Dover's Hill
A historic Cotswold amphitheatre with panoramic views, where 17th-century games meet timeless countryside scenery.
Perched on a Cotswold spur at 230 metres, Dover’s Hill is a National Trust natural amphitheatre with sweeping views over the Vale of Evesham and beyond. Once the site of Robert Dover’s 17th-century Cotswold Olimpicks – England’s original Olympic-style games – it remains a place of history, sport and open-air celebration. Today, it offers panoramic vistas, gentle walking paths, and a sense of timeless English countryside, all within easy reach of Chipping Campden.
A brief summary to National Trust - Dover's Hill
- Chipping Campden, Weston Subedge, GL55 6UW, GB
- +441451844257
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Budget
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Wear sturdy footwear, especially after rain, as paths can be muddy and uneven with sheep grazing on the slopes.
- Visit on a clear day to fully appreciate the long-distance views; the toposcope at the summit helps identify distant landmarks.
- Check the National Trust website for the annual Cotswold Olimpicks date if you’d like to experience the traditional games and festivities.
- Bring water and snacks, as there are no toilets or food facilities on the hill itself.
- Dogs must be kept on leads due to grazing livestock; this is a one-pawprint rated National Trust site.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Car
From Chipping Campden, follow the road northwest for about 1.6 km towards Weston-sub-Edge; turn off at the signed National Trust car park for Dover’s Hill. The small car park uses pay-by-app parking, with charges for non-members and free parking for National Trust members after app validation.
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Walking
From Chipping Campden town centre, a well-marked footpath leads about 1.6 km uphill to Dover’s Hill, following public rights of way through fields and along quiet lanes. Allow around 30–40 minutes on foot, with some moderate inclines and potentially muddy paths after rain.
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Public Transport
Take a local bus to Chipping Campden, then walk the 1.6 km to Dover’s Hill via footpaths. Bus services are infrequent, so check timetables in advance; the walk from town is straightforward but includes some uphill sections and field paths.
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Cycling
Cycle from Chipping Campden along quiet country lanes to the Dover’s Hill car park; the route includes some steep sections and narrow roads, so it’s best suited to confident riders. There are no dedicated cycle parking facilities, but bikes can be left near the car park entrance.
National Trust - Dover's Hill location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about National Trust - Dover's Hill
A Natural Amphitheatre in the Cotswolds
Rising 230 metres above sea level on a spur of the Cotswold scarp, Dover’s Hill forms a natural amphitheatre with wide, open grassy slopes that roll down to the Vale of Evesham. Managed by the National Trust, this protected landscape is part of the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, where limestone grassland meets ancient woodland. The hill’s shape and elevation create a dramatic vantage point, with the ground gently curving to frame views across rolling farmland, patchwork fields and distant hills. In spring and summer, the slopes are dotted with wildflowers, while in autumn the surrounding trees turn rich gold and russet, adding to the hill’s scenic charm.Home of the Cotswold Olimpicks
The hill’s most famous chapter began in 1612, when lawyer and local character Robert Dover established the Cotswold Olimpicks, a boisterous annual festival of sports and games inspired by the ancient Olympics. These lively contests – including wrestling, horse racing, jumping and dancing – drew crowds from across the region and helped cement Dover’s Hill as a place of communal celebration. Though the original games faded, the tradition was revived in the 20th century and continues today as the Cotswold Olimpicks, held on the hill each summer. The event brings music, sport and pageantry back to this historic amphitheatre, echoing centuries of revelry in the open air.Views, Toposcope and Ancient Traces
At the summit, a trig point and a toposcope guide visitors’ eyes across the landscape, pointing out landmarks as far away as the Black Mountains in Wales and the Long Mynd in Shropshire, some 97 km distant. On clear days, the panorama stretches for miles, encompassing the Malverns, the Severn Valley and the patchwork of the Cotswold countryside. Below the hill, the woods known as Lynches are thought to follow the lines of Roman vineyard terraces, with the name ‘lynchet’ referring to man-made agricultural terraces. These subtle earthworks hint at centuries of human activity, from Roman viticulture to medieval farming, layered beneath the modern walking paths and grazing fields.Walking, Wildlife and Seasonal Change
Dover’s Hill is a popular starting point for walks through the Cotswolds, with paths leading into Lynches Wood and along the Cotswold Way. The woodland floor is carpeted with bluebells in spring, while summer brings butterflies and birdsong. Sheep graze on the slopes, so paths can be muddy after rain and require sturdy footwear. The terrain is mostly open grassland with some steeper sections and steps, making it suitable for moderate walks rather than strenuous hikes. Throughout the year, the hill changes character: crisp and bright in winter, lush and green in spring, golden in summer and richly coloured in autumn, offering a different experience with each season.Visitor Experience and Practical Details
The hill is easily accessible from Chipping Campden, about a mile to the southeast, and has a small car park with pay-by-app parking (free for National Trust members). From the car park, a hard-surfaced path leads to the main viewpoint, making the top area accessible for many visitors, though lower slopes are grassy and can be uneven. There are no toilets or permanent facilities on the hill itself, so visitors should plan accordingly. Dogs are welcome but must be kept on leads due to grazing livestock. Whether you come for the views, a short walk, a bit of history or the annual Olimpicks, Dover’s Hill offers a peaceful yet historically rich slice of the Cotswolds, where sport, nature and landscape come together.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
West Banqueting House
1.8 km
Experience the grandeur of Jacobean England in West Banqueting House, a beautifully preserved historic retreat in the heart of Chipping Campden.
Old Campden House
1.9 km
Explore the evocative ruins and Jacobean heritage of Old Campden House, a grand 17th-century mansion touched by history and time.
Sudeley Castle Gardens
15.9 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and rich history of Sudeley Castle Gardens, a must-visit gem in the heart of the Cotswolds.
Sudeley Castle
16.0 km
Explore Sudeley Castle, a historical landmark in the Cotswolds, rich in royal history, stunning gardens, and family-friendly activities.
Stratford Fountains
16.0 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of the Stratford Fountains, a must-visit tourist attraction in Stratford-upon-Avon, perfect for relaxation and cultural exploration.
Holy Trinity Church
16.0 km
Explore Holy Trinity Church in Stratford-upon-Avon, a historic Anglican church and the final resting place of William Shakespeare, steeped in literary heritage.
Shakespeare's Funerary Monument
16.0 km
Discover the historical significance of Shakespeare's Funerary Monument in Stratford-upon-Avon, a tribute to the legendary playwright's remarkable legacy.
Hall's Croft
16.2 km
Explore Hall's Croft in Stratford-upon-Avon - a historical museum dedicated to Shakespeare's legacy with beautiful gardens and fascinating exhibitions.
The Stratford Chain Ferry
16.3 km
Experience the charm of Stratford-upon-Avon on the Stratford Chain Ferry, where scenic views and history come together on the River Avon.
Shakespeare's England
16.3 km
Discover the enchanting world of Shakespeare's England in Stratford-upon-Avon, where literary history meets picturesque landscapes and rich culture.
Almshouses
16.3 km
Explore the Almshouses of Stratford-upon-Avon, a historic site reflecting the town's rich heritage and commitment to community care.
Shakespeare's Schoolroom & Guildhall
16.4 km
Explore Shakespeare's Schoolroom & Guildhall: A historic site where the Bard's journey began, rich in culture and literary heritage.
The Guild Chapel
16.4 km
Medieval masterpiece with rare wall paintings hidden for centuries—a window into pre-Reformation England.
Shakespeare's New Place
16.4 km
Discover the rich history and stunning gardens at Shakespeare's New Place, a tribute to the life and works of the world's most famous playwright.
Stratford Upon Avon Bandstand
16.4 km
Historic bandstand in Stratford-upon-Avon offering free summer concerts and a vibrant community atmosphere in a scenic park setting.
Unmissable attractions to see
Chipping Campden
1.4 km
A timeless Cotswold market town blending medieval wool trade heritage, stunning limestone architecture, and scenic countryside trails.
Chipping Campden Tourist Information Centre
1.6 km
Your welcoming gateway to Chipping Campden’s rich heritage, local culture, and the scenic Cotswold Way National Trail.
Broadway Tower
4.1 km
Explore Broadway Tower, a historical landmark in the Cotswolds offering stunning views and rich heritage in a picturesque setting.
Broadway
4.2 km
Explore Broadway, the enchanting jewel of the Cotswolds, where history, stunning architecture, and natural beauty await every traveler.
Broadway Museum & Art Gallery
4.4 km
Discover Broadway’s rich history and vibrant artistic heritage in a charming 17th-century coaching inn museum nestled in the heart of the Cotswolds.
Kiftsgate Court Gardens
4.8 km
A legendary Cotswold garden where three generations of women gardeners cultivated rare plants and the world's largest rose.
National Trust - Hidcote
5.0 km
Explore the enchanting Arts and Crafts garden rooms and sculptures of Hidcote Manor, a National Trust gem in the Cotswolds.
Cotswold Lavender
6.4 km
Immerse yourself in the fragrant, scenic lavender fields of Cotswold Lavender, a seasonal farm experience in the heart of Snowshill’s countryside.
National Trust - Snowshill Manor and Garden
6.9 km
Discover the enchanting 16th-century manor and whimsical Arts and Crafts garden of Charles Wade’s eclectic collection in the heart of the Cotswolds.
Snowshill
7.2 km
Discover Snowshill, a charming Cotswold village where historic manor, vibrant gardens, and lavender fields create a serene and captivating escape.
Cotswold Falconry Centre
7.8 km
Discover the majesty of birds of prey through thrilling displays and close encounters at the Cotswold Falconry Centre in scenic Batsford.
Bourton House Garden
8.3 km
Explore the tranquil elegance of Bourton House Garden, a historic Cotswold gem with exquisite topiary, a White Garden, and stunning countryside views.
Shenberrow Hill
8.4 km
Discover Shenberrow Hill’s tranquil landscapes and charming village atmosphere on the scenic edge of the Cotswolds.
Sezincote House & Garden
9.3 km
Discover Sezincote, a breathtaking Mughal-style Indian palace and romantic garden nestled in the heart of the Cotswolds.
Stanway House
10.4 km
Discover the timeless charm of Stanway House, a Jacobean manor with Britain’s tallest gravity-fed fountain and enchanting historic gardens.
Essential places to dine
Fig Restaurant, Campden
1.5 km
A stylish modern European restaurant in Chipping Campden, serving seasonal dishes and elegant afternoon tea within the Cotswold House Hotel & Spa.
MO
2.3 km
Exclusive chef’s table dining with innovative seasonal cuisine in an intimate Cotswolds setting at Dormy House.
The Back Garden
2.3 km
Elegant garden-inspired dining at Dormy House, blending Cotswold produce with Mediterranean flair in a sunlit, serene setting.
The Shed
2.4 km
A relaxed Cotswold bar and restaurant with roaring fires, local food, and a convivial atmosphere, perfect for drinks, light meals, and easygoing evenings.
Russell’s of Broadway
4.6 km
Elegant boutique hotel and acclaimed restaurant blending historic charm with refined British cuisine in the heart of Broadway, Cotswolds.
The Ebrington Arms
4.8 km
A timeless Cotswold village pub offering rustic charm, gourmet dining, and cozy country accommodation in idyllic Ebrington.
Buckland Manor
6.6 km
Elegant historic manor hotel with fine dining and tranquil gardens in the heart of the Cotswolds’ charming Broadway village.
Horse and Groom
8.0 km
Quintessential Cotswolds pub with hearty British fare, cozy rooms, and stunning countryside views in Bourton-on-the-Hill.
the scenic supper
11.5 km
Experience farm-to-table dining in a stunning Cotswold glasshouse with seasonal menus and panoramic countryside views.
The Oak Room Restaurant
13.4 km
Elegant dining in a historic setting at Ettington Park, where refined British cuisine meets warm, attentive service.
The Halfway at Kineton
13.7 km
A charming 17th-century Cotswold pub blending rustic ambiance with refined seasonal British cuisine and warm hospitality.
The Old Stocks Inn
14.9 km
Charming 17th-century boutique inn with refined British dining, cozy bar, and elegant rooms in the heart of Stow-on-the-Wold’s historic market square.
The Old Butchers
15.1 km
A family-run gem in Stow-on-the-Wold offering exquisite European cuisine in a warm, historic setting with exceptional seafood and steaks.
5 North St
15.8 km
An intimate French dining experience in Winchcombe, blending innovative cuisine with cozy charm and unpretentious service.
salt
16.3 km
Experience modern British fine dining in Stratford’s charming timbered setting, where seasonal flavors and artistic dishes create an unforgettable tasting journey.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Mooch The Cotswolds - Handmade Homeware & Clothing
1.5 km
Discover handcrafted luxury sleepwear and homeware inspired by Cotswold heritage, crafted with passion and sustainable artistry.
Cotswold Luxe
1.5 km
Luxury home furnishings and artisanal décor curated for timeless interior inspiration.
The Attic
1.5 km
Sustainable luxury fashion in the heart of the Cotswolds—designer pieces with character and conscience.
Cotswold Food Hampers
1.6 km
Discover premium handcrafted gourmet hampers celebrating the rich flavors and traditions of the Cotswolds in historic Chipping Campden.
Whatever The Weather
4.5 km
Discover unique gifts and charming curiosities in a historic thatched cottage at the heart of Broadway’s picturesque High Street.
Cotswold Trading - Broadway
4.5 km
A stylish homewares and gift shop in the heart of Broadway, offering curated kitchenware, décor, and presents with a distinctly British flair.
Cotswolds Distillery Shop
4.5 km
Discover the heart of Cotswolds spirits craftsmanship at the Broadway shop, home to award-winning whiskies and gins.
The Man Cave Broadway
4.6 km
Eclectic collectibles and gifts in a historic Cotswolds village setting.
Wild at Heart
4.7 km
Discover unique contemporary jewellery and gifts from local artisans at Wild at Heart, Broadway’s family-run boutique with a personal touch.
Betty & Violet
4.7 km
Vintage treasures and handmade goods celebrating independent makers in the heart of the Cotswolds.
Cotswold Grey
9.8 km
Discover rustic elegance and expert interior design at Cotswold Grey, Moreton-in-Marsh’s premier home furniture and décor destination.
The Cotswold Snug
9.9 km
Discover authentic Cotswold crafts and gifts in a cozy, welcoming shop nestled in the heart of Moreton-in-Marsh’s historic High Street.
The Cotswold Company (Flagship Store)
14.9 km
Step into a beautifully styled Cotswold home at The Cotswold Company’s flagship store in Stow-on-the-Wold, where timeless furniture and homewares come to life.
Ella's Emporium
15.0 km
A charming Cotswold gift shop with handmade fudge, unique homewares, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Stow-on-the-Wold.
The Curated Store
15.0 km
Discover unique vintage fashion, artisan homewares, and timeless treasures in the heart of Stow-on-the-Wold’s charming market square.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Eight Bells Inn
1.7 km
Historic 14th-century inn with cozy rooms, classic pub fare, and a warm, dog-friendly atmosphere in the heart of Chipping Campden.
The Bakers Arms
2.8 km
A timeless Cotswold pub offering hearty fare and warm hospitality in the heart of Broad Campden’s historic village.
The Watering Hole - Event Bars
3.2 km
Discover The Watering Hole, where exceptional cocktails and event planning unite in the stunning Cotswolds, perfect for weddings and gatherings.
Snowshill Arms
7.1 km
Authentic Cotswold pub offering hearty fare, friendly service, and a welcoming atmosphere in the picturesque village of Snowshill.
The Howard Arms Ilmington
8.6 km
A charming 400-year-old Cotswold inn blending historic warmth, fine dining, and stylish comfort in the heart of Ilmington village.
The Coach & Horses
10.9 km
A cosy, traditional Cotswold pub in Longborough serving hearty fare, local ales, and welcoming guests with charming B&B rooms.
Sheep on Sheep Street
15.1 km
Historic charm meets modern comfort at The Sheep on Sheep Street, a vibrant inn and pub in the heart of Stow-on-the-Wold.
Hollow Bottom
15.4 km
A historic Cotswold pub blending hearty local fare, warm hospitality, and scenic countryside charm in the heart of Guiting Power.
The Lion Inn
15.8 km
Historic 15th-century coaching inn in Winchcombe offering cozy rooms, hearty British fare, and a warm, inviting atmosphere in the heart of the Cotswolds.
The Bull - El Toro | Stratford-Upon-Avon
16.0 km
A lively fusion of Spanish tapas and English pub charm in Stratford-upon-Avon, serving exceptional food and drink in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Windmill
16.3 km
A welcoming traditional British pub in Warwickshire serving classic dishes and local brews in a cozy, community-focused setting.
The Keys
16.5 km
A friendly and inviting pub in Stratford-upon-Avon with a quirky garden, great drinks, and classic pub fare in a relaxed atmosphere.
The Avon Lounge
16.5 km
A lively cocktail bar in Stratford-upon-Avon known for friendly hosts, great music, and a welcoming atmosphere perfect for evening socializing.
All Bar One Stratford Upon Avon
16.5 km
Stylish wine bar in Stratford offering diverse dining, full bar, and a relaxed, accessible atmosphere near Shakespeare’s birthplace.
Rose & Crown
16.5 km
Classic English pub charm with hearty fare, friendly service, and a spacious garden in the heart of Stratford-upon-Avon.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Stratford Upon Avon Bridge Club
15.9 km
Explore the vibrant community of The Stratford Upon Avon Bridge Club, where bridge enthusiasts gather for games, camaraderie, and local culture in a picturesque setting.
Fat Cat Comedy Club
16.5 km
Discover the joy of laughter at Fat Cat Comedy Club in Stratford-upon-Avon, where each show promises an unforgettable night of entertainment.
Stratford Play House
16.5 km
Discover the vibrant world of performing arts at Stratford Play House, where drama, comedy, and culinary delights come together in Stratford-upon-Avon.
Caz Bar Nightclub
16.7 km
Experience Stratford-upon-Avon's glamorous late-night vibe at Caz Bar, a vintage cellar nightclub with live DJs, dancers, and premium drinks until dawn.
2 PIGS
25.4 km
A lively Cheltenham nightclub with dual rooms spinning rock, punk, indie, and classic hits, known for affordable drinks and an alternative vibe.
Coco
25.5 km
Cheltenham’s underground hotspot for vibrant nightlife, top DJs, and creative cocktails in a lively basement setting.
The 21 Club
25.6 km
Experience Cheltenham’s vibrant nightlife at The 21 Club, where music, dancing, and great drinks create unforgettable nights.
Popworld - Cheltenham
25.7 km
Cheltenham’s lively late-night hotspot where cheesy pop tunes and creative cocktails fuel unforgettable party nights.
MooMoo Clubrooms Cheltenham
25.7 km
Experience Cheltenham’s vibrant nightlife with dynamic music, VIP vibes, and late-night energy at MooMoo Clubrooms.
Home and Botanic Nightclub
25.7 km
Historic charm meets vibrant nightlife at Cheltenham’s Home and Botanic, a multi-room club offering cocktails, live piano, DJs, and unforgettable nights.
Thirteen Degrees
25.7 km
Cheltenham’s late-night hotspot for dancing, cocktails, and private events in a central urban setting.
Under the Prom
25.8 km
Experience Cheltenham’s vibrant nightlife with premium drinks, three unique bars, and VIP service at Under The Prom nightclub.
The Cavern
29.9 km
A vibrant night club in Warwick offering energetic music, lively dancing, and a social atmosphere for unforgettable nights out.
Neon
31.5 km
Leamington Spa’s largest nightclub, Neon delivers vibrant music, themed nights, and a dynamic party atmosphere every Friday until dawn.
Altoria Nightclub
31.9 km
Experience Leamington Spa’s vibrant nightlife at Altoria Nightclub with diverse music floors, VIP service, and a unique rooftop terrace open till 3 am.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Cultural Heritage
- Unique
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Panoramas
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Instagrammable
- Aesthetic Corners
- Viral Moments
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Protected Area
- Nature Reserve
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Requires Hike
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly