England | Cotswold Way Mini-Trek
A peaceful escape with tranquil woodlands, meadows, & idyllic countryside vistas
Trip Highlights:
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Discover a showcase of charming villages, stunning views, and rolling hills along a scenic path
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Experience a blend of natural beauty and rich history, including historic sites and ancient monuments
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Encounter local culture, with opportunities to enjoy traditional pubs, farm-to-table meals, and charming hospitality
The Cotswold Way is a walk through England’s storybook countryside, where rolling hills, ancient pathways, and centuries of history combine to create an unforgettable journey. Designated a National Trail in 2007, the 102-mile route stretches along the Cotswold Edge, an escarpment overlooking the Severn Valley, offering hikers a mix of farmland, woodlands, and sweeping views.
Much like other classic long-distance trails in the UK, the Cotswold Way is a network of rights-of-way rather than a single defined track. The route meanders through idyllic villages, past Neolithic burial chambers, Iron Age hill forts, and remnants of Roman roads, providing a constant connection to the past. With a high point of just 900 feet at Cleeve Common, the trail features gentle ascents and manageable climbs, making it an enjoyable walk rather than a strenuous trek.
Ryder-Walker’s mini trek follows a four-stage itinerary, beginning in Chipping Campden, a quintessential Cotswold village of golden-stone houses, and finishing in Painswick, often called the “Queen of the Cotswolds.” Along the way, the route passes through charming market towns and quiet hamlets where life moves at a slower pace.
Accommodations reflect the region’s warm character, ranging from centuries-old inns to elegant boutique hotels with modern comforts. Dining is equally delightful—pubs serve up hearty classics like fish and chips or steak and ale pie, while unexpected gems like excellent Indian restaurants can be found in larger villages. The trail conveniently passes through villages around lunchtime, ensuring there’s always a cozy pub or café nearby when it’s time for a well-earned break.
With its rolling landscapes, historic landmarks, and postcard-perfect villages, the Cotswold Way is more than just a hike—it’s an immersion into the timeless charm of England’s countryside.
Trip Itinerary
Choose from our standard itinerary or customize the trek by adding or subtracting days.
Independently transfer to train station in Moreton-in-Marsh. Ryder-Walker will provide a taxi transfer from the train station to your four- star hotel in Chipping Campden. You will dine out tonight.
Exit Chipping Campden through rolling farmland and soon follow Mile Drive to Broadway Tower, one of the famous follies of the region. Lunch in Broadway, one of the Cotswolds’ most classic towns. Continue on to Stanton, perhaps the simplest and most charming Cotswold village. Transfer back to your hotel in Chipping Campden for the night. You will dine out again tonight.
Distance: 10.5 miles.
Transfer back to Stanton to begin your hike with a lovely ramble through the hamlet of Stanway, and continue on to Haile’s Abbey, built by the brother of Edward III. Enjoy lunch in Winchecombe before continuing on to the Cotswold Way high point on Cleeve Common. This hike can be shortened with a taxi transfer if desired. Spend the first of two nights in a very well-appointed B&B in Cleeve Hill. You will dine out both nights.
Distance: 8 – 13.5 miles.
Spend today high above Cheltenham, one of England’s prettier spa cities, known for its steeplechase grounds. Stop for lunch before climbing through atmospheric Lineover Wood and Ravensgare Hill. Finish at the Seven Springs Pub. Transfer back to Cleeve Hill.
Distance: 9 miles.
This is a unique stage of the Cotswold Way in that it is almost entirely in woodlands. Begin in the Witcombe Wood and visit the fascinating Witcombe Roman Villa. Pass the Double Gloucester Cheese Round Rolling Competition site at Cooper’s Hill before traversing to Painswick (the “Queen” of the Cotswolds). Overnight in a fine bed & breakfast. You will dine out tonight.
Distance: 7 miles (longer hike available).
Ryder-Walker will provide a taxi transfer to Stroud train station.
