Upper Slaughter: A Timeless Cotswold Village Steeped in History and Charm
Discover Upper Slaughter, a serene Cotswold village where history, nature, and timeless English charm converge along the tranquil River Eye.
Upper Slaughter is a picturesque Cotswold village near Cheltenham, known for its tranquil setting along the River Eye, historic manor house, and rich heritage dating back to the Domesday Book. With its well-preserved stone cottages, medieval church, and peaceful rural atmosphere, it offers visitors a glimpse into England’s past amid stunning natural beauty.
A brief summary to Upper Slaughter
- Cheltenham, Upper Slaughter, GB
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit St Peter’s Church to explore its medieval architecture and historic interior details.
- Take a leisurely walk along the River Eye to enjoy the picturesque ford and peaceful countryside views.
- Explore the Castle Mound to see the remains of the Norman motte-and-bailey castle and learn about the village’s medieval past.
- Admire the stone cottages restored by Edwin Lutyens, showcasing early 20th-century architectural preservation.
- Plan your visit during spring or summer to experience the village’s lush greenery and tranquil rural ambiance at its best.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
Getting There
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Bus
Take the Stagecoach bus service from Cheltenham town center to Bourton-on-the-Water, with a journey time of approximately 45-55 minutes. From Bourton-on-the-Water, a local taxi or a 15-minute walk along country lanes will bring you to Upper Slaughter. Bus services run regularly but check schedules for weekend and holiday variations. A single fare costs around £5-£7.
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Car
Driving from Cheltenham to Upper Slaughter takes about 25-30 minutes via the A40 and local country roads. Parking is limited in the village, so plan to park considerately in designated areas or nearby village car parks. Some narrow lanes may require cautious driving. No parking fees typically apply.
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Taxi
Local taxi services from Cheltenham to Upper Slaughter take approximately 25 minutes. This option is convenient for direct access but costs around £30-£40 one way. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during weekends or evenings.
Upper Slaughter location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
Discover more about Upper Slaughter
Ancient Roots and Feudal Legacy
Upper Slaughter’s history stretches back to at least the 11th century, with its mention in the Domesday Book of 1086 where it was recorded under the ownership of Robert de Lacy. The village’s name derives from the Old English word “slough,” meaning wet or muddy land, reflecting its location by the River Eye. The manor was later owned by the Slaughter family from the 12th century, who left a lasting mark on the village’s development. Evidence of a Norman motte-and-bailey castle, built without royal approval during the civil war of the Anarchy in the 12th century, survives today as the Castle Mound on the village’s northern edge, underscoring its medieval significance.Architectural Heritage and Village Character
Upper Slaughter is renowned for its beautifully preserved stone cottages and historic buildings that embody quintessential Cotswold charm. The village’s centerpiece is Upper Slaughter Manor, a Tudor-era manor house constructed from rubble stone with a traditional Cotswold stone roof. Though it fell into disrepair in the 18th century, it was restored in the 19th century and remains a private residence today. Nearby, St Peter’s Church, dating back to the 12th century, offers visitors a chance to admire its medieval architecture and interior features such as a 14th-century Easter Sepulchre niche and brass plaques commemorating the Slaughter family.A Village of Peace and Resilience
Upper Slaughter is one of England’s rare ‘doubly thankful’ villages, having lost no residents in either World War I or World War II. Remarkably, during a Luftwaffe bombing raid in 1944, the village suffered damage but no casualties. This resilience adds a poignant layer to the village’s tranquil atmosphere. The River Eye gently winds through the village, with a charming ford and footbridge providing idyllic views and peaceful spots for reflection and photography.Natural Beauty and Rural Tranquility
Surrounded by rolling Cotswold countryside, Upper Slaughter offers a serene escape with scenic walking trails and opportunities to enjoy the pastoral landscape. The village’s location amidst lush greenery and water features creates a calming environment, perfect for visitors seeking relaxation and a connection to nature. The quiet lanes and traditional stone walls enhance the timeless feel, making it a favored destination for those exploring the Cotswolds’ rural heritage.Community and Cultural Legacy
The village’s social fabric was historically shaped by the Slaughter family and later landowners like the Whitmores, who influenced local agriculture and trades. The village retains a sense of community through its historic buildings and preserved spaces, including cottages restored by noted architect Edwin Lutyens in the early 20th century. Upper Slaughter’s rich history is also documented in writings by Reverend Francis Edward Witts, who served as rector for nearly half a century and chronicled village life in the 19th century.Visitor Experience and Timeless Appeal
Today, Upper Slaughter invites visitors to step back in time and experience the quintessential English village atmosphere. Its combination of historical landmarks, peaceful natural surroundings, and well-maintained heritage buildings offers a unique glimpse into rural life across centuries. Whether admiring the manor house, exploring the church, or simply strolling along the river, visitors find a harmonious blend of history, culture, and nature in this enchanting Cotswold gem.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
National Trust - Chedworth Roman Villa
14.1 km
Explore the remarkable Chedworth Roman Villa, a historic site showcasing the grandeur of Roman architecture and lifestyle in stunning Cotswold scenery.
Whittington Court
14.4 km
Explore the enchanting Whittington Court, a historical landmark in Cheltenham, offering stunning architecture and serene gardens perfect for a leisurely visit.
Bliss Tweed Mill
15.2 km
A striking Victorian tweed mill in Chipping Norton, blending industrial heritage with elegant architecture and scenic Cotswold views.
Chipping Campden
15.9 km
Discover the enchanting beauty of Chipping Campden, a historic market town in the Cotswolds, with stunning architecture and scenic landscapes.
Cleeve Hill
15.9 km
Explore Cleeve Hill, the highest peak in the Cotswolds, offering breathtaking views, enchanting trails, and a rich tapestry of wildlife.
The Rollright Stones
16.0 km
Explore the ancient mysteries of the Rollright Stones, a captivating historical site in the heart of the Cotswolds, rich in folklore and stunning scenery.
West Banqueting House
16.1 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
16.2 km
Explore the evocative ruins and Jacobean heritage of Old Campden House, a grand 17th-century mansion touched by history and time.
National Trust - Dover's Hill
16.6 km
Discover the breathtaking views and diverse wildlife at Dover's Hill, a hidden gem in the heart of the Cotswolds, perfect for hiking and exploration.
Bridge and footpath to Arlington Row
17.0 km
Uncover the beauty of Bibury's hiking trails leading to Arlington Row, where historic charm meets breathtaking scenery in the Cotswolds.
National Trust - Bibury
17.0 km
Discover the timeless beauty of Bibury, a picturesque village in the Cotswolds known for its enchanting cottages, serene landscapes, and rich history.
Arlington Row
17.0 km
Explore the enchanting Arlington Row in Bibury, a historic gem showcasing Cotswold architecture and serene river views for an unforgettable experience.
Cotswold Wildlife Park & Gardens
17.1 km
Discover Cotswold Wildlife Park & Gardens, a beautiful sanctuary for wildlife enthusiasts, families, and nature lovers in the heart of the Cotswolds.
Cotswold Journeys
17.4 km
Explore the enchanting Cotswolds on expertly crafted walking tours with seamless logistics and charming local stays.
World Walks (inc. Cotswold Journeys, British & Irish Walks)
17.5 km
Explore the captivating beauty of the Cotswolds with World Walks, your gateway to unforgettable guided walking tours across Britain and Ireland.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Old Mill
1.0 km
Historic 19th-century watermill on the River Eye offering museum exhibits, local crafts, and riverside café in charming Lower Slaughter.
Lower Slaughter Museum
1.0 km
Historic Old Mill museum in a tranquil Cotswold village, showcasing rural milling heritage beside the scenic River Eye.
Lower Slaughter
1.1 km
Discover Lower Slaughter, a serene Cotswold village where historic charm meets riverside tranquility and timeless English beauty.
Bourton-on-the-Water
2.4 km
Experience the charm of Bourton-on-the-Water, the 'Venice of the Cotswolds,' with its scenic river, historic bridges, and family-friendly attractions.
Cotswold Motoring Museum & Toy Collection
2.7 km
Step back in time with vintage vehicles, nostalgic toys, and the beloved Brum in the heart of picturesque Bourton-on-the-Water.
Cotswold Antiques & Tea Room
2.8 km
Discover timeless antiques and enjoy traditional tea in the heart of Bourton-on-the-Water’s charming Cotswold village.
Greystones Farm Nature Reserve
2.8 km
Explore ancient history and vibrant wildlife in the tranquil meadows and rivers of Greystones Farm Nature Reserve.
Once Upon A Candy Shop
2.9 km
A charming boutique sweet shop in Bourton-on-the-Water offering nostalgic treats with a premium twist amidst the scenic Cotswold village.
The Model Village
3.0 km
Step into a charming miniature world with the Grade II listed Model Village, a detailed 1:9 scale replica capturing Bourton-on-the-Water’s timeless Cotswold charm.
Birdland Park & Gardens
3.2 km
Meet England's only King Penguin breeding group and 500+ birds across nine acres of Cotswolds woodland.
The Dragonfly Maze
3.2 km
Discover the charming Dragonfly Maze in Bourton-on-the-Water—a playful hedge maze with clever puzzles and a golden prize at its heart.
Lady’s Well
3.4 km
Discover the tranquil Lady’s Well in Lower Swell, a historic holy spring famed for its healing waters and timeless spiritual traditions.
St Edward's Church
4.4 km
Discover the medieval charm and legendary Tolkien Door of St Edward's Church, a historic gem in the heart of Stow-on-the-Wold.
Cotswolds AONB
4.4 km
Explore the Cotswolds AONB: rolling hills, honey-hued villages, and timeless English countryside charm across nearly 800 square miles.
Market Square
4.4 km
Historic Market Square at the heart of Stow-on-the-Wold, where centuries of trade, architecture, and English rural charm converge.
Essential places to dine
The Rose Tree Restaurant
2.8 km
Charming riverside British dining in a historic Cotswold cottage with cozy interiors and scenic garden views.
The Croft Restaurant
2.9 km
A charming riverside restaurant in Bourton-on-the-Water serving fresh, locally sourced English cuisine in a welcoming and scenic setting.
The Old Stocks Inn
4.5 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
4.5 km
Historic charm meets exceptional seafood and charcoal-grilled cuisine in the heart of Stow-on-the-Wold’s vibrant dining scene.
The Halfway at Kineton
6.8 km
A charming 17th-century Cotswold pub blending rustic ambiance with refined seasonal British cuisine and warm hospitality.
Horse and Groom
9.6 km
Quintessential Cotswolds pub with hearty British fare, cozy rooms, and stunning countryside views in Bourton-on-the-Hill.
The Wild Rabbit
10.3 km
Charming Georgian inn in Kingham offering refined British cuisine, eco-conscious hospitality, and stylish countryside retreats in the heart of the Cotswolds.
The Kingham Plough
10.5 km
A charming Cotswold village inn blending traditional character with modern British cuisine and stylish comfort in the heart of Kingham.
The Old Smokery
11.6 km
A lively Cotswolds hub blending rustic dining, vibrant events, and welcoming atmosphere at Far Peak Camping.
The Chequers, Cotswolds
12.7 km
A stylish Cotswold gastropub in Churchill, serving elevated pub classics in a warm, lively atmosphere with a lovely garden and a strong local following.
5 North St
14.0 km
An intimate French dining experience in Winchcombe, blending innovative cuisine with cozy charm and unpretentious service.
Buckland Manor
14.8 km
Elegant historic manor hotel with fine dining and tranquil gardens in the heart of the Cotswolds’ charming Broadway village.
The Shed
15.3 km
A relaxed Cotswold bar and restaurant with roaring fires, local food, and a convivial atmosphere, perfect for drinks, light meals, and easygoing evenings.
The Back Garden
15.3 km
Elegant garden-inspired dining at Dormy House, blending Cotswold produce with Mediterranean flair in a sunlit, serene setting.
MO
15.4 km
Exclusive chef’s table dining with innovative seasonal cuisine in an intimate Cotswolds setting at Dormy House.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Cotswold Picture Shop
2.2 km
Discover authentic Cotswold art and unique gifts in a charming Bourton-on-the-Water boutique open daily until midnight.
Cotswold China & Cookware
2.7 km
Discover exquisite British chinaware and cookware in a charming boutique nestled in the heart of Bourton-on-the-Water.
The Cotswold Shop
2.7 km
Charming boutique offering handcrafted gifts and traditional sweets in one of Bourton-on-the-Water’s oldest buildings.
Chestnuts Fashion Fix
2.8 km
Discover unique vintage-inspired fashion and accessories in the heart of Bourton-on-the-Water’s charming High Street.
The Lodestone
2.8 km
Discover dazzling crystals and minerals with expert guidance in the heart of charming Bourton-on-the-Water.
Cotswold Perfumery
2.8 km
Experience bespoke English fragrances, immersive perfume courses, and luxury riverside stays in the historic heart of Bourton-on-the-Water.
Quirky
2.8 km
Discover unique gifts and local artisan treasures in the heart of Bourton-on-the-Water’s charming High Street.
Caboodle
2.9 km
Handcrafted treasures and local artisan finds in the heart of picturesque Bourton-on-the-Water.
The Cotswold Company (Flagship Store)
4.3 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.
The Curated Store
4.4 km
Discover unique vintage fashion, artisan homewares, and timeless treasures in the heart of Stow-on-the-Wold’s charming market square.
Ella's Emporium
4.4 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 Cotswold Stores
9.6 km
A welcoming convenience store in historic Northleach’s Market Place, offering local treats and everyday essentials daily from 8 AM to 8 PM.
The Cotswold Snug
10.6 km
Discover authentic Cotswold crafts and gifts in a cozy, welcoming shop nestled in the heart of Moreton-in-Marsh’s historic High Street.
Cotswold Grey
10.6 km
Discover rustic elegance and expert interior design at Cotswold Grey, Moreton-in-Marsh’s premier home furniture and décor destination.
Cotswold Hipster
10.7 km
Handcrafted artisan leather bags and stylish dog accessories blending vintage charm with modern functionality in Chipping Norton.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Kingsbridge
2.9 km
A classic riverside pub in Bourton-on-the-Water offering hearty British fare, cask ales, and warm hospitality in a scenic Cotswold village setting.
Sheep on Sheep Street
4.4 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
6.6 km
A historic Cotswold pub blending hearty local fare, warm hospitality, and scenic countryside charm in the heart of Guiting Power.
The Coach & Horses
6.9 km
A cosy, traditional Cotswold pub in Longborough serving hearty fare, local ales, and welcoming guests with charming B&B rooms.
The Fox at Oddington
8.2 km
Historic 16th-century Cotswold pub blending rustic charm with organic cuisine and cozy countryside stays in Lower Oddington.
Snowshill Arms
12.1 km
Authentic Cotswold pub offering hearty fare, friendly service, and a welcoming atmosphere in the picturesque village of Snowshill.
The Lamb Inn
13.4 km
Historic 17th-century coaching inn in Oxfordshire’s Cotswolds, blending rustic charm, hearty British cuisine, and cozy guest rooms.
The Lion Inn
14.0 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 Cotswold Arms
14.5 km
Historic 15th-century pub in Burford blending local ales, homemade food, live music, and a cozy beer garden for all ages.
The Bakers Arms
14.7 km
A timeless Cotswold pub offering hearty fare and warm hospitality in the heart of Broad Campden’s historic village.
Broadway
15.3 km
A welcoming Bournemouth pub serving classic fare, live sports, and a vibrant community atmosphere with inclusive dining options.
Eight Bells Inn
16.1 km
Historic 14th-century inn with cozy rooms, classic pub fare, and a warm, dog-friendly atmosphere in the heart of Chipping Campden.
THE STUMP
16.3 km
A historic Cotswolds coaching inn blending rustic charm, acclaimed wood-fired pizzas, and cozy rooms for a quintessential English countryside experience.
The Royal Oak, Prestbury
18.8 km
Historic 16th-century pub in Prestbury offering traditional Cotswold charm, seasonal British fare, award-winning ales, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The Keepers Arms
19.0 km
Charming Cotswold pub and boutique inn offering warm hospitality, excellent food, and a peaceful village retreat near Cirencester.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Unique
- Romantic
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
- Sacred Sites
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Myth & Legends
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
- Pet Friendly