6 months before you want to travel. If you are looking for a custom trip that departs within three months, chances are greatly diminished in securing requested accommodations and the best guides.
*Custom trips require a 25% non-refundable deposit once an itinerary is agreed upon.
The best people to immerse you in a destination are the ones who live there, which is why we feature local Adventure Guides on our trips. Here are a few that you might meet on this adventure.
Jeremy M.
Jeremy is a top MT Sobek guide, who loves exploring wild places the world over! As well as guiding in his home country of New Zealand for over 15 years, Jeremy leads intrepid adventures in England, Scotland, and Ireland. He has a special passion for summer walks in England, leading England Coast to Coast Hiking and Village to Village Hiking in the Cotswolds. When he's not guiding for MT Sobek, Jeremy enjoys examining maps, planning adventures, and working with school groups near his home in Herefordshire, England.
Dan M.
Dan lives in the English Lake District where he regularly climbs the local crags and fells, paddles the rivers and cycles the trails. He has lived in the Highlands of Scotland, which is his spiritual home and the land of his ancestors. He has travelled extensively on every continent except the Poles, one day perhaps!. When not guiding for MT Sobek he will be plotting his next ski trip to Norway or climbing trip to the Alps.
Jamie P.
Jamie is a MT Sobek guide who has taken his passion for the outdoors all over the world! Guiding across open seas and high peaks he leads kayaking, climbing, and hiking in a range of environments. Growing up with the Peak district on his doorstep has shaped a special connection to the countryside especially within Northern England. When he’s not guiding for MT Sobek he’s on his own adventures and could be anywhere.
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[ActivityHighlight] => This is a moderate trip, with good walking - about 2-5 hours per day. The elevation gain is not serious (maximum 1,500\'), with most days less than 1000\'. The terrain is a mixture of well-worn walking paths, fields, meadows and roads. The paths and fields can be damp, so water-proof walking shoes or boots are recommended.
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Activity Level
This trip is rated activity level 2. This is a moderate trip, with good walking - about 2-5 hours per day. The elevation gain is not serious (maximum 1,500'), with most days less than 1000'. The terrain is a mixture of well-worn walking paths, fields, meadows and roads. The paths and fields can be damp, so water-proof walking shoes or boots are recommended. Learn more about activity levels here.
Activity Snapshot
Day 1
3 hours/6 miles hiking on rolling & flat terrain
Day 2
3-4 hours/6 miles hiking on rolling & flat terrain
Day 3
3-4 hours/6 miles hiking on rolling terrain with 650' elevation gain
Day 4
4-5 hours/8 miles hiking with 1150' elevation gain
Day 5
4-5 hours/10 miles hiking with 1,100' elevation gain
Day 6
3-4 hours/7.5 miles hiking with 325' elevation gain
Day 7
2-3 hours/4.5 miles hiking with 165' elevation gain
Accommodations
Quintessential English inns and charming hotels in ancient buildings, featuring period details, modern amenities, and a welcoming ambience.
The Lamb Inn is a quintessential English inn with modern day comforts, located on a quiet street in the historic market town of Burford. The 17 en-suite bedrooms have individual decor, featuring a collection of stylish fabrics and antique furnishings, and welcome extras like Nespresso machines. Guests love the quirky style and warmth of this charming traditional hotel.
Tucked away in the Worcestershire village of Broadway, the Broadway Hotel is housed inside timbered buildings dating from the 15th century. Its rooms are spacious and comfortable, and come with an en-suite bathroom, tea and coffee making facilities, and Wi-Fi. The ambience is warm and welcoming, and it is a perfect place to unwind after rambling across the surrounding hills.
Located on the enchanting banks of the Coln River in the idyllic village of Bibury, this former coaching inn is the ultimate haven for a peaceful escape. The 22 spacious, country-style rooms feature antique furnishings and contemporary fabrics and wallpapers. It's a delightful place to end a walk in the Cotswolds.
Weather
Mornings are cool and misty, while afternoons are clear and warm. Rain is common, but you can expect sunshine, too. Summer months can be quite warm.
Jun
Jul
Sep
Oxford
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
Oxford
68
51
73
55
66
51
Stratford-upon-Avon
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
Stratford-upon-Avon
68
49
72
53
66
49
Know Before You Book
Accommodations This itinerary stays in small country villages, sleeping in centuries-old inns. Most of our guests find the experience of sleeping in historic English inns to be a charming and authentic part of this trip. However, be advised that guestrooms and en-suite bathrooms are quite small.
FAQs
Who will meet me on arrival?
You will need to travel to the trip's starting point on your own. We will meet you in Oxford at 10am on Day 1 to gather before boarding our vehicle to start the trip.
Can I wear hiking shoes or cross-trainers, or do I need hiking boots?
You can wear hiking shoes, but cross-trainers will probably get wet. The best footwear for this trip are water-proof walking shoes or lightweight hiking boots.
Can I skip a day of hiking on this trip?
Yes. If we are staying in the same hotel, you may simply relax at the hotel and explore the nearby villages. When we are changing hotels, you would ride with our guide in the minibus.
Will I have access to the support vehicle throughout the day?
Although we do have a support vehicle throughout the day, it is not always quickly accessible to the walkers.
What happens if it starts to rain?
We highly recommend that guests pack their rain gear in their day packs each day. There will be several opportunities to access the vehicle during each day.
Where do we eat lunch on this trip?
On this trip, lunches are either a great picnic lunch on the trail, prepared by your guides, or in a cozy pub along the way. All lunches are included on this trip.
What is the minimum age for this trip?
The standard minimum age for this trip is 18, but check out our private trip options for families and groups with younger guests.
"Great experience every time with some of the most knowledgeable guides in their fields. We always come home with wonderful memories of the people we meet and things we see."
Bob J. MT Sobek Guest
"We have traveled throughout the world, but never experienced a level of service and attention to detail as we did with MT Sobek."
