Cotswold Way: 6-Day Moderate Hike

DAY 1: Arrival in Chipping Campden

From your point of arrival, use the public transport information we provide to make the journey to Chipping Campden.

DAY 2: Chipping Campden to Stanton

Distance 17km • Approximate Walking Time 4 - 6 hours • Ascent (↑) 410m

The quintessential Cotswold village is packed with history, beautifully maintained and full of wonderful old buildings - Chipping Campden, Broadway and Stanton all epitomise these qualities. Other highlights include stunning views across to the Severn Valley in Wales from Dover’s Hill and the many ancient trees you pass on the trail.

DAY 3: Stanton to Cleeve Hill

22km • 5 - 8 hours • (↑) 560m

A day full of historical treasures for you to uncover. The ancient ruins of a Cistercian monastery at Hailes and Sudeley Castle, not far from the trail at Winchcombe, are both stunning examples of the region’s rich history. However, the highlight of this walk may well be an incredibly well-preserved burial site dating back over 5,000 years at Belas Knap.

DAY 4: Cleeve Hill to Leckhampton Hill

18km • 4 - 6 hours • (↑) 460m

Far-reaching views from the top of Cleeve Common (at 317m - the highest point of the walk) where the Brecon Beacons in Wales are visible on a clear day. Lineover Wood, where some trees date back over 700 years is particularly impressive.

DAY 5: Leckhampton Hill to Painswick

20km • 5 - 7 hours • (↑) 490m

Early in the day, you pass through Crickley Hill Country Park with wonderful views from the escarpment over the plains below. The quiet walker will have a good chance to spot some of the wild deer that roam the majestic beech tree forests close to Birdlip. The trail descends via a golf course into the picturesque little town of Painswick.

DAY 6: Departure from Painswick

There are regular bus services from Painswick to Cheltenham and Bristol and onward to other destinations in the UK.