Hi, I am in the early stages of planning a self guided slow hike/walk through a section of the Cotswolds, staying in pubs each night. I am relying on train from London to Moreton in the Marsh beginning ( and ending ) my walk there.
I want to allow enough time each day to explore points of interest and looking for some thoughts from experienced Cotswold walkers.
Day 1: arrive in Moreton on the Marsh to Chipping Campden.
Day 2 Chipping Campden to Winchcombe
Day 3 Winchcombe to Guiting Power.
Day 4 Guiting Power to Lower Slaughter
Day 5 Lower Slaughter back to Moreton in the Marsh - maybe staying the night here or heading back to London..
My timing is flexible so if there are ‘must stay’ villages or sites to see I can adapt my plans.
I am looking to do this in late Spring 2025 and expect I will need to book accommodation and eating places nearer the time.
Love some recommendations of books or blogs to read so I can make the most of my time.
Thank you
Posted by
Stratford-Upon-Avon
10 posts
Sounds like a lovely Itinerary! Spring is a great time to tour this region!
Posted by
Southern California
434 posts
The Cotswolds are a lovely place to hike. Do you know which trails you plan to use? I ask because your first day seems fairly ambitious compared to the other days--around 18 miles if you're using the Cotswold Way. That is the trail we hiked last July with friends, so I'm not aware if there's a shorter walking route between the two towns. My advice would be to buy a book or books that cover the trail(s) you plan to hike so you can get an idea of places you'll see on the trail, elevation gains/losses, etc. I used Trekking the Cotswold Way by Knife Edge. Besides describing the trail it listed places that had restaurants, grocery stores, and bus stops. My husband had Walking the Cotswold Way by Cicerone. There are undoubtedly trekking/hiking guides for the other trails in the Cotswolds as well.
We did not book any restaurants in advance, but we did book our accommodations for mid-July by the end of October/early November. However we needed two rooms at each stop, so it might be easier for you as a solo hiker. Better to work on it early and get the room you want than to wait too long and not be able to find accommodation.
Have a wonderful time!