A Trip Round the Cotswolds

This circuit takes you through the northern Cotswolds, passing by iconic destinations such as Broadway, Chipping Campden, Stow-on-the-Wold, and Bourton-on-the-Water.

A Trip Round the Cotswolds

Embark on a captivating journey through the enchanting landscapes of the Cotswolds with this road trip. This route showcases some of the finest Cotswold towns, charming villages, historic churches, and majestic country houses. This route spotlights the northern region of the Cotswolds, showcasing notable attractions such as Sudeley Castle, the picturesque villages of Stanton and Snowshill, the iconic Broadway Tower, the historic town of Chipping Campden, the filming site of Father Brown in Blockley, the charming locales of Stow-on-the-Wold, Bourton-on-the-Water, and the scenic areas known as the Slaughters.

Tips for Driving in the Cotswolds

• The roads in the Cotswolds are frequently narrow and may consist of a single lane, so it's advisable to drive cautiously and be ready to stop when necessary. In situations where you encounter a vehicle coming from the opposite direction, single-lane roads typically feature passing spots; however, if none are available, you might need to edge onto the roadside to allow them to pass.
• Parking can pose challenges in the more bustling Cotswold towns and villages, particularly during the summer months and on weekends, so keep this in consideration when planning your trip.

Highlights

Cleeve Hill

• Northeast from Cheltenham, here you can ascend to the highest point in the Cotswolds
• Stop at Quarry Car Park for panoramic views; follow Cotswold Way signs
• Explore Cleeve Common's scenic walking trails, offering breath vistas and diverse wildlife

Winchcombe & Sudeley Castle

• Discover the historic town of Winchcombe, rooted in Saxon history
• Explore 15th-century Sudeley Castle, the final resting place of Henry VIII’s wife, Katherine Parr
• Wander through ten diverse gardens and delve into the castle's rich history and exhibitions

Stanway

• Discover Stanway House and its 300-foot-high public fountain (typically open Tuesdays & Thursdays in summer)

Stanton & Broadway

• Travel through Stanton, a picturesque village with vintage lanterns and Cotswold stone buildings covered with flowers
• In Broadway, explore shops, cafes and restaurants, as well as the Gordon Russell Design Museum and Broadway Museum and Art Gallery

Snowshill & Cotswold Lavender

• Visit Snowshill Manor's trove of quirky and curious objects and Arts and Crafts gardens
• Admire Cotswold Lavender's vibrant summer fields (typically open to the public in June/July)

Broadway Tower & Buckle Street

• See Broadway Tower, a historical artists' retreat with a viewpoint of over 16 counties
• Explore the tower or visit the hidden nuclear bunker beneath

Chipping Campden

• Explore the High Street of this former wool town
• Learn more about the Arts and Crafts movement at Court Barn Museum, or see art exhibitions at The Old Silk Mill

Blockley & Bourton on the Hill

• Explore 'Father Brown' filming locations in Blockley, including the church and vicarage
• The drive towards Moreton-in-Marsh via B4479/A44 has optional stops at Batsford Arboretum or Bourton House Garden for garden lovers, as well as the Wellington Aviation Museum

Moreton-in-Marsh & Stow-on-the-Wold

• Hilltop Stow has plenty of cafes, restaurants and pubs to stop by for lunch, including Huffkins Bakery, Cotswold Baguettes, or The Porch House
• Visit Edward’s Church with its iconic Yew Tree Door

Lower and Upper Slaughter

• Experience Copsehill Road, once voted England's most romantic street
• See historic cottages and stone bridges across the River Eye, where you can optionally visit or stay at Slaughters Country Inn
• Choose to walk to Upper Slaughter via Becky Hill or drive to Bourton-on-the-Water

Bourton-on-the-Water

• Explore popular attractions like the Model Village, Cotswold Motoring Museum, Birdland, and Dragonfly Maze
• Enjoy waterside pubs and tea rooms

Cheltenham

• Explore Wilson Art Gallery and Museum, Holst Victorian House, and Pittville Pump Room
• Shop at Montpellier and the Suffolks
• Enjoy an evening dinner at one of the many places to eat, including Lumiere, Petit Coco, Kibou, and Gallimores Kitchen