The Cotswold Way is a 102-mile (164 km) national trail that takes you through quintessential English countryside and rich historical sites, from Roman ruins to medieval marvels.<\/p>\n
You\u2019ll discover and marvel at the beauty of England\u2019s past as you walk through rolling hills, idyllic villages, and fascinating historical landmarks\u00a0before eventually reaching the city of Bath.<\/p>\n
It\u2019s an iconic route that\u2019s on many walker\u2019s bucket list!\u00a0<\/p>\n
Highlights of Walking The Cotswold Way National Trail<\/h2>\nThe Cotswold Way runs north to south, starting in the beautiful market town of Chipping Campden before finishing in the Roman city of Bath.<\/p>\n
\n![\"cotswold](\"https:\/\/monkeysandmountains.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Cotswold-Way.jpg\"\/)
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n- Passing through picturesque villages like Painswick, Stanton, and Broadway.<\/li>\n
- Walking through some of the most beautiful English countryside,\u00a0 including the Cotswold AONB (Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty).<\/li>\n
- Visiting historical and ancient sites, including ancient hill forts, Roman ruins, and medieval churches, including:\n
\n- Sudeley Castle:<\/strong> Located in Winchcombe and dating back over 1,000 years. It was also home to Queen Katherine Parr, the last wife of King Henry VIII.<\/li>\n
- Hailes Abbey: <\/strong>A ruined Cistercian monastery near Winchcombe that dates back to the 13th century.<\/li>\n
- Broadway Tower:<\/strong> An iconic folly located on top of Broadway Hill, which offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside and the second highest point in the Cotswolds.<\/li>\n
- Roman Baths:<\/strong> In Bath, well-preserved remains of the ancient Roman baths<\/li>\n
- Chipping Campden: A historic market town that is known for its beautiful architecture and picturesque streets, including the famous High Street.<\/li>\n
- Belas Knap:<\/strong> An ancient Neolithic long barrow that is one of the most well-preserved examples in the region.<\/li>\n
- Painswick Rococo Garden:<\/strong> A unique and beautifully designed 18th-century garden in the town of Painswick.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Plus, the Cotswold Way is\u00a0 easily accessible by public transport\u00a0<\/p>\n
\n![\"coaley](\"https:\/\/monkeysandmountains.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Cotswold-Way-view-near-Coaley-Peak-Toposcope.jpg\"\/)
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\nThe Cotswold Way National Trail is one of 16 national trails found in the UK.<\/h3>\nHere\u2019s a list of all the national trails in the UK: Cleveland Way, Cotswold Way, Glyndwr\u2019s Way, Hadrian\u2019s Wall Path<\/a>, North Downs Way, Offa\u2019s Dyke Path, Peddars Way and Norfolk Coast Path, Pennine Bridleway, Pennine Way<\/a>, Pembrokeshire Coast Path, The Ridgeway, South Downs Way, South West Coast Path, Thames Path, The West Highland Way<\/a>, Yorkshire Wolds Way.\u00a0<\/p>\nYour Day By Day Itinerary Guide To Walking the Cotswold Way<\/h2>\nThe walk usually takes people between 7 to 10 days to complete and will take you through woodlands, wildflower meadows, historic battle sites, attractive villages and more.\u00a0<\/p>\n
I\u2019ve hiked in the UK for 20 years, have experience in teaching outdoor education and have walked the Cotswold Way, so you\u2019re in good hands. I\u2019ll share the highlights, point out tricky or technical sections if there are any, and share my favorite accommodations for walkers each day. Let\u2019s get started!<\/p>\n
Here\u2019s what an 8-day itinerary for walking the Cotswold Way looks like:<\/h3>\nDay 1: Walk From Chipping Campden To Stanton<\/h3>\n\n\n\n- Start Point: <\/strong>Chipping Campden<\/li>\n
- Distance: <\/strong>11 miles (17.7 km)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\n
\n- Total Ascent: <\/strong>429 m (1,409 ft)<\/li>\n
- Finish Point: <\/strong>Stanton<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n
![\"Dover's](\"https:\/\/monkeysandmountains.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Dovers-Hill.jpg\"\/)
Dover\u2019s Hill<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\nThe start of your walk begins in the historic market town of Chipping Campden. You begin with a brisk walk up the 230-meter-high Dover\u2019s Hill, where you get far-reaching views of the English countryside around you.<\/p>\n
Shortly after you\u2019ve finished with Dover\u2019s Hill, you\u2019ll arrive at Broadway Tower (a brick tower that looks like a castle) where you can catch your breath and enjoy the area\u2019s fantastic views.<\/p>\n
The final part of today\u2019s walk is marked with an ascent of the 304-meter Shenberrow Hill before you eventually descend into the 17th-century village of Stanton.<\/p>\n
There are a few places you can spend the night in Stanton<\/a>, including Shenberrow B&B, The Vine B&B, or The Stanton GuildHouse.<\/p>\nDay 2: Walk From Stanton To Cleeve Hill<\/h3>\n\n\n\n- Start Point: <\/strong>Stanton<\/li>\n
- Distance: <\/strong>13 miles (21 km)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\n
\n- Total Ascent: <\/strong>626 m (2,056 ft)<\/li>\n
- Finish Point: <\/strong>Cleeve Hill<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n
![\"Hailes](\"https:\/\/monkeysandmountains.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Hailes-Abbey.jpg\"\/)
Hailes Abbey<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\nAfter spending the night at the charming village of Stanton, it\u2019s time to make your way on the second day of your walk.<\/p>\n
One of the first things you\u2019ll pass is Stanton House, a stunning Jacobean Manor House and Water Gardens<\/a>.\u00a0 It\u2019s home to the tallest gravity fountain in the world.<\/p>\nYou\u2019ll then follow the path to the historic ruins of Hailes Abbey, a former Cistercian abbey, which marks the perfect spot for lunch.<\/p>\n
Once you\u2019ve finished lunch, you\u2019ll descend into the town of Winchcombe before passing the Grade 1 listed Sudeley Castle and its ten gardens.<\/p>\n
And you do all this before reaching my highlight of the day, Belas Knap,\u00a0 a huge Neolithic burial chamber.<\/p>\n
\n![\"Belas](\"https:\/\/monkeysandmountains.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Belas-KNap.jpg\"\/)
Belas Knap<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\nYou\u2019ll finish your day at 340 meters above sea level, on Cleeve Hill, the highest point of the Cotswold Way. And it\u2019s where you\u2019re going to spend the night.<\/p>\n
You only have one option for accommodation here, so make sure you book a night at the Upper Hill Farm Bed & Breakfast well in advance.<\/p>\n
Day 3: Walk From Cleeve Hill To Birdlip<\/h3>\n\n\n\n- Start Point: <\/strong>Cleeve Hill<\/li>\n
- Distance: <\/strong>16 miles (26km)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\n
\n- Total Ascent: <\/strong>699 m (2,295 ft)<\/li>\n
- Finish Point: <\/strong>Birdlip<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n
![\"Leckhampton](\"https:\/\/monkeysandmountains.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Leckhampton-Hill.jpg\"\/)
Devil\u2019s Chimney in Leckhampton Hill<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\nYou\u2019ll start your day by heading along the west side of the escarpment, which gives you stunning views of the town of Cheltenham and across the Vale of Gloucester.<\/p>\n
After a short walk, you\u2019ll make your way down to Dowdeswell Wood Nature Reserve, where you\u2019ll be walking parallel to it.<\/p>\n
During this section of the hike, you\u2019ll see an abundance of brightly coloured flowers that look like carpets to the trees. It\u2019s a beautiful part of today\u2019s walk if you hit the trail when the flowers are in full bloom.<\/p>\n
Shortly after, you\u2019ll pass Seven Springs, a small hamlet in a very wooded area. As you\u2019re hiking up the 300-meter-high Leckhampton Hill, keep an eye out for the Devil\u2019s Chimney, a very distinctive pinnacle of rock.<\/p>\n
You\u2019ll descend down Crickley Hill before reaching the village of Birdlip<\/a>, your resting place for the night.<\/p>\nAlthough today is officially surpassed to finish at Birdlip, I suggest stopping just before that at The Barn, which is an excellent little accommodation.<\/p>\n
Day 4: Walk From Birdlip To Painswick<\/h3>\n\n\n\n- Start Point: <\/strong>Birdlip<\/li>\n
- Distance: <\/strong>7 miles (12 km)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\n
\n- Total Ascent: <\/strong>279 m (918 ft)<\/li>\n
- Finish Point: <\/strong>Painswick<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n
![\"Painswick](\"https:\/\/monkeysandmountains.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Painswick.jpg\"\/)
Painswick Town<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\nToday\u2019s walk is excellent. You leave Birdlip and walk through woodland until you reach Cooper\u2019s Hill. For those of you that don\u2019t know, this is where you can see the site of the famous annual cheese rolling festival.<\/p>\n
You should make a short detour to visit the Prinknash Abbey, a Roman Catholic monastery; it\u2019s a beautiful location.<\/p>\n
Your final part of today\u2019s hiking is marked at Painswick Beacon, where you can see more stunning views across the Severn Vale.<\/p>\n
Your stopping point is the market town of Painswick<\/a>, where you can stay at The Falcon Inn<\/a>, Court House Manor<\/a>, or Croft House Guest Suite<\/a>.<\/p>\nDay 5: Walk From Painswick To King\u2019s Stanley<\/h3>\n\n\n\n- Start Point: <\/strong>Painswick<\/li>\n
- Distance: <\/strong>9 miles (14 km)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\n
\n- Total Ascent: <\/strong>354 m (1,162 ft)<\/li>\n
- Finish Point: <\/strong>King\u2019s Stanley<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n
![\"Haresfield](\"https:\/\/monkeysandmountains.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Haresfield-Beacon.jpg\"\/)
Haresfield Beacon<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\nToday was one of my favorite days of the whole hike. The first part of the walk takes you up the 256-meter Scottsquar Hill before heading to Haresfield Beacon (an area of scientific interest), where you can get stunning countryside views.<\/p>\n
You then head over to Stroudwater Canal before you reach the town of King\u2019s Stanley for the night.<\/p>\n
Be sure to check out Stanley Woollen Mills<\/a> for a glimpse into wool-making history. You can spend a night at the Orchardene or The Grey Cottage.<\/p>\nDay 6: Walk From King\u2019s Stanley To Wotton-Under-Edge<\/h3>\n\n\n\n- Start Point: <\/strong>King\u2019s Stanley<\/li>\n
- Distance: <\/strong>15 miles (24 km)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\n
\n- Total Ascent: <\/strong>780 m (2,561 ft)<\/li>\n
- Finish Point: <\/strong>Wotton-Under-Edge<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n
![\"a](\"https:\/\/monkeysandmountains.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/view-from-Wotton-Under-Edge.jpg\"\/)
view from Wotton-Under-Edge<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\nYour walk starts through the stunning ancient woods Called Penn Wood and features many sharp ascents and descents with great views of the area.<\/p>\n
The path continues out of the woodland and into farmland, where you\u2019ll reach the market town of Dursley.<\/p>\n
It\u2019s another steep climb onto Stinchcombe Hill (218 meters) before you reach North Nibley Village.<\/p>\n
Your day finally ends at the town of Wotton-Under-Edge,<\/a> where you can spend the night at The Swan<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n![\"Stinchcombe](\"https:\/\/monkeysandmountains.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/view-from-Stinchcombe-Hill.jpg\"\/)
Stinchcombe Hill<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\nDay 7: Walk From Wotton-Under-Edge To Tormarton<\/h3>\n\n\n\n- Start Point: <\/strong>Wotton-Under-Edge<\/li>\n
- Distance: <\/strong>15 miles (24 km)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\n
\n- Total Ascent: <\/strong>623 m (2,075 ft)<\/li>\n
- Finish Point: <\/strong>Tormarton<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n
![\"Somerset](\"https:\/\/monkeysandmountains.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Somerset-Monument.jpg\"\/)
Somerset Monument<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\nToday you will follow streams before rising up the escarpment to be greeted by some impressive views of the English countryside.<\/p>\n
The path continues through the countryside to the Somerset Monument<\/a>, which was built in 1846 to commemorate Lord Robert Edward Somerset.<\/p>\nAfter that, you pass through the Horton Court, considered the oldest vicarage in England. You then pass through the charming villages of Horton and Old Sodbury before reaching the town of Tormarton<\/a>.<\/p>\nYou can spend a night at the Noades Studio before taking on your final leg of the hike to Bath.<\/p>\n
Day 8: Walk From Tormarton To Bath<\/h3>\n\n\n\n- Start Point: <\/strong>Tormarton<\/li>\n
- Distance: <\/strong>16 miles (26 km)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\n
\n- Total Ascent: <\/strong>512 m (1,681 ft)<\/li>\n
- Finish Point: <\/strong>Bath<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n
![\"The](\"https:\/\/monkeysandmountains.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/The-Roman-Baths.jpg\"\/)
The Roman Baths<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\nShortly after leaving Tormarton, you reach the 17th-century house called Dyrham Park<\/a>, which is home to an ancient deer park.<\/p>\nSome of the highlights of this section of the walk are the famous Bath Racecourse and Prospect Stile, where you can look across to the Black Mountains in Wales.<\/p>\n
You\u2019ll finally arrive at Bath, where you\u2019ll spend the night<\/a> after a long day of walking. I highly recommend spending a day or two exploring this gorgeous city renowned for its Ancient Roman baths<\/em>, impressive Georgian buildings and historical landmarks.<\/p>\nThen.\u00a0 you can get a train back to wherever you need to get to fairly easily.<\/p>\n
Cotswold Way Accommodation Guide<\/h2>\nFor your easy reference, here is a list of where you\u2019ll want to book your accommodations for the 8-day itinerary:<\/p>\n
Arrival Day:<\/strong> Chipping Campden<\/p>\nDay 1:<\/strong> Stanton<\/a>. Our Recommendations: Shenberrow B&B, The Vine B&B or\u00a0 The Stanton GuildHouse<\/p>\nDay 2:<\/strong> Cleeve Hill. Our Recommendation: Upper Hill Farm Bed & Breakfast<\/p>\nDay 3:<\/strong> Birdlip<\/a>. Our Recommendation: The Barn<\/p>\nDay 4: <\/strong>Painswick<\/a>. Our Recommendations: The Falcon Inn<\/a>, Court House Manor<\/a> or Croft House Guest Suite<\/a><\/p>\nDay 5:<\/strong> King\u2019s Stanley. Our Recommendations: Orchardene or The Grey Cottage<\/p>\nDay 6:<\/strong> Wotton-Under-Edge<\/a>. Our Recommendation: The Swan<\/a><\/p>\nDay 7:<\/strong> Tormarton<\/a>. Our Recommendation: Noades Studio<\/p>\nDay 8: <\/strong>Bath<\/a><\/p>\nFrequently Asked Questions About Walking the Cotswold Way<\/h2>\n\n![\"Cotswold](\"https:\/\/monkeysandmountains.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/cotswold-way-foothpath.jpg\"\/)
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n- \n
- Passing through picturesque villages like Painswick, Stanton, and Broadway.<\/li>\n
- Walking through some of the most beautiful English countryside,\u00a0 including the Cotswold AONB (Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty).<\/li>\n
- Visiting historical and ancient sites, including ancient hill forts, Roman ruins, and medieval churches, including:\n
- \n
- Sudeley Castle:<\/strong> Located in Winchcombe and dating back over 1,000 years. It was also home to Queen Katherine Parr, the last wife of King Henry VIII.<\/li>\n
- Hailes Abbey: <\/strong>A ruined Cistercian monastery near Winchcombe that dates back to the 13th century.<\/li>\n
- Broadway Tower:<\/strong> An iconic folly located on top of Broadway Hill, which offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside and the second highest point in the Cotswolds.<\/li>\n
- Roman Baths:<\/strong> In Bath, well-preserved remains of the ancient Roman baths<\/li>\n
- Chipping Campden: A historic market town that is known for its beautiful architecture and picturesque streets, including the famous High Street.<\/li>\n
- Belas Knap:<\/strong> An ancient Neolithic long barrow that is one of the most well-preserved examples in the region.<\/li>\n
- Painswick Rococo Garden:<\/strong> A unique and beautifully designed 18th-century garden in the town of Painswick.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Plus, the Cotswold Way is\u00a0 easily accessible by public transport\u00a0<\/p>\n
\n<\/figure>\n<\/div>\nThe Cotswold Way National Trail is one of 16 national trails found in the UK.<\/h3>\n
Here\u2019s a list of all the national trails in the UK: Cleveland Way, Cotswold Way, Glyndwr\u2019s Way, Hadrian\u2019s Wall Path<\/a>, North Downs Way, Offa\u2019s Dyke Path, Peddars Way and Norfolk Coast Path, Pennine Bridleway, Pennine Way<\/a>, Pembrokeshire Coast Path, The Ridgeway, South Downs Way, South West Coast Path, Thames Path, The West Highland Way<\/a>, Yorkshire Wolds Way.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Your Day By Day Itinerary Guide To Walking the Cotswold Way<\/h2>\n
The walk usually takes people between 7 to 10 days to complete and will take you through woodlands, wildflower meadows, historic battle sites, attractive villages and more.\u00a0<\/p>\n
I\u2019ve hiked in the UK for 20 years, have experience in teaching outdoor education and have walked the Cotswold Way, so you\u2019re in good hands. I\u2019ll share the highlights, point out tricky or technical sections if there are any, and share my favorite accommodations for walkers each day. Let\u2019s get started!<\/p>\n
Here\u2019s what an 8-day itinerary for walking the Cotswold Way looks like:<\/h3>\n
Day 1: Walk From Chipping Campden To Stanton<\/h3>\n
\n\n- \n
- Start Point: <\/strong>Chipping Campden<\/li>\n
- Distance: <\/strong>11 miles (17.7 km)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n
\n- \n
- Total Ascent: <\/strong>429 m (1,409 ft)<\/li>\n
- Finish Point: <\/strong>Stanton<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
\nDover\u2019s Hill<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n The start of your walk begins in the historic market town of Chipping Campden. You begin with a brisk walk up the 230-meter-high Dover\u2019s Hill, where you get far-reaching views of the English countryside around you.<\/p>\n
Shortly after you\u2019ve finished with Dover\u2019s Hill, you\u2019ll arrive at Broadway Tower (a brick tower that looks like a castle) where you can catch your breath and enjoy the area\u2019s fantastic views.<\/p>\n
The final part of today\u2019s walk is marked with an ascent of the 304-meter Shenberrow Hill before you eventually descend into the 17th-century village of Stanton.<\/p>\n
There are a few places you can spend the night in Stanton<\/a>, including Shenberrow B&B, The Vine B&B, or The Stanton GuildHouse.<\/p>\n
Day 2: Walk From Stanton To Cleeve Hill<\/h3>\n
\n\n- \n
- Start Point: <\/strong>Stanton<\/li>\n
- Distance: <\/strong>13 miles (21 km)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n
\n- \n
- Total Ascent: <\/strong>626 m (2,056 ft)<\/li>\n
- Finish Point: <\/strong>Cleeve Hill<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
\nHailes Abbey<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n After spending the night at the charming village of Stanton, it\u2019s time to make your way on the second day of your walk.<\/p>\n
One of the first things you\u2019ll pass is Stanton House, a stunning Jacobean Manor House and Water Gardens<\/a>.\u00a0 It\u2019s home to the tallest gravity fountain in the world.<\/p>\n
You\u2019ll then follow the path to the historic ruins of Hailes Abbey, a former Cistercian abbey, which marks the perfect spot for lunch.<\/p>\n
Once you\u2019ve finished lunch, you\u2019ll descend into the town of Winchcombe before passing the Grade 1 listed Sudeley Castle and its ten gardens.<\/p>\n
And you do all this before reaching my highlight of the day, Belas Knap,\u00a0 a huge Neolithic burial chamber.<\/p>\n
\nBelas Knap<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n You\u2019ll finish your day at 340 meters above sea level, on Cleeve Hill, the highest point of the Cotswold Way. And it\u2019s where you\u2019re going to spend the night.<\/p>\n
You only have one option for accommodation here, so make sure you book a night at the Upper Hill Farm Bed & Breakfast well in advance.<\/p>\n
Day 3: Walk From Cleeve Hill To Birdlip<\/h3>\n
\n\n- \n
- Start Point: <\/strong>Cleeve Hill<\/li>\n
- Distance: <\/strong>16 miles (26km)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n
\n- \n
- Total Ascent: <\/strong>699 m (2,295 ft)<\/li>\n
- Finish Point: <\/strong>Birdlip<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
\nDevil\u2019s Chimney in Leckhampton Hill<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n You\u2019ll start your day by heading along the west side of the escarpment, which gives you stunning views of the town of Cheltenham and across the Vale of Gloucester.<\/p>\n
After a short walk, you\u2019ll make your way down to Dowdeswell Wood Nature Reserve, where you\u2019ll be walking parallel to it.<\/p>\n
During this section of the hike, you\u2019ll see an abundance of brightly coloured flowers that look like carpets to the trees. It\u2019s a beautiful part of today\u2019s walk if you hit the trail when the flowers are in full bloom.<\/p>\n
Shortly after, you\u2019ll pass Seven Springs, a small hamlet in a very wooded area. As you\u2019re hiking up the 300-meter-high Leckhampton Hill, keep an eye out for the Devil\u2019s Chimney, a very distinctive pinnacle of rock.<\/p>\n
You\u2019ll descend down Crickley Hill before reaching the village of Birdlip<\/a>, your resting place for the night.<\/p>\n
Although today is officially surpassed to finish at Birdlip, I suggest stopping just before that at The Barn, which is an excellent little accommodation.<\/p>\n
Day 4: Walk From Birdlip To Painswick<\/h3>\n
\n\n- \n
- Start Point: <\/strong>Birdlip<\/li>\n
- Distance: <\/strong>7 miles (12 km)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n
\n- \n
- Total Ascent: <\/strong>279 m (918 ft)<\/li>\n
- Finish Point: <\/strong>Painswick<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
\nPainswick Town<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n Today\u2019s walk is excellent. You leave Birdlip and walk through woodland until you reach Cooper\u2019s Hill. For those of you that don\u2019t know, this is where you can see the site of the famous annual cheese rolling festival.<\/p>\n
You should make a short detour to visit the Prinknash Abbey, a Roman Catholic monastery; it\u2019s a beautiful location.<\/p>\n
Your final part of today\u2019s hiking is marked at Painswick Beacon, where you can see more stunning views across the Severn Vale.<\/p>\n
Your stopping point is the market town of Painswick<\/a>, where you can stay at The Falcon Inn<\/a>, Court House Manor<\/a>, or Croft House Guest Suite<\/a>.<\/p>\n
Day 5: Walk From Painswick To King\u2019s Stanley<\/h3>\n
\n\n- \n
- Start Point: <\/strong>Painswick<\/li>\n
- Distance: <\/strong>9 miles (14 km)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n
\n- \n
- Total Ascent: <\/strong>354 m (1,162 ft)<\/li>\n
- Finish Point: <\/strong>King\u2019s Stanley<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
\nHaresfield Beacon<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n Today was one of my favorite days of the whole hike. The first part of the walk takes you up the 256-meter Scottsquar Hill before heading to Haresfield Beacon (an area of scientific interest), where you can get stunning countryside views.<\/p>\n
You then head over to Stroudwater Canal before you reach the town of King\u2019s Stanley for the night.<\/p>\n
Be sure to check out Stanley Woollen Mills<\/a> for a glimpse into wool-making history. You can spend a night at the Orchardene or The Grey Cottage.<\/p>\n
Day 6: Walk From King\u2019s Stanley To Wotton-Under-Edge<\/h3>\n
\n\n- \n
- Start Point: <\/strong>King\u2019s Stanley<\/li>\n
- Distance: <\/strong>15 miles (24 km)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n
\n- \n
- Total Ascent: <\/strong>780 m (2,561 ft)<\/li>\n
- Finish Point: <\/strong>Wotton-Under-Edge<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
\nview from Wotton-Under-Edge<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n Your walk starts through the stunning ancient woods Called Penn Wood and features many sharp ascents and descents with great views of the area.<\/p>\n
The path continues out of the woodland and into farmland, where you\u2019ll reach the market town of Dursley.<\/p>\n
It\u2019s another steep climb onto Stinchcombe Hill (218 meters) before you reach North Nibley Village.<\/p>\n
Your day finally ends at the town of Wotton-Under-Edge,<\/a> where you can spend the night at The Swan<\/a>.<\/p>\n
\nStinchcombe Hill<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n Day 7: Walk From Wotton-Under-Edge To Tormarton<\/h3>\n
\n\n- \n
- Start Point: <\/strong>Wotton-Under-Edge<\/li>\n
- Distance: <\/strong>15 miles (24 km)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n
\n- \n
- Total Ascent: <\/strong>623 m (2,075 ft)<\/li>\n
- Finish Point: <\/strong>Tormarton<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
\nSomerset Monument<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n Today you will follow streams before rising up the escarpment to be greeted by some impressive views of the English countryside.<\/p>\n
The path continues through the countryside to the Somerset Monument<\/a>, which was built in 1846 to commemorate Lord Robert Edward Somerset.<\/p>\n
After that, you pass through the Horton Court, considered the oldest vicarage in England. You then pass through the charming villages of Horton and Old Sodbury before reaching the town of Tormarton<\/a>.<\/p>\n
You can spend a night at the Noades Studio before taking on your final leg of the hike to Bath.<\/p>\n
Day 8: Walk From Tormarton To Bath<\/h3>\n
\n\n- \n
- Start Point: <\/strong>Tormarton<\/li>\n
- Distance: <\/strong>16 miles (26 km)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n
\n- \n
- Total Ascent: <\/strong>512 m (1,681 ft)<\/li>\n
- Finish Point: <\/strong>Bath<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
\nThe Roman Baths<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n Shortly after leaving Tormarton, you reach the 17th-century house called Dyrham Park<\/a>, which is home to an ancient deer park.<\/p>\n
Some of the highlights of this section of the walk are the famous Bath Racecourse and Prospect Stile, where you can look across to the Black Mountains in Wales.<\/p>\n
You\u2019ll finally arrive at Bath, where you\u2019ll spend the night<\/a> after a long day of walking. I highly recommend spending a day or two exploring this gorgeous city renowned for its Ancient Roman baths<\/em>, impressive Georgian buildings and historical landmarks.<\/p>\n
Then.\u00a0 you can get a train back to wherever you need to get to fairly easily.<\/p>\n
Cotswold Way Accommodation Guide<\/h2>\n
For your easy reference, here is a list of where you\u2019ll want to book your accommodations for the 8-day itinerary:<\/p>\n
Arrival Day:<\/strong> Chipping Campden<\/p>\n
Day 1:<\/strong> Stanton<\/a>. Our Recommendations: Shenberrow B&B, The Vine B&B or\u00a0 The Stanton GuildHouse<\/p>\n
Day 2:<\/strong> Cleeve Hill. Our Recommendation: Upper Hill Farm Bed & Breakfast<\/p>\n
Day 3:<\/strong> Birdlip<\/a>. Our Recommendation: The Barn<\/p>\n
Day 4: <\/strong>Painswick<\/a>. Our Recommendations: The Falcon Inn<\/a>, Court House Manor<\/a> or Croft House Guest Suite<\/a><\/p>\n
Day 5:<\/strong> King\u2019s Stanley. Our Recommendations: Orchardene or The Grey Cottage<\/p>\n
Day 6:<\/strong> Wotton-Under-Edge<\/a>. Our Recommendation: The Swan<\/a><\/p>\n
Day 7:<\/strong> Tormarton<\/a>. Our Recommendation: Noades Studio<\/p>\n
Day 8: <\/strong>Bath<\/a><\/p>\n
Frequently Asked Questions About Walking the Cotswold Way<\/h2>\n
\n<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n - Finish Point: <\/strong>Bath<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
- Distance: <\/strong>16 miles (26 km)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n
- Finish Point: <\/strong>Tormarton<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
- Distance: <\/strong>15 miles (24 km)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n
- Finish Point: <\/strong>Wotton-Under-Edge<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
- Distance: <\/strong>15 miles (24 km)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n
- Finish Point: <\/strong>King\u2019s Stanley<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
- Distance: <\/strong>9 miles (14 km)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n
- Finish Point: <\/strong>Painswick<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
- Distance: <\/strong>7 miles (12 km)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n
- Finish Point: <\/strong>Birdlip<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
- Distance: <\/strong>16 miles (26km)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n
- Finish Point: <\/strong>Cleeve Hill<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
- Distance: <\/strong>13 miles (21 km)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n
- Finish Point: <\/strong>Stanton<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
- Distance: <\/strong>11 miles (17.7 km)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n
- Hailes Abbey: <\/strong>A ruined Cistercian monastery near Winchcombe that dates back to the 13th century.<\/li>\n
- Sudeley Castle:<\/strong> Located in Winchcombe and dating back over 1,000 years. It was also home to Queen Katherine Parr, the last wife of King Henry VIII.<\/li>\n