The Cotswolds: England’s Idyllic Rolling Hills and Timeless Villages
Explore the rolling hills, golden stone villages, and timeless charm of England’s largest Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
The Cotswolds is a vast and enchanting region in South West England, spanning nearly 800 square miles across six counties. Renowned for its rolling limestone hills, picturesque honey-colored stone villages, historic market towns, and extensive network of walking trails, it is England’s largest Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Visitors can explore charming villages like Bourton-on-the-Water and Stow-on-the-Wold, enjoy scenic hikes on the Cotswold Way, and experience quintessential English rural life amid tranquil valleys and ancient woodlands.
A brief summary to Cotswolds
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 8 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-7 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-7 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-7 pm
- Thursday 10 am-7 pm
- Friday 10 am-7 pm
- Saturday 10 am-7 pm
- Sunday 10 am-7 pm
Local tips
- Rent a car for the most flexible way to explore the widespread villages and countryside, as public transport is limited.
- Wear sturdy walking shoes and waterproof clothing to enjoy the extensive footpaths and the unpredictable Cotswold weather.
- Visit popular villages like Bourton-on-the-Water early in the day to avoid crowds and experience their peaceful charm.
- Take a section of the Cotswold Way trail for a day hike to enjoy stunning views without committing to the full 102-mile route.
- Sample local cheeses, meats, and ales at village pubs and farmers’ markets to experience the region’s rich culinary heritage.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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By Car
Driving is the most convenient way to explore the Cotswolds’ widespread villages and countryside. From London, the journey typically takes around 2 to 2.5 hours via the M40 and A40. Parking is available in most towns but can be limited during peak seasons. Car hire prices range from £30 to £70 per day.
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By Train and Bus
Trains from London Paddington to Moreton-in-Marsh take about 1.5 to 2 hours, with onward bus services connecting to key villages like Stow-on-the-Wold and Bourton-on-the-Water. Train fares vary from £20 to £50 one-way depending on booking time. Bus services are less frequent and may require planning.
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By Coach Tour
Full-day coach tours from London offer visits to multiple Cotswold villages and attractions in 8 to 10 hours. These tours provide guided commentary and include stops for meals. Prices typically range from £60 to £100 per person.
Cotswolds location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Cotswolds
A Landscape Shaped by Jurassic Limestone and Ancient Traditions
The Cotswolds region stretches approximately 25 miles across and 90 miles long, covering parts of Gloucestershire, Oxfordshire, Warwickshire, Wiltshire, Worcestershire, and Somerset. Its defining feature is the golden Jurassic limestone, known as Cotswold stone, which gives the villages and towns their warm, honey-colored appearance. The rolling hills, or 'wolds,' create a gently undulating landscape of tranquil valleys, ancient woodlands, and wildflower meadows. Dry stone walls crisscross the countryside, marking historic boundaries and adding to the timeless rural charm.Quintessential Villages and Market Towns Rich in Heritage
The Cotswolds is dotted with picture-perfect villages and bustling market towns, each with its own character and history. Highlights include Bourton-on-the-Water, often called the 'Venice of the Cotswolds' for its serene river and stone bridges; Stow-on-the-Wold, a historic market town famed for its antique shops and the legendary church door linked to Tolkien’s lore; Bibury, with its iconic Arlington Row cottages; and Castle Combe, a fairytale village frequently featured in films. These settlements showcase traditional Cotswold stone architecture and offer cozy pubs, artisan shops, and local markets.The Cotswold Way and Outdoor Adventures
A major draw for visitors is the Cotswold Way, a 102-mile National Trail running from Chipping Campden to Bath. This scenic long-distance footpath winds along the escarpment, offering panoramic views over the Severn Valley and the Vale of Evesham. The region boasts over 3,000 miles of footpaths and bridleways, ideal for walking, cycling, and horse riding. The varied terrain ranges from gentle valley strolls to more challenging hill climbs, making the Cotswolds a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking both adventure and tranquility.Historic Estates, Gardens, and Cultural Treasures
Beyond its natural beauty, the Cotswolds is home to numerous stately homes, castles, and gardens. Notable sites include Blenheim Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and birthplace of Winston Churchill, and Chastleton House, a Jacobean manor with rich family history. The area also features acclaimed arboretums and country gardens that highlight the region’s horticultural heritage. Cultural heritage is further celebrated through local museums, craft centers, and festivals that preserve and showcase traditional arts and rural life.Gastronomy and Local Produce in a Rural Setting
The Cotswolds’ fertile landscape supports a thriving food culture, with local cheeses, meats, and beverages featured prominently in gastro pubs, inns, and fine dining establishments. Visitors can savor traditional English fare made with regional ingredients, often served in historic settings that enhance the dining experience. Farmers’ markets and food festivals provide opportunities to sample and purchase fresh local produce, reflecting the area’s commitment to sustainable and artisanal food traditions.Accessibility and Visitor Experience
While the Cotswolds spans a large area, it is best explored by car due to limited public transport coverage. Key towns such as Moreton-in-Marsh and Cheltenham offer rail connections, with onward bus services to smaller villages. The region’s welcoming atmosphere, combined with its scenic landscapes and rich heritage, makes it ideal for day trips, weekend getaways, and extended stays. Visitors are encouraged to prepare for variable weather and enjoy the peaceful countryside ambiance that defines the Cotswolds experience.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Manx Nostalgia
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Explore Manx Nostalgia for a unique blend of local fashion and vintage charm, perfect for tourists seeking a distinctive shopping experience.
Wanderungen - Schottland
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Discover Scotland's stunning landscapes with expert-guided hiking tours from Wanderungen - Schottland, your adventure awaits!
City of Stirling
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Explore the historic City of Stirling, where stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage create an unforgettable travel experience.
Ankh Tomb
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Discover the unique blend of fashion and heritage at Ankh Tomb, a clothing shop that captures the essence of local culture and style.
Cotswold Walks & Hikes and Bikes
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Discover the serene beauty of the Cotswolds through unforgettable walks, hikes, and biking adventures in this stunning English landscape.
Old Midlothian Memory Lane
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Uncover the rich historical narratives of Midlothian at Old Midlothian Memory Lane, where history comes alive through engaging exhibits and stories.
England's North
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Explore the best of England's North at the Tourist Information Centre—your essential hub for travel tips, maps, and local attractions.
Visit West
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Experience the best of nature and culture at Visit West, a must-visit destination for tourists seeking adventure and local charm.
Visit Gloucestershire
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Experience the stunning landscapes and rich history of Gloucestershire, your gateway to the Cotswolds and beyond.
Dundee Culture
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Dundee Culture: Celebrating and amplifying the vibrant creative spirit of Dundee through dynamic media and storytelling.
Entenlochklamm
10.2 km
Discover the breathtaking Entenlochklamm, a natural gorge on the Bavarian-Tyrolean border with hiking, history, and stunning views.
Griesbachklamm
17.6 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Griesbachklamm, a natural gorge in the Austrian Alps with scenic trails, waterfalls, and lush landscapes.
Teufelsklamm in St. Ulrich am Pillersee
20.9 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Teufelsklamm in St. Ulrich am Pillersee, a stunning hiking area perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Ursulablick
23.0 km
Experience breathtaking views and serene hikes at Ursulablick, a scenic spot in Kirchdorf in Tirol, surrounded by the stunning Austrian Alps.
Stripsenjochhaus
23.3 km
Discover the Stripsenjochhaus, a charming mountain cabin in the Tyrolean Alps, offering stunning views, local cuisine, and excellent hiking trails.
Unmissable attractions to see
City Break UK by Cluecation: The App where Guide meets Game!
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Explore the unique blend of adventure and culture with interactive city tours by City Break UK by Cluecation.
Kilmartin Glen Spirits
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Explore Kilmartin Glen Spirits: Where Artisanal Gin Meets Scenic Beauty in an Unforgettable Distillery Experience.
Tasting History Scotland
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Experience Ayrshire’s rich heritage through immersive storytelling, historic sites, and authentic Scottish tastes with Tasting History Scotland.
Abandoned Pictures
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Discover the haunting beauty of forgotten spaces with Abandoned Pictures, a film company turning abandonment into art.
Cotswolds
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Explore the rolling hills, golden stone villages, and timeless charm of England’s largest Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Visit Dundee
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Explore 400 million years of art, history, and nature in Dundee’s stunning Gothic Revival museum with free admission and vibrant galleries.
St Catherine's Island & Fort
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Explore St Catherine's Island & Fort, a dramatic Victorian coastal fortress blending rich military history with stunning Pembrokeshire sea views.
All of the Beautiful Things
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Discover timeless elegance and stories from the past at All of the Beautiful Things, a serene antique shop with a curated collection of vintage treasures.
Ardingly Antiques Fair
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Explore one of southern England’s largest antiques fairs with thousands of vintage treasures and collectibles under one roof.
Circus Extreme
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Experience the ultimate adrenaline-fueled circus with death-defying stunts, world-class performers, and electrifying live rock music.
Flutter.Buys - Artist - Thrive in the Art of Surviving
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Discover vibrant acrylic art and sculptures in a serene Alpine studio blending tradition, innovation, and sustainability.
Klobenstein Felsen
10.1 km
Discover the breathtaking views and serene beauty of Klobenstein Felsen in Kössen, Austria, a premier destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Kunst in Kössen
11.6 km
Explore the vibrant art scene at Kunst in Kössen, a unique tourist attraction showcasing local talents and cultural heritage in a stunning setting.
Rudersburg
12.1 km
Explore Rudersburg, an enchanting tourist attraction in Kossen, Austria, renowned for its stunning landscapes and vibrant cultural heritage.
King Ludwig II Museum
15.7 km
Explore the life and eccentric world of Bavaria's 'Mad King' Ludwig II within the opulent setting of Herrenchiemsee Palace.
Essential places to dine
Zahmer Kaiser Restaurant
20.7 km
Discover Zahmer Kaiser Restaurant in Walchsee: Authentic Austrian cuisine amidst breathtaking mountain views.
Restaurant Crystal
25.3 km
Experience the best of Austrian cuisine with a modern twist at Restaurant Crystal in Sankt Johann in Tirol.
Graspoint Niederalm
25.3 km
Discover authentic Austrian cuisine at Graspoint Niederalm while soaking in breathtaking alpine views in Sonnseite.
Wochenbrunner Alm
26.2 km
Experience authentic Austrian cuisine at Wochenbrunner Alm in Ellmau amidst stunning alpine scenery.
Berggasthaus Grander Schupf
26.2 km
Discover culinary excellence at Berggasthaus Grander Schupf with stunning alpine views and authentic Tyrolean cuisine.
Koasastadl
26.7 km
Discover Koasastadl: A Culinary Haven Offering Authentic Tyrolean Dishes Amidst Breathtaking Alpine Scenery.
Reischerwirt
27.0 km
Discover authentic Austrian flavors at Reischerwirt in Going am Wilden Kaiser - where tradition meets breathtaking alpine beauty.
Restaurant Esskultur
27.1 km
Discover culinary artistry at Restaurant Esskultur in St. Jakob in Haus - a fine dining experience blending local flavors with elegance.
Steinberg Alm
27.6 km
Experience authentic Austrian cuisine amidst breathtaking alpine scenery at Steinberg Alm in Scheffau am Wilden Kaiser.
Restaurant Gasthof Stanglwirt
27.7 km
Discover authentic Austrian cuisine amidst breathtaking alpine scenery at Gasthof Stanglwirt in Going am Wilden Kaiser.
Kaiseralm, bewirtschaftet
28.1 km
Experience exquisite Austrian cuisine at Kaiseralm in Scheffau am Wilden Kaiser, where breathtaking mountain views meet culinary excellence.
Restaurant Alexandra Going am Wilden Kaiser
28.6 km
Experience authentic European cuisine in the heart of Going am Wilden Kaiser at Restaurant Alexandra – where every dish tells a story.
Restaurant Kaiserbad
28.7 km
Experience authentic Austrian cuisine amidst breathtaking alpine views at Restaurant Kaiserbad in Ellmau.
Restaurant und Boutique Pension Jägerwirt
28.9 km
Experience authentic Tyrolean cuisine and cozy accommodations at Restaurant und Boutique Pension Jägerwirt in Scheffau am Wilden Kaiser.
Hollenauer-Kreuz Jausenstation
29.0 km
Experience authentic Austrian cuisine with breathtaking views at Hollenauer-Kreuz Jausenstation in Going am Wilden Kaiser.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Seasons of the Glens
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Discover the charm of local craftsmanship at Seasons of the Glens – a unique store celebrating the beauty of the region through artisanal products.
Coastal Cushions
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Explore Coastal Cushions for unique home goods that embody the charm of coastal living, perfect for adding a seaside touch to your home decor.
Curios Variety Shop
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Explore Curios Variety Shop, your go-to destination for unique gifts and quirky treasures that make your visit unforgettable.
UK Shopping Guide
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Discover the vibrant retail landscape of the UK with our comprehensive shopping guide, perfect for savvy tourists seeking unique finds.
One Bay
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Explore One Bay, a unique kitchen supply shop offering exquisite home essentials and local craftsmanship for every culinary enthusiast.
Enchanted Planet
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Discover ethically crafted gifts and sustainable living essentials at Enchanted Planet, a family-run shop dedicated to a greener future.
Aspire Art Glass
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Discover exquisite handmade glass gifts crafted with passion by a dedicated mother-daughter team in the UK’s Aspire Art Glass online boutique.
The Cute Stuff UK
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Discover charming kawaii treasures and playful collectibles at The Cute Stuff UK, Bavaria’s cozy shop for all things cute and delightful.
The Barn | Cotswold Home Decor Shop
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Discover unique home decor treasures blending rustic charm and modern style in the heart of the Cotswolds at The Barn.
A Touch of Quirk
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Discover quirky, handcrafted gifts and local artisan creations at A Touch of Quirk, a boutique shop full of unique treasures and creative charm.
Pure Favours
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Elegant bespoke party favours and personalized gifts crafted to make your special celebrations unforgettable.
Bespoke Vintage UK
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Discover timeless vintage treasures and unique antique gifts with Bespoke Vintage UK’s curated collection and eco-friendly ethos.
The Cotswold Baby Box
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Luxury curated baby boxes and bespoke gifts from the heart of the Cotswolds, handpicked with care.
Bafoo Shop
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Bafoo Shop offers expert pet supplies and services in a serene Alpine setting, blending quality care with natural beauty.
Unique clothing
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Discover distinctive apparel from global brands in Bavaria’s Unique Clothing boutique, where style meets quality and curated fashion awaits.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Brunton Arms
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Experience the rich craftsmanship of local brews at The Brunton Arms, where tradition meets taste in a charming setting.
Town & Country Bars
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Experience a refreshing twist on nightlife with oxygen-infused cocktails in a calm, health-focused setting at Town & Country Bars.
Dagnbar - Crazy Horse
17.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Walchsee at Dagnbar - Crazy Horse, where local charm meets lively entertainment in a cozy bar setting.
Feierabend by Liane
24.8 km
Discover the perfect blend of relaxation and local flavor at Feierabend by Liane, Sankt Johann's charming bar and café.
Post Bar
24.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Post Bar in St. Johann in Tirol, where innovative cocktails meet a lively atmosphere.
Cubo Skylounge
25.2 km
Experience gourmet dining with breathtaking mountain views at Cubo Skylounge, the perfect spot in Sankt Johann in Tirol.
Bayernstüberl
26.1 km
Discover the charm of Bayernstüberl in Traunreut, where Bavarian hospitality meets fun-filled evenings of darts and local brews.
Getränke-Brunnen
28.2 km
Experience the enchanting atmosphere of Getränke-Brunnen, a serene bar in Scheffau am Wilden Kaiser, perfect for unwinding after alpine adventures.
The Black Sheep
28.3 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious offerings at The Black Sheep, a must-visit gastropub in Oberndorf in Tirol.
Luna Bar
28.9 km
Discover the warm ambiance of Luna Bar in Ebbs, a perfect retreat for drinks and local culture amidst stunning surroundings.
d'schupf
29.3 km
Discover the delightful flavors of Tyrol at d'schupf, where grilled delicacies meet warm hospitality in the heart of Ellmau.
Irish Pub Paddy´s Shebeen
29.7 km
Discover the charm of Ireland at Paddy's Shebeen, a cozy pub in Ellmau offering traditional Irish cuisine and a vibrant atmosphere.
Sternbar
30.3 km
Experience the charm of Sternbar, a cozy bar in Scheffau am Wilden Kaiser, blending local culture with stunning alpine views.
Fabels Ellmau
30.3 km
Experience the flavors of Tyrol at Fabels Ellmau, a charming restaurant and bar offering a delightful selection of local and international cuisine.
TOPBar Ellmau
30.3 km
Discover the charm of TOPBar Ellmau, where alpine beauty meets refreshing drinks in a cozy atmosphere.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- 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
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
