Dover's Hill

Historic hilltop birthplace of the Cotswold Olimpick Games with sweeping Cotswold vistas.

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National Trust - Dover's Hill

A 230-metre hilltop in the Cotswolds offering breathtaking panoramic views across the Vale of Evesham, with vistas extending to the Black Mountains in Wales and the Long Mynd in Shropshire. Steeped in history as the birthplace of the Cotswold Olimpick Games—a 17th-century sporting tradition that predates the modern Olympics—Dover's Hill remains a cherished destination for walkers, photographers, and history enthusiasts. Managed by the National Trust, the site features a toposcope identifying distant landmarks and a 1934 monument honouring Robert Dover, the games' founder.

A brief summary to National Trust - Dover's Hill

Chipping Campden, Weston Subedge, GL55 6UW, GB
+441451844257
Visit website
Duration: 1.5 to 3.5 hours
Free
Outdoor
Mobile reception: 2 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

Park for free in Chipping Campden and walk up to Dover's Hill to avoid National Trust car park fees; the scenic approach adds to the experience and takes approximately 20–30 minutes.
Download offline maps and apps before arrival, as mobile signal is spotty on the hilltop; this is essential for navigation and safety.
Visit in spring to witness the bluebell woods at the base of the hill in full bloom, but stay on designated paths to protect the delicate flowers.
Time your visit for the annual Cotswold Olimpick Games held on the first Friday after the UK Spring Bank Holiday, featuring traditional sports including the famous shin-kicking contests and a procession through Chipping Campden.
Bring binoculars and a camera for the toposcope viewing experience; clear days reveal landmarks up to 60 kilometres away, including the Black Mountains in Wales.

Getting There

Walking from Chipping Campden

Park for free in Chipping Campden town centre and follow the scenic walking route uphill toward Dover's Hill. The walk takes approximately 20–30 minutes depending on fitness level and pace. The path is well-marked and passes through pleasant countryside, offering gradual elevation gain. This option avoids National Trust car park fees and provides an immersive approach to the site.
National Trust Car Park

Drive directly to the National Trust car park at the summit of Dover's Hill. Parking charges apply, typically around £3–5 for stays under two hours and £5–7 for longer visits. The car park provides direct access to the hilltop and is suitable for visitors with limited mobility or those preferring not to walk the approach. Opening hours align with daylight availability.
Cotswold Way Long-Distance Path

Dover's Hill lies on the Cotswold Way, a 102-kilometre walking trail connecting Chipping Campden to Bath. Walkers on this route naturally pass through Dover's Hill as a significant waypoint. The approach from Chipping Campden along the Cotswold Way takes approximately 45 minutes to one hour and offers comprehensive views of the surrounding landscape. This option suits experienced walkers undertaking multi-day treks.
Local Bus Service

Public buses serve Chipping Campden from surrounding towns including Moreton-in-Marsh and Cheltenham. Journey times vary from 20–45 minutes depending on origin. Once in Chipping Campden, visitors must either walk to Dover's Hill or arrange local taxi transport. Bus services operate with reduced frequency on weekends and bank holidays; check local timetables in advance.

National Trust - Dover's Hill location weather suitability

Any Weather
Clear Skies
Mild Temperatures

Discover more about National Trust - Dover's Hill

A Hilltop Steeped in Ancient and Medieval Heritage

Dover's Hill rises 230 metres above the surrounding Cotswold landscape, positioned just north-west of Chipping Campden in Gloucestershire. The hill's history extends far deeper than its modern fame suggests. Archaeological evidence points to Roman occupation of the valley below, where a square crop-mark with distinctive lynchets—terraced banks formed by centuries of ploughing—indicates the presence of a Roman villa with vineyard cultivation. The woods at the base of the hill, known locally as 'the Lynches,' preserve the physical memory of these ancient agricultural terraces. Roman coins, pottery fragments, broken brooches, rings, and beads have been discovered across the surrounding fields and gardens, testament to the Romano-British farmers who worked this fertile valley. A stone coffin, unearthed in the 1970s and now repurposed as a plant pot, further confirms the Roman presence on these hills.

The Legendary Olimpick Games and Robert Dover's Vision

Dover's Hill achieved enduring fame as the venue for the Cotswold Olimpick Games, established in the early 17th century by Robert Dover, a young attorney with a bold vision. Beginning in 1618, Dover orchestrated these games on Kingcomb Plain as a deliberate cultural statement—a response to the rising Puritan and Sabbatarian movements that sought to suppress traditional English sports and festivities. By choosing the name 'Olimpick,' Dover invoked classical authority to defend his vision against religious opposition. The games featured distinctive and often eccentric traditional sports including shin-kicking, tug-of-war, wrestling, and various rural contests. The spectacle was elaborate: a two-dimensional wooden castle flew the flag of St George, with cannons fired to announce each new event. Four tents of varying status provided shelter, and the atmosphere blended pageantry with genuine athletic competition. Over the following decades, as England drifted toward civil war, the games became more than mere entertainment—they represented a debate about national identity and the proper character of English culture. The games were held more than 220 times over approximately 240 years, making a significant cultural impact that extended far beyond the local community.

Preservation and Modern Significance

In 1926, Campden artist and etcher Frederick Landseer Griggs purchased Dover's Hill at auction, rescuing it from the threat of private development. His stewardship ensured the site's preservation during a critical period. Today, Dover's Hill is managed by the National Trust, guaranteeing its protection for future generations. A monument erected in 1934 commemorates Robert Dover and his remarkable legacy as the founder of the Cotswold Olimpick Games—a tradition that predates the modern Olympic Games by nearly three centuries and continues to inspire annual celebrations on the first Friday after the UK Spring Bank Holiday.

Panoramic Vistas and Landscape Features

From the summit, visitors encounter a trig point and a toposcope—an orientated viewing table that identifies landmarks visible across the vast landscape. On clear days, the panorama encompasses the Black Mountains in South Wales and the Long Mynd in Shropshire, nearly 60 kilometres distant. The surrounding Cotswold countryside unfolds in gentle waves of honey-coloured stone villages, rolling fields, and woodland. In spring, the bluebell woods at the hill's base transform into a carpet of vibrant blue, creating a natural spectacle that draws photographers and nature lovers. The landscape itself tells stories of human habitation spanning millennia—from Bronze Age occupation evidenced by ancient axe finds, through Iron Age hill forts at nearby Meon Hill, to the Romano-British farmsteads and medieval settlements that followed.

A Living Connection to English Tradition

Dover's Hill embodies the layered history of the English countryside. The annual Olimpick Games, revived in modern times, maintain the spirit of Robert Dover's original vision—a celebration of community, tradition, and the distinctive character of rural English culture. Visitors walking these slopes tread ground where Romans cultivated vineyards, where medieval farmers worked their strips of land, and where a 17th-century attorney made a stand for cultural continuity against religious extremism. The hill remains a place where history is not merely remembered but actively lived, where ancient traditions persist in the present day.

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.

Chipping Campden Tourist Information Centre

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.

Mooch The Cotswolds - Handmade Homeware & Clothing

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.

The Bull - El Toro | Stratford-Upon-Avon

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.

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Dover's Hill

A brief summary to National Trust - Dover's Hill

Local tips

For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you

Getting There

Walking from Chipping Campden

National Trust Car Park

Cotswold Way Long-Distance Path

Local Bus Service

National Trust - Dover's Hill location weather suitability

Unlock the Best of National Trust - Dover's Hill

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about National Trust - Dover's Hill

A Hilltop Steeped in Ancient and Medieval Heritage

The Legendary Olimpick Games and Robert Dover's Vision

Preservation and Modern Significance

Panoramic Vistas and Landscape Features

A Living Connection to English Tradition

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

West Banqueting House

Old Campden House

Sudeley Castle Gardens

Sudeley Castle

Stratford Fountains

Holy Trinity Church

Shakespeare's Funerary Monument

Hall's Croft

The Stratford Chain Ferry

Shakespeare's England

Almshouses

Shakespeare's Schoolroom & Guildhall

The Guild Chapel

Shakespeare's New Place

Stratford Upon Avon Bandstand

Unmissable attractions to see

Chipping Campden

Chipping Campden Tourist Information Centre

Broadway Tower

Broadway

Broadway Museum & Art Gallery

Kiftsgate Court Gardens

National Trust - Hidcote

Cotswold Lavender

National Trust - Snowshill Manor and Garden

Snowshill

Cotswold Falconry Centre

Bourton House Garden

Shenberrow Hill

Sezincote House & Garden

Stanway House

Essential places to dine

Fig Restaurant, Campden

MO

The Back Garden

The Shed

Russell’s of Broadway

The Ebrington Arms

Buckland Manor

Horse and Groom

the scenic supper

The Oak Room Restaurant

The Halfway at Kineton

The Old Stocks Inn

The Old Butchers

5 North St

salt

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Mooch The Cotswolds - Handmade Homeware & Clothing

Cotswold Luxe

The Attic

Cotswold Food Hampers

Whatever The Weather

Cotswold Trading - Broadway

Cotswolds Distillery Shop

The Man Cave Broadway

Wild at Heart

Betty & Violet

Cotswold Grey