Wotton Hill: Scenic Cotswold Escarpment and Wildlife Haven
Explore Wotton Hill’s scenic Cotswold escarpment with ancient woodlands, historic landmarks, and sweeping views to Wales on clear days.
Wotton Hill is a prominent hill on the edge of the Cotswold Hills near Wotton-under-Edge, Gloucestershire, England. Known for its panoramic views stretching to Wales on clear days, it forms part of the Cotswold Way long-distance footpath. The hill features ancient woodland, grassland, and disused quarries within a protected Site of Special Scientific Interest, offering a rich natural habitat and a tranquil outdoor experience.
A brief summary to Wotton Hill
- UK, Wotton-under-Edge, GB
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
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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 shoes as the terrain includes steep paths and uneven surfaces, especially near disused quarries.
- Visit on a clear day for panoramic views extending as far as Wales across the Severn Valley.
- Bring a camera to capture the diverse natural habitats and historic commemorative trees atop the hill.
- Combine your visit with a walk along the Cotswold Way, which crosses Wotton Hill and connects to nearby attractions.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Trash Bins
Getting There
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Bus
Local bus services connect Wotton-under-Edge with nearby towns such as Stroud and Dursley, with a typical journey time of 20–40 minutes. Services run several times daily but check schedules for weekend availability. A single fare costs approximately £3–£5.
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Train and Taxi
The nearest railway station is Cam & Dursley, about 7 miles (11 km) north of Wotton-under-Edge. From there, a taxi ride to Wotton Hill takes around 15–20 minutes, costing about £20–£30. Trains run frequently from Bristol and Gloucester.
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Car
Driving from the M5 motorway takes about 15 minutes via the B4058 road. Parking is available in Wotton-under-Edge town center, but spaces can be limited on weekends. Note that the hill itself is on private land with some access restrictions, so use designated paths.
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Walking
For hikers, Wotton Hill is accessible via the Cotswold Way footpath, which passes directly over the hill. The walk from Wotton-under-Edge town center to the summit is approximately 1.5 km (0.9 miles) with moderate incline, suitable for those with good footwear and moderate fitness.
Wotton Hill location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Wotton Hill
Geological and Ecological Significance of Wotton Hill
Wotton Hill rises on the Jurassic limestone escarpment of the Cotswolds, just half a mile north of the market town of Wotton-under-Edge. The hill is part of a 26.1-hectare biological and geological Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), designated for its unique limestone geology and diverse habitats. The escarpment includes disused quarries that reveal the area's geological history, while the surrounding landscape supports a mosaic of woodland, scrub, and grassland.Ancient Woodlands and Flora
Two significant ancient woodlands, Westridge Wood and Conygre Wood, dominate parts of Wotton Hill. These woods are primarily composed of beech trees, with widespread ash and pedunculate oak, alongside field maple and small-leaved lime. Historically managed as coppice, remnants of old stools remain, while the current high forest structure supports a rich understorey and ground flora including nettle-leaved bellflower, goldenrod, spurge laurel, and tutsan. This biodiversity reflects the hill’s importance as a wildlife habitat within the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.Historical and Cultural Layers
Overlooking Wotton-under-Edge, the hill holds historical significance beyond its natural features. The summit area is marked by trees planted in the 19th century to commemorate the Battle of Waterloo. The site also hosted one of the early warning beacons used during the Spanish Armada threat in 1588, linking the hill to England’s historic defense system. Nearby, the Cotswold Way footpath passes over the hill, connecting hikers to the rich cultural landscape of the region.Visitor Experience and Panoramic Views
Wotton Hill offers visitors a rewarding outdoor experience, especially for walkers on the Cotswold Way. The ascent requires sturdy footwear due to varied terrain, but the effort is rewarded with expansive views across the Severn Valley and, on clear days, as far as Wales. The natural tranquility and scenic vistas make it a favored spot for nature lovers and photographers seeking to capture the quintessential Cotswold landscape.Conservation and Management
The hill is owned by the National Trust, with parts managed by the Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust, particularly the Old London Road reserve. This small reserve protects rare limestone flora such as limestone woundwort, emphasizing the conservation priority of the site. The management balances public access with habitat protection, maintaining the hill’s ecological integrity within a heavily visited area.Integration with the Surrounding Area
Wotton Hill’s proximity to Wotton-under-Edge provides easy access to local amenities and accommodation, making it a practical day trip destination. The hill forms part of a network of walking routes, including the Monarch’s Way and Slow Ways, linking it to broader regional trails. Its position on the Cotswold Edge escarpment situates it within a landscape rich in heritage, natural beauty, and outdoor opportunities.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Somerset Monument
6.4 km
A towering Victorian tribute to Lord Robert Edward Somerset, commanding panoramic views over the historic Cotswold landscape.
Walk The Cotswolds
13.6 km
Explore the Cotswolds' breathtaking landscapes and charming villages with Walk The Cotswolds, your gateway to England's picturesque countryside adventures.
Haresfield Topograph
16.5 km
A three-dimensional map landmark on the Cotswold escarpment with panoramic views toward Wales.
Southmead Round Barrow
23.4 km
Explore the ancient Southmead Round Barrow, a Bronze Age burial mound nestled within Bristol’s tranquil Badock’s Wood.
Great Days Out UK
23.7 km
Discover the best of Gloucester at Great Days Out UK, your ultimate Tourist Information Centre for local attractions and travel tips.
The Garden at Miserden
24.0 km
Discover the serene beauty of The Garden at Miserden, a stunning oasis in the Cotswolds perfect for nature lovers and relaxation seekers.
Blaise Museum
24.2 km
Explore the enchanting Blaise Museum in Henbury, Bristol, where local history comes alive through fascinating artifacts and beautiful parkland.
Coleford Great Western Railway Museum
24.3 km
Explore the rich history of rail travel at Coleford's Great Western Railway Museum, a charming destination for history enthusiasts and families.
Tintern
24.4 km
Discover Tintern: A captivating Welsh village with stunning Abbey ruins, scenic trails, and a rich tapestry of history amidst the beauty of the Wye Valley.
Our Lady's Well
24.4 km
Unveil the serenity and historical significance of Our Lady's Well in Gloucester, a must-visit landmark for tourists seeking tranquility and local lore.
Blaise Castle Estate
24.7 km
Explore the enchanting Blaise Castle Estate in Bristol, a historical landmark surrounded by lush gardens and rich history, perfect for family outings and nature lovers.
Bristol Rocks
25.0 km
Discover the beauty and adventure of Bristol Rocks, the ultimate destination for rock climbing enthusiasts and nature lovers in the heart of Bristol.
Great Witcombe Roman Villa
25.2 km
Explore the exquisite mosaics and rich history of Great Witcombe Roman Villa, a key historical site in Gloucester's picturesque countryside.
Llanthony Secunda Priory
25.3 km
Explore the rich heritage of Llanthony Secunda Priory, a stunning medieval site surrounded by picturesque landscapes in Gloucester.
National Waterways Museum Gloucester
25.6 km
Explore the National Waterways Museum in Gloucester, where the rich history of Britain's canals comes to life through engaging exhibits and scenic boat trips.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Ancient Ram Inn (Advance Book only)
0.9 km
Step into England’s oldest haunted inn, where centuries of dark history and restless spirits create an unforgettable paranormal experience.
William Tyndale Monument
2.1 km
Explore the William Tyndale Monument, a historic tribute to the English Reformation, offering stunning views and a serene hiking experience.
National Trust - Newark Park
2.9 km
A Tudor hunting lodge turned Georgian country house, perched on the Cotswold edge with sweeping views, historic interiors, and 700 acres of parkland and gardens.
Ozleworth Park
4.3 km
Discover the serene beauty and historic charm of Ozleworth Park, a tranquil Cotswold escape with lush gardens and a unique circular graveyard.
Lower Woods Nature Reserve
5.7 km
Explore southwest England’s largest ancient woodland, a sanctuary of wildflowers, butterflies, and tranquil river meadows year-round.
Cam Peak
5.7 km
Discover Cam Peak’s breathtaking views, wildflower meadows, and ancient hillfort on a scenic Cotswold Way walk near Dursley.
Uley Long Barrow (Hetty Pegler's Tump)
7.4 km
Explore a 5,000-year-old Neolithic burial mound with ancient chambers and stunning Severn Valley views at Uley Long Barrow, Gloucestershire.
Berkeley Castle
8.5 km
Explore Berkeley Castle, a Norman fortress lived in by the same family for over 850 years, steeped in royal history and medieval charm.
Coaley Peak
8.6 km
Coaley Peak offers sweeping Cotswold views, ancient Neolithic heritage, and vibrant wildflower meadows on a tranquil hilltop reserve.
Nympsfield Long Barrow
8.7 km
Explore the ancient Neolithic burial chambers of Nympsfield Long Barrow, set amid stunning Gloucestershire countryside and steeped in mysterious legends.
Dr Jenner's House
8.7 km
Step into the home of Edward Jenner, the pioneer of vaccination, and explore the historic site where smallpox was defeated.
National Trust - Horton Court
8.8 km
Step back in time at Horton Court, a beautifully restored Tudor manor nestled in the scenic Cotswolds countryside with rich history and cinematic charm.
Woodchester Mansion Trust
9.5 km
A hauntingly beautiful, unfinished Victorian Gothic mansion hidden in a tranquil Cotswold valley, offering a rare glimpse into architectural ambition and a haven for rare bats.
National Trust - Woodchester Park
9.6 km
Secluded Cotswolds valley with lakes, wildlife, historic boathouse, family trails, and scenic café views in a National Trust haven.
Westonbirt, The National Arboretum
10.2 km
Explore 600 acres of global tree species, seasonal wonders, and tranquil paths at Westonbirt, the UK's premier National Arboretum.
Essential places to dine
Wilder
11.3 km
Discover an intimate fine dining adventure in Nailsworth with inventive tasting menus and expertly paired wines at Wilder.
The Long Table
14.3 km
A pay-as-you-can community restaurant in Stroud serving locally sourced meals that nourish both body and spirit.
Grey's Brasserie
15.9 km
Sophisticated yet relaxed dining at Whatley Manor, featuring globally inspired small plates and traditional Sunday roasts in a stunning Cotswolds setting.
Bybrook
18.7 km
Michelin-starred modern British fine dining in a historic Cotswold manor with fresh, seasonal produce from its own kitchen garden.
Fagin's
20.3 km
A charming family-friendly English pub in Brookthorpe serving hearty steaks, classic carveries, and warm hospitality in a relaxed setting.
Miller & Carter Gloucester
21.4 km
Experience expertly cooked steaks and warm hospitality at Miller & Carter Gloucester in the heart of Quedgeley’s Olympus Park.
Panevino Italian Restaurant
21.6 km
Authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality await you at Panevino, Chepstow’s beloved Italian restaurant on Bridge Street.
The Bell at Sapperton
21.8 km
Historic Cotswold inn blending seasonal British fare, a renowned wine wall, and cozy accommodations in the heart of picturesque Sapperton village.
The Anchor Inn
22.9 km
Historic gastropub beside Tintern Abbey offering award-winning food, cozy atmosphere, and scenic views in the heart of South Wales.
The Wild Hare
23.1 km
Historic countryside inn in Tintern offering cozy rooms, farm-to-table dining, and easy access to Wye Valley’s natural and cultural treasures.
Eat Unique
23.7 km
A peaceful village restaurant in Churcham, Gloucester, offering distinctive dishes in a cozy, rural setting.
The Lock Up
24.2 km
A relaxed neighbourhood restaurant in East Bristol serving seasonal modern British food with warmth and style.
Bianchis
25.1 km
Neighbourhood Italian trattoria serving refined Northern Italian cuisine and handmade pasta in Montpelier, Bristol.
littlefrench
25.3 km
A cosy, authentic French bistro in Bristol’s Westbury Park, serving hearty classics and refined dishes with warm, friendly service.
Caper and Cure
25.4 km
Savor expertly crafted British cuisine in a historic Stokes Croft setting, where heritage meets vibrant, flavourful dining.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Little Gift Shop
11.5 km
Curated gifts and local treasures in the heart of Nailsworth's independent retail scene.
Domestic Science
13.6 km
Discover curated vintage treasures and contemporary homewares in a charming Georgian townhouse at the heart of Tetbury.
Highgrove Shop - Tetbury
13.7 km
Exclusive royal estate boutique offering sustainable crafts, fine china, and artisan gifts inspired by King Charles III’s Highgrove Gardens.
Duffle Vintage
15.1 km
Authentic 60s and 70s vintage fashion in intimate, inspiring room settings.
Butterfly Ball
15.2 km
Discover mindful gifts and spiritual treasures in Stroud’s welcoming Butterfly Ball shop, a hub for creativity and community since 2011.
Moonflower Too
15.2 km
A vibrant gift shop in Stroud’s historic High Street, blending unique homewares with local charm and ethical brands.
Adana Collective Antiques
15.6 km
Discover timeless treasures and beautiful antiques at Adana Collective, a curated gem in Stroud’s vibrant Salmon Springs Trading Estate.
Handmade Cotswolds
17.0 km
Discover exquisite handmade crafts and unique artisan gifts in the heart of Stroud’s vibrant Cotswolds community.
Wye Emporium
20.6 km
Explore Wye Emporium, a charming homewares shop in Sedbury, Chepstow, offering unique treasures and local craftsmanship for your home.
All Good Things Outlet Bristol
20.8 km
Discover affordable luxury and timeless fashion at All Good Things Outlet Bristol, where premium clothing gets a stylish second chance.
Luxury Smell
21.0 km
Bristol's premier niche fragrance boutique offering expert consultations and exclusive luxury scents.
Koxy Lifestyle
21.6 km
Discover unique lifestyle and craft gifts in a charming boutique nestled in historic Chepstow’s riverside setting.
Country Clutter Ltd
21.7 km
Discover unique handcrafted gifts and local treasures at Country Clutter Ltd, a charming family-run shop in the heart of historic Chepstow.
Esse's Dream Gift Shop
22.0 km
A charming independent gift shop in Bristol, full of carefully chosen cards, homewares, and local treasures for every occasion.
BAM Store + Space
24.0 km
Discover unique gifts and local artistry at BAM Store + Space, Easton’s vibrant hub for creativity and community.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Weighbridge Inn
12.3 km
Historic 17th-century Cotswolds pub famed for its unique 2in1 pies, local ales, and warm, rustic charm.
Cotswold Mobile Bar Hire
17.0 km
Bringing bespoke, fully stocked mobile bars with rustic charm and quirky inflatable pubs to your Cotswold events.
The Full Glass Bar
18.6 km
Historic charm meets modern luxury at The Full Glass Bar, a refined cocktail and wine haven in Castle Combe’s iconic Manor House.
The Smoking Dog
19.3 km
A welcoming traditional pub in Malmesbury serving hearty classics and fine ales in a cozy, dog-friendly setting.
The Bumble Bee
20.1 km
A charming gastropub in Gloucester blending traditional warmth with quality seasonal dining and real ales in a relaxed setting.
Barn Owl
20.9 km
A friendly, family- and dog-welcoming pub in Quedgeley offering classic British fare, cask ales, and a warm, spacious setting with outdoor gardens.
The Horse & Groom, Charlton
21.9 km
A historic 16th-century Wiltshire pub and inn blending cosy charm, seasonal British cuisine, and luxury rooms in a tranquil countryside setting.
Queen's Head Micropub
22.0 km
A cozy micropub in Chepstow serving exceptional local ales and traditional ciders in a friendly, community-driven atmosphere.
Melt Bars - Mobile Event & Cocktail Bars
22.2 km
Bespoke handcrafted mobile bars and expert cocktail service tailored for events across the UK from Chippenham’s premier specialists.
The Rose & Crown, Tintern
23.3 km
A welcoming gastropub in Tintern offering hearty English fare, local ales, and live music in a charming riverside setting.
Piercefield
23.5 km
A cozy, dog-friendly pub near Chepstow Racecourse offering classic British fare, a lively beer garden, and warm local hospitality.
The Somerford Arms
23.5 km
A family-run village pub in Little Somerford offering exceptional food, warm hospitality, and a charming countryside atmosphere.
Three Oaks Inn
24.1 km
A welcoming gastropub in Gloucester’s Robinswood, blending traditional charm with modern comfort and community spirit.
Avenue
24.2 km
A lively, dog-friendly pub in Gloucester serving classic fare and drinks in a welcoming Victorian setting with a vibrant community spirit.
The Wellesley Arms
24.3 km
Historic coaching inn turned gastropub offering hearty British fare and cozy village charm in Sutton Benger near Chippenham.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Capones
4.5 km
Historic nightclub in Dursley with legendary ties to Al Capone, offering vibrant weekend nightlife and pulsating music.
Trio Nightclub
15.0 km
Experience Stroud’s vibrant nightlife at Trio Nightclub, where music, dancing, and energetic vibes light up weekend nights.
The Lion - Bar & Nightclub
21.9 km
A vibrant bar and nightclub blending historic charm with lively nightlife in the heart of Chepstow.
Lakota
25.6 km
Bristol's gritty heartbeat: underground raves, thunderous bass, and nights that blur into dawn at this St Paul's legend.
Dare to Club
25.6 km
Experience Bristol’s vibrant, inclusive nightlife at Dare to Club, where diverse music and welcoming vibes create unforgettable nights.
ATIK Gloucester
25.9 km
Gloucester’s largest nightclub, ATIK pulses with vibrant music, student nights, and an energetic party atmosphere until the early hours.
Jax Nightclub Gloucester
25.9 km
Energetic nightclub in Gloucester offering diverse music, two dance floors, and a welcoming atmosphere for late-night fun.
Bar Fever Gloucester
26.0 km
Experience Gloucester’s vibrant nightlife at Bar Fever, a trendy nightclub with dynamic music, stylish interiors, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Motion
26.1 km
Bristol’s iconic warehouse nightclub, Motion, pulses with underground beats and community spirit, celebrating decades of electronic music culture.
E11evn's Nightclub
26.2 km
A lively late-night hotspot in Chippenham offering weekend clubbing with a spirited local vibe and energetic dance floors.
The Loco Klub
26.4 km
An atmospheric subterranean arts venue in Brunel’s Temple Meads arches, where tunnels, brick vaults and intimate soundscapes host club nights, theatre and live music.
Popworld - Bristol
26.6 km
Dance to 90s and 00s pop anthems under neon lights at Bristol's ultimate nostalgic nightclub, where cheesy hits and POPTAIL cocktails fuel epic nights out.
Forró Bristol
26.6 km
Ignite your night with Brazilian forró rhythms: partner dances, live bands, and sweaty joy in Bristol's beating heart.
Marquee Cocktail Bar & Nightclub
26.7 km
From refined cocktails to dawn-dancing beats, Marquee delivers Bristol's ultimate nightlife evolution in one stylish venue.
Silk Nightclub
26.7 km
Experience Bristol’s vibrant nightlife at Silk Nightclub, where energetic beats and a lively crowd create unforgettable nights in the city center.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Nature Reserve
- National Park
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Myth & Legends
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Requires Hike
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Pet Friendly