Discover the Cotswold Way with iBestTravel
Lush green fields dancing with wildflowers, bordered by hedgerows and ancient stone walls. Horses that come right up and nuzzle your face and neck. Butterflies hovering around the gardens of postcard-perfect cottages.
This idyllic setting can be found on the Cotswold Way, a 102-mile trail that winds through the stunning Cotswold Hills in England, from Chipping Camden in the north to the Georgian city of Bath in the south. This long-distance trail, which has been popular since the 1970s and became an official National Trail in 2007, offers a rejuvenating outdoor experience.
In May this year, I decided to walk the Way after being laid off from my tech job. I had always wanted to do a long walk, and after considering options in various countries, the Cotswold Way seemed like the perfect length with favorable early summer weather. Moreover, it isn’t terribly difficult compared to other National Trails.
Most importantly, I wanted to immerse myself in nature—feeling the sun on my face and the dirt beneath my feet, a refreshing change from my sedentary work life. Consequently, I concluded my hike feeling inspired, reinvigorated, and more present in the moment and in my body.
Walking the Way, Your Way
There is no “right” way to walk the Cotswold Way. During my time on the trail, I encountered various walkers—from those who tackled five-mile sections daily to others attempting the entire 100 miles in a single, long weekend. The trail accommodates many types of outdoor enthusiasts, including locals on horseback, mountain bikers, and dog walkers.
Beginning at Chipping Camden and concluding in front of Bath’s impressive Abbey, this trail offers a dramatic finale. After choosing your direction, you can decide how many days to dedicate to the journey. For those eager to maximize mileage, the trail can be completed within five to seven days. However, for those wishing to explore the charming towns and delightful parks along the way, you might consider planning for eight or nine days, possibly including a rest day.
Personally, I walked the complete trail in seven days, averaging about 15 miles each day, with one memorable day exceeding 18 miles due to some wrong turns. I utilized a tour company for assistance with logistics, including B&B bookings, dining recommendations, and luggage transportation. This allowed me to carry only a day pack, simplifying my hiking experience.
For those inclined towards self-sufficiency, there are opportunities to camp along the trail. While wild camping is prohibited, asking local farmers for permission to pitch a tent in their fields may yield positive results.
What’s the Trail Like?
The trail is a delight, especially in late spring when the Cotswolds remain relatively untouched by large-scale agriculture. Hikers can enjoy a stunning patchwork of fields—including sheep-grazing lands, wheat and rapeseed farms, and meadows filled with wildflowers. Expect to wind through ancient hill forts and charming towns constructed from the distinctive peachy Cotswold limestone.
This diverse landscape means navigating numerous turns, guided by yellow acorn stickers on guideposts. Be mindful, as it is easy to miss a marker and stray off the trail. Embracing moments of getting lost adds to the adventure. Utilizing both digital maps and a traditional paper map can be incredibly helpful when your GPS fails.
Although the Cotswold Way is considered one of the easier long-distance trails in England, it comes with its challenges. Expect to climb significant elevations daily, which rewards you with breathtaking views of the stunning countryside. On clear days, the sights stretch across the Severn Valley and into Wales.
What to Bring on the Cotswold Way
While I assumed I could easily resupply in the towns along the trail, I was mistaken. Most of these towns feature limited amenities, especially in the northern sections. Additionally, my timing coincided with a bank holiday weekend, resulting in many shops being closed when I urgently needed a pharmacy.
Therefore, careful planning is advisable. Rely on your B&B hosts who can provide valuable insights about the upcoming sections of the trail. I ensured I carried ample water in my day pack, as opportunities to refill can be scarce, particularly in the afternoons.
Bringing hiking poles proved invaluable for the steep climbs and provided greater balance on uneven surfaces. My ankles certainly benefited from their support given the rocky paths and slopes encountered along the trail.
Lastly, beware of nettles present along the route, which can be quite bothersome. Wearing pants and carrying anti-itch cream can help alleviate discomfort from contact with these plants.
Despite these challenges, the beauty of the Cotswold Way is unparalleled. If you’re in search of an unforgettable walk through the scenic English countryside, the Cotswold Way is an exceptional choice.
