Zwann- Self Guided - The Cotswolds Way

Helen and Johannes Zwann

Thursday 12th September – Monday 23rd September 2024

Number of Travellers: 2
Duration: 12 Days / 11 Nights

Overview

On this self guided trail, you’ll discover the quintessential scenery of this beautiful part of England; chocolate-box villages, quiet country lanes, and mile after mile of lush green hills and wildflower-strewn valleys. This area has a long and rich history and as you travel the route there are archaeological sites to discover from both Roman and Neolithic times. The small villages you pass through often feature impressive churches and nearby stately homes, a product of the lucrative wool trade begun in the Middle Ages. It’s no wonder this area was a favourite of many famous figures including literary giants like Jane Austen, Alexander Pope, J.M Barrie, and T.S Elliot, as well as notable members of the Royal Family and modern-day British celebrities. Immerse yourself in some of the most beautiful scenery England has to offer as you hike this iconic trail.

Highlights

  • Idyllic Countryside: Discover the timeless beauty of rolling hills, verdant meadows, and quaint villages nestled amidst the Cotswolds' picturesque landscape.
  • Rich Heritage: Immerse yourself in centuries of history as you explore historic landmarks, ancient ruins, and charming market towns steeped in tradition.
  • Tranquil Escape: Find peace and serenity in the tranquil surroundings of the Cotswolds, where meandering trails, hidden gardens, and cozy country inns invite relaxation and rejuvenation.

Day by Day

Day 1 - Thursday 12th September - Arrive in Medieval Chipping Campden

Make your own way to the beautiful market town of Chipping Campden. It’s worth arriving in time to explore the town which, despite its relatively small size, has 256 historic listed buildings including the Grade I listed Market Hall and Church of St James. Wander among the attractive limestone buildings and elegant High Street, dating from the 14th to 17th centuries before enjoying a relaxing dinner, ready for the next day’s adventure.

Overnight: Chipping Campden | The Volunteer Inn
Meals Included: None

Day 1 - Directions Read More +

You will find the Volunteer Inn at the bottom of the Lower High Street on arrival in Chipping Campden

Day 1 - Chipping Campden Read More +

Noted for its outstanding natural beauty, the charming town of Chipping Campden is where you will find the perfect balance of classic Cotswold scenes of warm honey-coloured stone and rolling hills. The combination of classic traditional limestone buildings, its historic Market Hall Street and surrounding farms is a great way to start The Cotswold Way.

Day 2 - Friday 13th September - Chipping Campden to Stanton

Setting out today at the beginning of the trail you’ll journey south-west, heading into the heart of the Cotswolds hills. After a short climb, you’ll summit Dover’s Hill which offers sweeping views of the surrounding countryside. It’s worth starting your day relatively early in order to fully enjoy your time at the 3 storey Broadway Tower. Admire the views over 16 counties and don’t forget to check out the exhibition. Treat yourself to a well-deserved break in the cafe, or picnic in the extensive grounds and deer park. Continue your hike to Broadway Village, said to be the most photographed village in England, and on past farms and gently rolling hills to the village of Stanton and your accommodation for this evening.

Overnight: Stanton | The Vine B&B
Meals Included: Breakfast
Walk Details: 17 km / 11 miles | 378 m / 1,240 ft elevation gain

Day 2 - Directions Read More +

The Way will bring you onto High Street in Stanton. Take a left and follow the road for 0.2 miles and you will find The Vine B&B on your right, on the corner of High Street and Stanway Road this is your accommodation for the next two nights. Please note the only place to dine in Stanton is The Mount- which does take bookings but gets extremely busy- do book ahead to avoid disappointment- here are the details:

The Mount Inn – https://www.themountinn.co.uk/

+44 (0)1386 584316

Day 2 - Broadway Read More +

Nestled amidst the rolling hills of the Cotswolds, Broadway Village exudes quintessential English charm. Cobblestone streets wind through this picturesque hamlet, lined with honey-hued limestone cottages adorned with blooming floral displays. The village green is a focal point, where locals and visitors gather to soak in the tranquil atmosphere and admire the historic architecture. Quaint tearooms offer delightful treats, while artisanal shops showcase unique treasures.

Day 3 - Saturday 14th September - Stanton to Cleeve Hill

Today you’ll really start to discover the rich and ancient history of the area as you reach Beckbury camp, an Iron Age fort that dates back to 2000 BC. It’s easy to see why this spot was chosen as the vantage point offers incredible views to the mountains of Wales over 70 miles away. Moving on, you’ll pass the ruins of 13th century Hailes Abbey, where you may decide to visit the museum before continuing your journey into the past at Belas Knap. This extensive Neolithic burial chamber is where ancient people would gather to bury their dead over 5000 years ago.  A final push to the summit of Cleeve Hill, the highest point in the Cotswolds range, is rewarded by fantastic views over Cheltenham, the River Severn, the Malvern Hills and, in good visibility, the Black Mountains of Wales. After an exhilarating descent, look forward to relaxing in tonight’s welcoming accommodation.

Overnight: Stanton | The Vine B&B
Meals Included: Breakfast
Walk Details: 23 km / 14 miles | 522 m / 1,713 ft elevation gain

Day 3 - Directions Read More +

From Cleeve Hill, make your way towards the B4632 by joining the Rising Sun lane which leads on to the Rising Sun Hotel your taxi transfer will meet you here at 5pm to transfer you back to The Vine where you will spend your second evening.

Taxi transfer by Broadway Taxi’s has been pre-booked so doesn’t need confirming unless you wish to make alternative arrangements.

Broadway Taxi’s-  07407707044

They will collect you tomorrow morning from the Vine at 9am to return you to Cleeve Hill to start your walk.

Day 3 - Cleeve Hill Read More +

As the highest point of Gloucestershire and The Cotswold Way, Cleeve Hill looks down over the town of Cheltenham. In the distance to the west lie the Malvern Hills and beyond, Wales. Cleeve Hill is well known for its exceptional golf and beautiful countryside.

Day 4 - Sunday 15th September - Cleeve Hill to Birdlip

After being dropped off by Broadway taxi’s this morning’s walk starts on quiet country lanes, takes a path through Dowdeswell Wood to the reservoir then continues on through beautiful Lineover Wood with its ancient beech trees. Climb up to Wistley Plantation and on over farmland before heading down to Seven Springs, thought by some to be the source of the River Thames. By afternoon the countryside opens up as you ascend a series of moderate hills including Leckhampton, which features a hill fort as well as being a Site of Special Scientific Interest due to the geology and biodiversity of the area. Look out for the Devil’s Chimney rock formation as well as small mammals, birds of prey and, if you’re lucky, rare butterflies attracted by the limestone grassland. You can also see old tramway routes as well as the remains of kilns and limestone quarries. The final summit is on Crickley Hill which is jointly owned and managed by the National Trust and Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust. From here it is just a short walk to your accommodation in the village of Birdlip.

Overnight: Gloucester | The Royal George Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Walk Details: 25 km / 16 miles | 452 m / 1,483 ft elevation gain

Day 4 - Directions Read More +

As you approach the village of Birdlip the trail will bring you out onto Birdlip Hill. Take a left onto Birdlip Hl and follow the road until you reach The Royal George Hotel on your left-hand side.

Day 4 - Birdlip Read More +

Halfway through your journey on The Cotswold Way, you will reach the peaceful village of Birdlip, where you will spend the night. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the rich English countryside. Look out for the wildlife: You may catch a glimpse of the elusive animals such as otters, water voles and harvest mice, or perhaps rare butterflies such as Small Blue (Cupido Minimus) and the Duke of Burgundy Fritillary (Hamearis Lucina) attracted by the limestone grassland.

Day 5 - Monday 16th September - Birdlip to Kings Stanley

After a gentle start to the day, you’ll tackle a steep climb to the top of Coopers Hill which is famous for its annual cheese rolling festival. Although today is a longer hike, if you have the energy it’s worth taking a short detour to Painswick Beacon where you can see the remains of an Iron Age fort before making your way to the picturesque town of Painswick, the midpoint of the Cotswold Way. Do spend some time exploring this pretty hamlet, and seek out the impressive church and 99 yew trees. As the trail rises up out of the town, you’ll be walking through what is widely believed to be one of the most beautiful sections of the route. You can’t help but notice the countless dry stone walls which are such an iconic feature of the Cotswold landscape, and which offer amazing habitats and wildlife corridors. Having enjoyed the ever-changing scenery, from open grassland with sweeping views to shady woods carpeted with wildflowers, you’ll eventually cross the Stroud Canal to Stanley Mill which once employed over 1000 people at the height of the woollen trade. Your accommodation at Kings Stanley awaits.

Overnight: Stonehouse, Stroud | Stonehouse Court Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Walk Details: 27 km / 17 miles | 491 m / 1,611 ft elevation gain

Day 5 - Directions Read More +

As you approach Kings Stanley follow the Cotswold Way onto Ebley Road. Turn right and follow for a short distance until you turn left onto Ryeford Road North.Follow this road until you come out on the A419. Cross the road and take a right onto the path that runs beside the A419 until you join up with Bristol Road. Turn left onto Bristol road and follow the road for 0.4 miles to you until you reach the sign for Stonehouse Court Hotel on your left-hand side.

Day 5 - Kings Stanley Read More +

The delightful village of King’s Stanley is home to the oldest Baptist church in Gloucestershire, which first began its meetings there in 1640. Take time to visit the 12th century church of St George. The village also boasts a selection of shops, including a supermarket, and a number of small independent businesses.

Day 6 - Tuesday 17th September - Kings Stanley to Wotton-under-Edge

Although you may be tempted to linger in one of the attractive village greens, particularly when the hanging baskets and window boxes are in full bloom, you will need to head out soon to tackle a series of short but fairly sharp ups and downs. These are interspersed by gentle, undulating paths guiding you through the stunning countryside of the Cotswold Way.  People have lived and worked here for thousands of years and encountering evidence of these communities, such as the remains of a Neolithic burial site at Nympsfield Long Barrow, is always intriguing. Although you’ll feel a sense of achievement having made it up the steep slope to Tyndale monument, it’s worth the extra effort to climb the 121 steps to be rewarded with incredible panoramic views. The last stretch of today’s journey takes in Wotton Hill before arriving in Wotton-under-Edge, your home for the night.

Overnight: Wotton-under-Edge | The Swan Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Walk Details: 24 km / 15 miles | 638 m / 2,093 ft elevation gain

Day 6 - Directions Read More +

The Way will bring you into the village of Wotton-under-Edge. Follow the high street until you reach Market Street on your right. Turn down Market Street and you will find The Swan Hotel a short distance down on your left.

Day 6 - Wotton-under-Edge Read More +

The medieval village of Wotton-under-Edge has remained largely undisturbed since the 12th century. Previously known as Wotton White Church in the 18th and 19th centuries, after its beautiful church which lies at the top of the valley, the quaint market village comprises narrow lanes which zigzag up and down the steep valley with its stoned cottages and independent family shops that includes bakeries, butchers, a book shop and an old picture house. Here you will also find a heritage centre where you can learn more about its fascinating history.

Day 7 - Wednesday 18th September - Wotton-under-Edge to Tormarton

Following a stream out of Wotton-Under-Edge, you’ll climb to the top of Blackquarries Hill where you can stop to admire the wonderful views before walking through woodland towards Alderley village. Passing through a picturesque valley, you can see remnants of medieval ridge-and-furrow. As you follow a sunken lane you’ll walk through peaceful countryside before climbing gently past the Somerset Monument and on to another impressive Iron Age fort with extensive views opening out over the Severn Vale and beyond. Passing through farm and parkland this afternoon, you’ll finish your day in the small village of Tormarton. Here you can visit the 12th century St. Mary Magdalene church.

Overnight: Near Badminton | The Compass Inn
Meals Included: Breakfast
Walk Details: 24 km / 15 miles | 461 m / 1,512 ft elevation gain

Day 7 - Directions Read More +

As you approach Tormarton, you will turn right onto Acton Turville Rd and follow the road to the hotel. The Compass Inn will be on your left-hand-side

Day 7 - Tormarton Read More +

Passing through farm and parkland this afternoon you’ll finish your day in the small rural village of Tormarton. Here you can visit the 12th-century and grade 1 listed St. Mary Magdalene church. With a small population of 350, the peaceful village of Tormarton is the perfect location to relax after a long day of walking. Tormarton is a farming village which revolves around agriculture, there are no shops or schools but there is a few local businesses including a pub to unwind in.

Day 8 - Thursday 19th September - Tormarton to Bath

Begin your final hike today by heading south through farmland to the village of Dyrham before passing near the National Trust property of Dyrham Park. This is a 17th-century mansion with beautiful gardens and ancient deer park. Continue on through Dyrham Woods to Cold Ashton village then climb out of the valley to the site of the bloody Civil War Battle of Lansdown. As the route levels out you’ll pass a small hill fort; take a moment to enjoy your last views on this fantastic trail before heading down to the city of Bath in the valley below. As you leave the rural landscape behind, enjoy approaching the city through lovely parks and be impressed by the magnificent Georgian architecture as you make your way to the west doors of historic Bath Abbey. A disc carved out of blue limestone marks the end of the Cotswold Way. Celebrate your achievement by experiencing some of the sights and sounds of the city and look forward to a well-deserved rest in your last accommodation.

Overnight: Bath | The Queensberry Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Walk Details: 27 km / 17 miles | 392 m / 1,286 ft elevation gain

Day 8 - Directions Read More +

The official end of the Cotswolds Way is a stone marker outside the Market Hall and Bath Abbey. The Queensberry Hotel is located on Russell Street this is about a 15 minute walk from the Bath Abbey and there are number of walking route options. One being from Bath Abbey churchyard and facing the abbey, take the road to your left (High Street) and follow this until your reach Northgate Street on your left. Join Northgate Street which quickly changes to Broad Street, and then merges with Belmont Street. Following Belmont Street, you will reach Bennett Street on your left. Take Bennett Street for a very short distance until you find Russell Street on the right. You will find Queensberry Hotel a short distance up Russell Street on the left hand side.

Day 8 - Bath Read More +

Your final destination is the UNESCO heritage city of Bath, which is named after its Roman-built baths. Here you can experience and learn how the Romans used the natural hot springs as a thermal spa nearly two thousand years ago. Take your time to explore the labyrinth of cobbled market streets and enjoy the many small independent shops and places to eat. You’ll be spoilt for choice.

Day 9 - Friday 20th September - Free Day in Bath

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast this morning before exploring this wonderful city. Perhaps you can enjoy a walking tour where you will discover the secrets of the city, enjoy incredible food and drink and of course, visit the historic Roman Baths. It’s the perfect way to finish your journey through the Cotswolds.

Overnight: Bath | The Queensberry Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 9 - Directions Read More +

The official end of the Cotswolds Way is a stone marker outside the Market Hall and Bath Abbey. The Queensberry Hotel is located on Russell Street this is about a 15 minute walk from the Bath Abbey and there are number of walking route options. One being from Bath Abbey churchyard and facing the abbey, take the road to your left (High Street) and follow this until your reach Northgate Street on your left. Join Northgate Street which quickly changes to Broad Street, and then merges with Belmont Street. Following Belmont Street, you will reach Bennett Street on your left. Take Bennett Street for a very short distance until you find Russell Street on the right. You will find Queensberry Hotel a short distance up Russell Street on the left hand side.

Day 10 - Saturday 21st September - Free Day in Bath

Overnight: Bath | The Queensberry Hotel

Day 10 - Directions Read More +

The official end of the Cotswolds Way is a stone marker outside the Market Hall and Bath Abbey. The Queensberry Hotel is located on Russell Street this is about a 15 minute walk from the Bath Abbey and there are number of walking route options. One being from Bath Abbey churchyard and facing the abbey, take the road to your left (High Street) and follow this until your reach Northgate Street on your left. Join Northgate Street which quickly changes to Broad Street, and then merges with Belmont Street. Following Belmont Street, you will reach Bennett Street on your left. Take Bennett Street for a very short distance until you find Russell Street on the right. You will find Queensberry Hotel a short distance up Russell Street on the left hand side.

Day 11 - Sunday 22nd September - Free Day in Bath

Overnight: Bath | The Queensberry Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 11 - Directions Read More +

The official end of the Cotswolds Way is a stone marker outside the Market Hall and Bath Abbey. The Queensberry Hotel is located on Russell Street this is about a 15 minute walk from the Bath Abbey and there are number of walking route options. One being from Bath Abbey churchyard and facing the abbey, take the road to your left (High Street) and follow this until your reach Northgate Street on your left. Join Northgate Street which quickly changes to Broad Street, and then merges with Belmont Street. Following Belmont Street, you will reach Bennett Street on your left. Take Bennett Street for a very short distance until you find Russell Street on the right. You will find Queensberry Hotel a short distance up Russell Street on the left hand side.

Day 12 - Monday 23rd September - Depart

Enjoy a final breakfast in this wonderful city before heading for your onward journey home.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Trip Details

Inclusions Read More
  • Accommodation on a Bed and Breakfast basis in Guest Houses, Bed and Breakfasts, Small Hotels and Inns on the route
  • Luggage transfer for 1 bag per person for the duration of the trip, meaning you will only have to carry a day rucksack. Strict weight limit of 20kg per bag.
  • Route notes which include a map and full directions to your accommodation.
  • The services of the Wilderness England Team prior to & during your trip.
Notes Read More

Your Baggage Transfer Service
Whilst on the Cotswolds Way your luggage will be transferred each day between accommodation providers by Cotswolds Transfer Company. Please label your bag clearly with your name for day one.

Please note that strictly one bag per person is included in the trip price and bags should weigh no more than 20 kgs per bag.

Please have your bags available at 8.30am each day for collection. There is no need to contact Cotswolds Transfer as everything has been arranged for you. However, if you do need to contact them, they can be reached on  +44 (0)1386 840 688.

GENERAL INFORMATION

Bed & Breakfast

Breakfast is included at all stages of your trip.

Packed Lunches

These are not included but can be ordered from most establishments, provided that you order upon arrival. Alternatively, on most days there are cafes, shops or restaurants where you can buy lunch on route. Your accommodation host will be able to advise you on this.

Evening Meals

These are not included but are available locally at all stages. It is strongly recommended evening meals are booked as far in advance as possible.

Dietary/Medical Requirements

Please advise the accommodation owners on arrival if you are vegetarian, vegan or have any other special dietary requirements.

Accommodation Bookings

Since your accommodation has been booked on your behalf by Wilderness England, it may be necessary to quote our name as a reference on arrival at your accommodation.

Important – Late Arrivals

Accommodation providers ask walkers to telephone them to advise if they intend to arrive any later than 1800 hrs. Walkers who do not arrive at their intended overnight stop will cause grave concern in respect of safety, so co‐operation in this matter is greatly appreciated. Contact phone numbers for all of your accommodations are provided in this pack.

Cancellation

If you decide that you cannot continue your walk, please let us know as soon as possible so that we can contact the establishments concerned.

Credit Cards

The majority of establishments will accept credit cards (Visa and MasterCard are widely accepted but not Diners or American Express).

Insurance

Our aim is for you to have the best experience possible whilst in England. We are aware that unforeseen circumstances can be quite challenging so our advice to all of our guests is to take out relevant insurance to help make things less of a challenge if the unforeseen happens. If travelling from a European country outside the UK your insurance policy should include medical cover, curtailment, sickness & injury cancellation prior to the trip and personal accident cover. We also strongly recommend you have cover for other travel and personal effects. If travelling from within the UK, we recommend you are insured for personal sickness & injury cancellation prior to the trip and any travel insurance you feel appropriate to your needs.

If travelling from further afield, USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand etc it is best to research insurance locally to cover all your travel and medical needs.

WALKING ROUTE NOTES

All routes are undertaken entirely at your own risk. Ensure you are properly equipped with sufficient food, suitable footwear and wind and waterproof outdoor clothing. Take the relevant Map with you and familiarise yourself with the use of a compass and bring this with you at all times. Please leave brief details of your intended route and anticipated return time with your accommodation hosts. Please confirm with them that you have returned safely at the end of your day.

All route timings are calculated on the time we would expect a reasonably fit person to complete the route with minimal stops. Please allow longer if you intend to relax and enjoy the views to the full, or if you feel your fitness levels are lower.

These route notes are intended as helpful guidance only. You should be experienced in reading maps and using a compass prior to undertaking any walks in upland areas or remote coastal locations. You must use your judgment in order to decide whether the suggested daily route is within your capabilities, giving careful consideration to the wind and weather conditions on the day. You are solely responsible for your own safety and well‐being in wilderness areas and you must undertake all walks at your own risk.

While we will do everything we possibly can to assist you in the unfortunate event of any accident or mishap, Wilderness England will accept no responsibility for any accident or injury sustained during the course of your self‐guided walking holiday.

FURTHER INFORMATION
If you require any assistance or support prior to or during your trip then please contact our office on the details below:
E‐Mail: [email protected]
Tel: +44(0)1768 721 210.

The Wilderness England out-of-office hours numbers are +44 (0)7482 170 401 (please always call this number in the
first instance) and +44 (0)7766 794640
Please only call these numbers for things that cannot wait until the office is open again.

Important Contact Numbers Read More
Wilderness England Office | 9:00am – 5:30pm

UK: +44 (0)1768 721 210
US: 833 574 0690

Out of Office Hours | 5:30pm – 9:00am

+44 (0)7482 170 401

Emergency Services

999

Important Additional Information Read More
Terms & Conditions Read More

Please see our booking terms here.

Get in Touch

Tel: +44 (0) 1768 721210

Email Jane

Accommodation

The Volunteer Inn

St. Catharine's Square | Chipping Campden | Gloucestershire |
GL55 6DY | England
Phone: +44 (0)1386 840 688
Web: thevolunteerinn.net

The Vine B&B

Stanton | Nr Broadway |
WR12 7NE | Phone: +44 (0)1386 584250
Web: cotswoldsriding.co.uk

The Royal George Hotel

Off B4070 Birdlip | Gloucester | Gloucestershire |
GL4 8JH | England
Phone: +44 (0)1452 862506
Web: greenekinginns.co.uk/hotels/gloucestershire

Stonehouse Court Hotel

Bristol Road | Stonehouse, Stroud | Gloucestershire |
GL10 3RA | England
Phone: +44 (0)1453 794950
Web: stonehousecourt.co.uk

The Swan Hotel

16 Market Street | Wotton-under-Edge | Gloucestershire |
GL12 7AE | England
Phone: +44 (0) 1453 843004
Web: swanhotelwotton.com

The Compass Inn

Tormarton | Near Badminton |
GL9 1JB | England
Phone: +44 (0)1454 218242
Web: compass-inn.co.uk

The Queensberry Hotel

4 - 7 Russell St | Bath |
BA1 2QF | England
Phone: +44 (0)1225 447928
Web: thequeensberry.co.uk

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Virtuoso

Zwann- Self Guided – The Cotswolds Way

Thursday 12th September – Monday 23rd September 2024