cotswold_walks

Cotswold Gardens

info@cotswoldwalks.com (Cotswold Walks) — Thu, 11 Jan 2024 16:51:53 GMT

(Photo above: Painswick Rococo Garden)

It’s easy to imagine Cotswold gardens are all roses and hollyhocks set against the backdrop of honey-coloured houses and gently rolling hills. In fact, while there are many beautiful cottage garden plots, the range is far more diverse. Eastern-inspired, contemporary and even a Royal garden, the Cotswolds illustrates every type of English gardening style.

It’s long been a place that attracts gardeners. Leading designers Chris Beardshaw and the late Rosemary Verey have made their home here, there are hundreds of amateur garden clubs, and more than 100 gardens opening for National Garden Scheme charity.

The gardens have been shaped by the passions of their creators, not least the plant-collectors of the Cotswolds. Robert Holford started what is today the National Arboretum at Westonbirt, home to five national tree collections – Gloucestershire has 33 National Plant Collections in total. Plant-hunter Henry John Elwes of Colesbourne Park discovered Galanthus elwesii, the parent for countless snowdrop varieties, while Ernest Wilson from Chipping Campden was responsible for introducing more than 2,000 species to the UK, including the kiwi fruit, mahonias and jasmines.

It's resulted in gardens that are inspiring to visit. For beautifully planted borders set against a strong framework of hedges and walls, there’s little to rival the Arts and Crafts design of Lawrence Johnston’s Hidcote Manor Garden and Rodmarton Manor, home of the Biddulph family. Both have the ‘garden rooms’ and attention to detail so indicative of the style.

Then there’s the startling discovering of the minarets and Paradise garden of Sezincote deep in the Cotswold countryside. The house, a mix of Hindu and Muslim architecture, is said to have inspired the design of the Brighton pavilion.

Nearby, it’s the Far East that has influenced the creation of Batsford Arboretum, which has a Japanese tea house, and sculptures set among its trees.

Meanwhile, Rockcliffe combines classic English borders brimming with herbaceous perennials with idiosyncratic topiary.

Many of the Cotswolds’ gardens are important historically – several are registered by Heritage England as being significant. Among them are Painswick Rococo Garden, one of the few survivors of a 18 ^th century garden style that embodied frivolity and fun with eye-catching follies, while Rousham House is one of the few gardens designed by William Kent, a pioneer of the ‘New English Style of Landscape’, that is largely unaltered.

Yet, the Cotswolds does modern too notably at Broughton Grange where Tom Stuart-Smith’s parterre mimics the leaf structure of beech, oak and ash leaves.

And Cotswold gardeners are still embracing new ways of growing. King Charles famously ran Highgrove along organic lines long before it was mainstream and created a wildflower meadow there. Today, gardens such as Asthall Manor are putting nature at the forefront of what they do with wilder areas set against more formal planting and a ‘no dig’ kitchen garden.

It’s clear Cotswold gardens really can’t be pigeonholed.

Sources: England’s Gardens A Modern History by Stephen Parker.

If you would like to learn more about Cotswold gardens and our tour, sign up to our webinar; there are still spaces available!

2023: Three Decades of Cotswold Walks

info@cotswoldwalks.com (Cotswold Walks) — Tue, 21 Nov 2023 11:09:27 GMT

(Photo: Chad Williams / Creative Visual Design - www.creativevisualdesign.com)

30 years of Cotswold walking and as my wife might say…you haven’t got very far; you're still here!

Seriously though, I have been involved in the business since 2007 and 16 years later I am still as passionate about the area as ever. I always knew when we took over the business that we wanted to concentrate on this area alone, as it was so special in terms of the walking, history, food and attractions.

Since the end of Covid, running a service business has become more challenging with the number of accommodations decreasing as people retire and the rise of AirBnB/holiday lets, less food outlets and services in general as people switched away from hospitality to a more normal, regular lifestyle mix. I can’t blame them as we regularly see a turnover of staff throughout the establishments we deal with. One thing that remains constant is the drive to provide the best possible experience and our customer service to showcase the best the area has to offer.

We have made a few changes during the year. We have expanded our team in the office and moved to bigger premises so the former home office has been gratefully occupied by my wife and her creative talents; more on that next month. We are merging Hikes and Bikes with Cotswold Walks to simplify our product offering and maintaining the self-guided and guided cycling which we plan to expand on in the future. We are looking to offer new tours and guided options for next year so please keep up to date in the next edition of our newsletter.

This year has been extremely busy and an increase on 2022 and 2024 is looking the same. We are so grateful for the support shown to us by our existing customers and their generous feedback that provides so many referrals for future trips. All this is made possible by our amazing team here at Cotswold Walks, Adam and Barbara (now married), Jo in accounts and Julie who has recently joined us over the summer to help with the office administration.

So much of what we do for clients is customised and that can only be done when you have local knowledge and are actually based in the Cotswolds. I often come across clients from other walking companies and they are normally lost or complaining about their route notes as being out of date. We are able to update our route notes whenever needed and the use of our digital walking app, to allow clients to track their position as they walk, makes things even more walker friendly.

We have hosted many larger walking groups this year and this adds to the complexity of requests and possible solutions. We have had clients that have never left the USA before some coming to the Cotswolds which seems like a real adventure in its truest sense. We appreciate we only have one chance to get things right due to specialising in only one area of England but we are confident that added pressure is more than compensated for by the amount of positive feedback we get from clients. We have listed some of their testimonials below and hope you will join us in the future to see for yourself.

My main piece of advice would be to book early if you are intending on visiting the Cotswolds in 2024. The term is “Revenge Travel” to get back to being active after Covid robbed us not just of loved ones, but precious time as well. There are walks to suit all abilities and days off to pursue cultural highlights as well.

May I wish all those celebrating Thanksgiving in the coming days a joyful time spent with loved ones and wish everyone a peaceful and safe holiday season for the weeks ahead.

Walk in Focus - The Cotswold Ring

We have been lucky enough to discover the creative talents of Chad Williams and Carey Wodehouse from the USA and they were keen to walk in the Cotswolds following on from previous adventures in the UK. They have kindly allowed us to share their self-guided walking experience by producing 7 humorous and inspiring videos to capture their time with us. We hope you enjoy and please let us have your feedback on the YouTube channel and feel free to subscribe as we will be releasing a new video each week starting from today to take you through the holiday season and into the New Year!

Photos and Testimonials

The Cotswolds through our clients' eyes

“We all thoroughly enjoyed the hike. My daughter and granddaughter both described it as "the trip of a lifetime" and I think the word we would all use to describe it would be "memorable". The places we stayed at, the events of each day, what we talked about, how many sheep we saw, will still be vivid memories years from now. A hiking vacation allows you to truly immerse yourself in the area and the slowness and meditative nature of each day allow you to truly see and take in the environment you are walking through. That along with the fact that we had plenty of time to have real conversations with each other made our hike a memorable holiday.” Elizabeth I., The Cotswold Way, August 2023

“The Cotswold way 10 day walk was absolutely amazing. We enjoyed every day, even with a couple of rainy ones! The division of daily walking lengths was very manageable and enabled us to take our time and enjoy the walk and still be at our destination in time to have a look around the destination villages. The scenery was spectacular and the terrain (hills) provided just enough of a challenge. People we met, both locals and fellow travellers, were friendly and welcoming. We did encounter some fellow travellers who had NOT booked with you and they were encountering problems with too much mileage each day (apparently unable to secure accommodations) and taxis not showing up ... so I told them...make sure you book with COTSWOLD WALKS the next time!” Lynda A., The Cotswold Way, September 2023

“Overall, the walking was more strenuous than we had anticipated, but we are really proud we finished it. I came to think of our two weeks as a combination of a walking meditation and couple’s therapy. To have the time to be together, to continue a conversation over hours - even days - without the usual interruptions; to take turns "lifting" each other when the going was challenging; to learn more about each other (even after being married for 35 years!), and also ourselves individually; to take on a physical challenge and see it through; to slow down enough to really get to know a place in all its beauty - all of this comes from a trip like this, and I really can't recommend it highly enough. I could go on and on - let me know if you want me to! But to sum up: thank you for a memorable trip that went smoothly and has filled our hearts for years to come.” Victoria C., The Cotswold Way, August 2023

“We had a wonderful experience. This is our 2nd year walking with Cotswold Walks and it certainly won't be the last.“ William H., Bath and Wiltshire, October 2023

“We loved our walk with your company. We wish we could use Cotswold Walks all over the world.” Sarah Kate H., Oxford to Bath, June 2023

Rick and Lissie’s Cotswold Adventure - The Best of the Cotswolds

Wed, 09 Nov 2022 10:31:12 GMT

(The above photo is for illustrative purposes only and is not of Rick and Lissie)

Parts 1 and 2

Wednesday, September 21

After a taxi ride to the train station in Oxford, we took the Worcester Line to Moreton-in-Marsh (pop. 4,480), one of the many hyphenated town names in the Cotswolds, where town founders took a delight in adding geography to their residences.

After a brief walk with our luggage from the train station to the hotel, we dumped our bags and took to the streets, in hopes of exploring the local shops. Alas, shops were closed at 5:00 PM and we could only comfort ourselves with a pint of ale and nibblies at the White Hart Royal Hotel, known to have housed guests since the 1600s (including Charles I while on military manoeuvres), with parts of the structure dating back to the 1400s.

We enjoyed this hotel bar so much we decided to also have dinner there a bit later. We found the food excellent (best Chicken Supreme ever!), although a party of eight (work colleagues) seated next to us after a bonding experience made for noisy neighbours. We were forced to treat ourselves to a delicious toffee sundae for consolation. Our toffee scarcity in Canada seems irresponsible.

We spent some time inspecting the ancient fireplace, ceiling beams, and noting some of the well-executed architectural modifications that have occurred over the years.

After our meal, we retired to our very comfortable lodgings at the Redesdale Arms and watched a few minutes of Doc Martin before slumber took us away.

Thursday, September 22

A breakfast of porridge, breads and yogurt braced us for the first walk (7.5 miles) to Stow-on-the-Wold, and we then prepared our bags for their 9:00 AM pick-up that takes them to our next hotel. Yes, our luggage has wheels… no, we are not rolling our luggage all across the countryside. A efficient delivery service will advance our bags as we traverse the Cotswold hills and vales. Life as it should be…

Departing our hotel, we ambled through a few quaint Moreton-in-Marsh shops before commencing our first walk around 10:30. A late start, but Lissie saw some items that she admired and wanted to visit a couple shops. Not a strong shopper myself, I opted to investigate some online sites regarding local geography and flora in hopes I might recognize something, anything, that might impress a fellow traveler that we had done more background research than was actually true.

After some purchases in the local shops, our first walk started out somewhat ingloriously as Rick became turned around and we proceeded out of the Moreton-in-Marsh village at the butt end. After uttering rather incoherent statements about the sun coming up on the wrong side of the ocean, Rick was convinced by a nice postman (and the evil eye from Lissie) that we should retreat from town at the other end to start our adventure. It was time to start using the handy phone app that will guide us on the way…

The outside air was still cool (130), but our trek in the warm sunshine was lovely amid many leafy hedgerows and neat pathways, passing by the heritage homes (above) constructed of local stone. We saw sheep, cows and horses aplenty, and enough berries every mile to fill a swimming pool, although this would not be their best use. The lanes were absolutely covered with red berries, yellow berries, blueberries… but mostly blackberries or “brambles”. I snacked on a few handfuls until it occurred to me that toilet facilities in the countryside were few and far between.

A little after noon, we came to our first village, Longborough (pop. 471) and stopped in the village’s only pub (Coach and Horses at L) to enjoy sandwiches on the best-ever bread (R – roast beef; E – brie and chutney), topped off by a treacle tart with salted caramel ice cream. Treacle is the residue left behind after the processing of sugar and the dessert tasted mostly like pecan pie filling.

Pretty darn good; just ask Harry Potter (his favourite)!

Our journey continued after lunch, with one more stop in Broadwell for coffee and beer before arriving at our destination of Stow-on-the-Wold (a “wold” is like a moor, hilly and uncultivated). Our lodgings at the Old Stocks Inn were exquisite and we felt deservedly pampered. Lissie took to the streets shortly after arrival and Rick made mental journal notes while he tested the bed for comfort. It passed with high recommendations.

Dinner was taken at the King’s Arms (L) just after dark, a delightfully dodgy and noisy pub seating about thirty at full capacity. I ordered a Fish and Chips and Lissie built a salad with her favourites as the pub slowly filled with people. Even with tight quarters, some Brits still bring in their dogs, many who are a healthy size and create a significant tripping hazard. Pets are greatly loved in the UK; most establishments seem to have an official cat (think of Larry at 10 Downing Street), and some patrons apparently include the dog in their party when making dinner reservations.

After dinner, some discussion ensued about a dessert option… Rick asked the waitress, with considerable delicacy, to describe the “steamed spotted dick” – a menu specialty. The response was that this traditional English dessert is a spongy cake, nicknamed “dick” in some localities as it includes raisins (the “spots”) and is typically served with custard. Tempting as it was, we passed and chose the pear and apricot crumble. We were disappointed not at all.

After our walk back to the Old Stocks Inn, we lounged about our expansive room, reading and listening to the classical music station that was playing through the sound system when we first entered. There’s something about the sound of a symphony work playing in the background that makes one feel somewhat more respectable and important than is actually the case. The feeling may not last, but it is refreshing at times.

In these elegant surroundings, the music fit the context as we showered or soaked our tired limbs. Luxurious linens were cherished for scant seconds before unconsciousness took over. Day 1 complete; a raging success.

* Many thanks to Kenric (Rick) Edwards and Elisabeth (Lissie) de Snaijer for allowing us to share excerpts from their journal. *

The New Normal

Mon, 01 Nov 2021 18:36:43 GMT

It has been such a dramatic time over the last 18 months, so I felt I couldn’t start this blog with the usual happy go lucky, “The 5 Best Pubs to Visit” or “The 5 Best Walks in the Cotswolds”. This blog is called the Cotswold Ramble, a name we chose because it has a wonderful double meaning. A ramble can be either a walk for pleasure in the countryside or alternatively it can mean to talk or write at length, in a confused or inconsequential way, so bear with me as I do just that.

We constantly hear the phrase the ‘new normal’, and I am beginning to hate hearing those words, as I am sure there are many new phrases and terms which we all loathe hearing the sound of since the start of the pandemic. Whatever this ‘new normal’ actually is, I think these last few months have taught us that we should savour every moment, and to really connect with those around us. Throughout these difficult times my wife and I and our dogs, have treasured our precious time spent walking in the Cotswolds. I think it goes without saying that a walking holiday is indeed the perfect antidote to the stresses and strains of life, except, we’ve been unable to offer our wonderful trips to overseas travellers until recently, due to all the restrictions on domestic and international travel.

As most of our stress levels have reached new heights and our mental well-being has been tested in ways we didn’t even realise, I don’t expect any of us are the same people since the emergence of Covid-19. We’ve all had to adapt, conform or rebel to suit our collective and individual needs. Society has become more polarized with those desperate to receive the vaccination and others, who for one reason or another, do not. I know that my mental health has suffered, both due to financial and health worries, but I remind myself that it is a scant sacrifice to what many are going through, and still do. Perhaps, those first few weeks were a novelty, if it can even be described in such terms, for those not yet touched by the loss of a loved one, then the reality of the situation hit home. Businesses like ours were devastated and people lost not only their livelihoods but family and friends. As we begin to emerge from this unprecedented situation and start to socialize and travel again, we all have our stories to tell.

As the owner of Cotswold Walks, I feel our greatest asset is undoubtedly our wonderful staff, Barbara, Adam and Jo, and the thought of losing them was the most worrying prospect during this time. Without them Cotswold Walks would not be the company that it is and I am sure our clients both past and present would agree. We are thankful to be able to support them until the new walking season begins in 2022, and are also very grateful to many clients who have chosen to support us by keeping funds on deposit for a future trip. By the way, 2022 and 2023 look to be very busy with bookings already, so hurry up and book if you haven’t done so already.

On a positive note, I would like to focus on what has been happening in the last few months. We have seen a re-emergence of inbound tourism; mainly from the USA and Canada and have also benefitted from clients here in the UK, who have been incredibly lucky with some perfect September and October weather.

Going forward, many things will have changed forever, for example, protocols around health, social distancing and Covid testing. It is something we must learn to live with if we wish to maintain the right to travel. I mentioned earlier that there will be those who do not wish to be vaccinated and those that are happy to do so, but whatever your choice the world needs us to carry on and to support each other as best we know how. Travel is an important part of a caring and understanding society and sharing the vaccine worldwide is a vital part of helping to make that happen safely.

I recently had the wonderful opportunity to plan and guide a tour for a family who came over from Dallas, USA. Their original tour, booked with another company called ‘Backroads’ had been cancelled, so we worked together, adopting the best bits of their original itinerary and improving on others, so that they could have their eagerly awaited holiday. Not only did we manage to save them over 50% on the original tour cost from Backroads, but they also had a fantastic time, below is a transcript of their comments.

The initial step in planning any holiday, is for us to gain your trust, as many people will find us through the internet, and it sometimes takes a small leap of faith to engage with a company you have only read about on the pages of a website. With that said, we are only a phone call away and even if we are in a different time zone, we do pick up the phone outside of office hours.

Perhaps we all need to take a leap of faith going forward and trust in building new relationships with local travel partners to really connect. We live in the Cotswolds and are here to assist when it matters most. Here is the testimony from the client;

Our family spent a delightful week in mid-August 2021 with Andrew Guppy (the owner of Cotswolds Walks) as he expertly guided us through the beautiful northern Cotswolds. Andrew has an extensive knowledge of the area and a wide circle of friends and acquaintances that included the drivers that transported us and many of the people we met in shops and restaurants. He also has such a congenial and fun personality that he soon felt like a new friend of our family rather than a guide. Andrew did a fantastic job of adapting our walks to best fit our family's interests and skills. For example, when we asked questions about plants we saw along the way, Andrew came prepared the next day with books to help identify the plants. He also gave us some reference books about the history of the area when we told him that was an area of particular interest. Although it would be possible to do the walks on a self-guided basis, we found that in many places where routes cross or converge, it is difficult to determine where to go. We were so glad to have an experienced guide leading us so we did not have to deal with that complexity. We have done many guided trips around the world and our trip with Andrew ranks as one of the best experiences we have had. Having Andrew lead us through the Cotswolds allowed us to traverse the beautiful countryside worry free, learn more about the history of the area than we would have on our own and meet and interact with the local residents in a way that is not typically possible as a tourist. We highly recommend Cotswold Walks.

-Dick Covington, Dallas, Texas USA

Organising this tour illustrates just how much more expensive American tour operators can be and even if you think it is a unique experience many of the services are outsourced locally, so why not book direct and have 2 holidays for the price of one!

On a final note, we sadly lost our much loved dog, Indie, on the 1st May. She often went out on our guided walks and her friendly character was much loved by many of our clients. Needless to say we missed her company and no walk was the same without her.

However, in July we welcomed Clover, a Whippet Collie cross, who is 6 months old this week. She is funny and vocal and loves her Frisbee.

I hope to see many of you next year when I am out on the trail, (often recognized by our distinctive and unique route booklet) I will always say hello. Whatever you plan for months and years ahead, stay safe and happy travels.

Your Walk, Your Way

Mon, 15 Feb 2021 10:01:39 GMT

Our first blog post of 2021 is intended to reflect the fact that wellbeing – both mental and physical – has been at the forefront of people’s attention this past year. As we have a passion for walking, and it is widely recognised for its tremendous benefits as a form of exercise and a slower pace of travel, we wanted to share our tips and thoughts with those who might not have considered a self-guided walking tour before.

Plan the route

Planning is key to ensure that your walk turns out to be just as relaxing and enjoyable as you envisioned. For a self-guided walking tour in the Cotswolds, you can rely on us to do all the planning for you , with your walking abilities, interests, and preferences in mind. For example, a novice walker will enjoy our Best of the Cotswolds walk with an average of 6-8 miles a day, but a more experienced walker will find our Cotswold tour with longer walking days just as enjoyable. We are always more than happy to customise any of our walking tours or plan a completely tailor-made walk to match your requirements.

If you are planning a walk for yourself , we recommend the following:

Avoid getting caught in the dark by estimating how long your hike is going to take. Factor in the walking time, breaks, sightseeing, and time spent wandering off track. It is important to know your abilities and limitations, so be honest with yourself.

The Cotswolds is safe for the many solo walkers we have each year and we hire out mobile phones for peace of mind for anyone wishing to stay in touch with us.

Walking time

For most people, walking 2 miles an hour is a relaxed, enjoyable pace. It is safe to calculate with this, even if you are less experienced. If you are not sure about your pace, it is better to plan a shorter hike and underestimate your walking abilities than having to push yourself.

Breaks

You will need to stop from time to time to hydrate, to stretch a little or grab a snack. It is good practice to allow some time for these ‘pit stops’, but they do not necessarily need to be planned in as much detail. The lunch break is the one you should give some thought to. For example, the Cotswolds is filled with beautiful picnic spots, great pubs, and wonderful tearooms, and if you’re walking with us, you will have a handy booklet with our recommendations. If your route takes you through a more remote area, you can make a handy picnic blanket from your rain jacket and pick your spot for your locally sourced feast.

Sightseeing

You will find plenty to see on the way, and we recommend checking your route in advance to determine where you want to spend more time. Think about your interests and plan accordingly. For example, we can never resist going into a beautiful church, an interesting museum, a majestic manor house, or a charming garden.

If you tend to wander off the trail like we do, you should allow plenty of time for unplanned activities such as climbing up to viewpoints to admire the vistas, chatting to the locals, or standing on a river bank to watch the world flow by.

Getting lost

Finding the right path and doing a bit of detective work is part of the adventure. Nowadays, technology makes it easy to navigate.

If you are walking with us, our comprehensive route notes, walking app, and detailed maps should take the stress out of finding your way. You can track your position as you walk and hopefully never get lost! The app works off-line so there is no data download. Bring a mobile charger to keep you topped up for all those amazing photos if nothing else.

Appropriate gear

When it comes to clothing, layers are generally a good idea, especially in the changeable, unpredictable weather in the UK. Try to avoid cotton or any material that hangs onto heat and sweat, making your garment heavy and rather unpleasant. A moisture wicking base layer has tremendous benefits on a long hike. Pack a spare one in your rucksack for a change of clothing at lunchtime to make you more comfortable. The same goes for a light weight waterproof/windproof jacket on the outside – of course it never rains but always handy.

Hiking boots are the most important part of the gear, although the mostly gentle terrain of the Cotswolds does not require the heaviest, sturdiest boots. A pair of comfortable hiking boots, preferably waterproof with good ankle support can go a long way. Wear them on the plane, (remember those?) and take them off in transit to safe weight and space in your luggage. If you are just starting out, taking your new boots on a long hike is a bad idea. Break them in with short walks – or get ready for blisters. A good way to avoid blisters is wearing two sets of socks – heavy duty hiking socks as the outer layer and light ones as base layer.

It is wise to invest in a comfortable backpack that won’t hurt your back even on a longer walk. Packing correctly is also important – think about what you need, and pack only the essentials. It is a bit like packing your suitcase for a flight. Try to keep your backpack light so that carrying it does not become a nuisance after half an hour into the tour.

Water and food

Staying hydrated is important, even more so during the summer months. Make sure you always have at least 1.5-2 litres of water with you and preferably bring a refillable water bottle. Think ahead and check if you will be able to refill your bottle on the way and take more with you if not.

If you prefer to stop at a pub or tearoom for lunch, make sure there is a place (checking opening hours in advance) where you can do so. Standing in front of a closed pub after half a day of hiking is a bitter disappointment, especially with another half to go. Pretty much all of the villages have a convenience store or deli for picnic supplies for an alfresco lunch or your host maybe able to offer a packed lunch.

We always pack ‘emergency snacks’. If you or your walking partner can suddenly transform their mindset from ‘happy-go-lucky’ into ‘the-end-is-nigh’ when hungry, you will appreciate the importance of emergency snacks. A banana or a granola bar can work wonders.

Prepare for the unexpected

It is impossible to be prepared for everything, but there are a few things that are worth having in your backpack, without the risk of overpacking. Plasters, tissues, and clean water can come in handy in case of small injuries like bruises or cuts. If you are prone to blisters, there are plasters specifically designed to soothe and protect your skin (Compeed/second skin).

A flashlight or a headlamp does not take up much space but it can be very useful in case of an unexpected delay in completing your walk or the walk back from the pub after dinner, especially during the winter months when it gets dark sooner.

Finally, the most important thing you should never leave home without is common sense. If something unexpected happens, remain calm, think about what you need and what you have access to. And remember, if you are on Cotswold Walks tour, we are always just a phone call away.

We know that setting off on a longer walk or walking holiday can be daunting at first, but hopefully our tips will encourage you to try walking more to get fresh air and good exercise while you experience an area in depth.

There appears to be light at the end of the tunnel, and we wish everyone good health and a year full of opportunities to see and experience the places you have long wished to visit or return to.

We look forward to welcoming you on one of our self-guided or guided walking holidays and create memories to last a lifetime.

Our guide to walking the Cotswold Way National Trail

Tue, 30 Jun 2020 11:59:55 GMT

If you are an enthusiast of the English countryside, or simply enjoy walking and being outdoors, the Cotswold Way will not disappoint. Following this National Trail for 102 miles is one of the best ways to immerse yourself in the beauty of this corner of the world. The trail takes you through fields, up and down emerald green hills, in and out of picturesque villages with honey-coloured cottages and through ancient woodlands.

Read on for some of our top tips on how to make the most of your Cotswold Way tour!

The itinerary – how long will it take to walk all the way to Bath?

Anybody with a reasonable level of fitness can walk 102 miles, even if the distance sounds a little bit daunting at first. People from all walks of life and of all ages can complete this wonderful trail.

Walking the Cotswold Way in 6 or 7 days requires a higher level of fitness. For more time to rest between each section, we recommend spreading out your walking holiday to 9-10 days. This will also give you a chance to spend more time exploring the villages and towns you walk through.

Whether you choose the leisurely 10 days, or the more strenuous 6 days, the sense of achievement upon reaching Bath is guaranteed!

Detours and extras

As if the wonderful views and the picture-perfect villages and towns on the trail were not enough, there are some lovely additions that will make your tour even more memorable.

Cheltenham

The trail offers spectacular views over Cheltenham, but if you wish to take a closer look and explore the town, it is well worth the detour. There is something for everyone in this stunning spa town, from fine art at The Wilson museum or magnificent architecture and natural beauty in Pittville Park, to fine dining, pubs and bars with local cider and ales. Cheltenham is probably most well-known for its racecourse that is home to The Cheltenham Festival, held annually in March and regarded as the most prestigious jump racing event of the year.

Painswick

If you wish to include a rest day, we recommend spending some time in the town of Painswick, located halfway along the Cotswold Way. With the wonderful churchyard and spire of St. Mary’s Church, fascinating galleries and unique shops, the extraordinary Painswick Rococo Gardens, and excellent cafés, pubs, and restaurants, it is not surprising that Painswick is also known as the Queen of the Cotswolds.

Dyrham Park

Dyrham Park is only a short detour from the Cotswold Way. Explore this extraordinary baroque mansion house and ancient parkland where deer roam freely. Enjoying a light lunch in Dyrham Park's Tearooms is also a wonderful way to seek shelter on a rainy day and warm up with a lovely cup of tea.

Bath

A designated World Heritage Site, Bath is brimming with history. There is so much to see and do in the ancient city of Bath that it is well worth spending an extra night or two here. Admire stunning architecture such as the Royal Crescent and Circus, visit the Jane Austen Museum, see the stunning Roman Baths, or relax in the Thermae Bath Spa.

Prepare for the (un)expected

Preparing for the unpredictable English weather should be on top of your list in order to make your walking holiday as carefree as you imagined. Waterproof clothing and sun protection are absolute essentials, as you may experience the full extent to which weather can be changeable in England. If you come prepared, this can also be one of the highlights of the walk: the chance to see the many faces of the Cotswolds as the views change with the weather.

Prepare for the walk and gradually build up your stamina. Try walking regularly, ideally the same distance that you will be walking on average per day on the Cotswold Way. Bring a reliable pair of walking shoes/boots that provide ankle support, pack some sports cream, and do some gentle stretching as you stop for water breaks. We think that one of the most strenuous (and most beautiful) sections is the walk from Painswick to Dursley. If you wish to avoid walking up Cam Long Down after a long day's walk, then stop in King’s Stanley for overnight.

As the Cotswold Way crosses pastures and farmlands, you may encounter herds of cattle. Even though these animals generally do not mean any harm and are just curious, it is best to err on the safe side, especially if they are in the field with their calves. If you notice that cattle are getting a bit too nosy, our advice would be to avoid panicking, walk around the herd quietly, giving them a wide berth, and don’t get between cows and their calves.

Sampling local produce and traditional dishes

Breakfast

Breakfast is probably the most important meal of the day for walkers. A nutritious and flavoursome breakfast will set you up for a good day of walking. Whether you are staying in small B&B's or hotels, there is always plenty to choose from. You can expect options such as fruit, cereal and yogurt, porridge, or cooked breakfast options, such as traditional full English breakfast, or even eggs Florentine.

Lunch

Our top tip: avoid overindulging at lunchtime, otherwise it will probably be quite difficult to continue walking for the rest of the day. It may be best to just enjoy some light refreshments for lunch. Some accommodations offer packed lunches, and there are plenty of shops, cafés, pubs, and tea rooms on the way. You may find that snacks like fruit, nuts and seeds, biscuits, healthy bars and water will be plenty to keep you going during the day.

Evening meal

The options are virtually endless: pubs, restaurants, and even some B&B’s offer excellent dinner and home-made meals to comfort the weary walker.

Highlights

The Cotswold Way features some of the most famous landmarks of the Cotswolds; it leads through picturesque villages, passes the iconic Broadway Tower and climbs up to Cleeve Hill, the highest point in the Cotswolds. You will also discover hidden gems, such as the lush vegetation of the ancient Penn Wood, with the beautiful ferns and the smell of wild garlic, or the wooden box in Dyrham Wood, filled with messages written by walkers from around the world. It is very interesting to read the stories!

One of the most memorable highlights is seeing Bath for the first time from the surrounding hills in the distance, and then reaching Bath Abbey, overjoyed by the sense of achievement and the beauty of the city.

Six of the most beautiful gardens in the Cotswolds

Mon, 15 Jun 2020 11:59:55 GMT

If you are a gardening enthusiast in need of inspiration, look no further. The Cotswolds is blessed with an abundance of extraordinary gardens where you can admire rare plants, marvel at unique buildings and design ideas, enjoy spectacular views of the English countryside, indulge in local delicacies, and discover fascinating stories about the gardens and their past and present owners.

Hidcote Manor Gardens

A trip to Hidcote Manor Gardens is a must-do for every gardening enthusiast. This Arts and Crafts-style garden will inspire visitors with its secret outdoor ‘rooms’ full of surprises, magnificent vistas, and extraordinary plants collected by the brilliant American horticulturist, Major Lawrence Johnston. Hidcote comprises of a series of smaller gardens within a garden, all full of intriguing design elements, such as rare shrubs and trees, borders bursting with colour, extraordinary water features, and wildflower meadows. After wandering around the gardens, the cosy café is the perfect place to relax and take in the atmosphere of the magnificent gardens.

Kiftsgate Court Gardens

Kiftsgate Court Gardens, a stone’s throw away from Hidcote, is one of the hidden treasures of the Cotswolds. The garden that became famous for its spectacular roses is the result of the hard work of three generations of women. The garden was created on a steep slope that offers dramatic views to the Malvern Hills and beyond. Like Hidcote, Kiftsgate is also a series of interconnecting gardens with distinct characters, resulting in the perfect combination of the traditional and the modern. A lovely tearoom is also located on the grounds of Kiftsgate Court Gardens, which makes this hidden gem a true delight for all the senses.

Painswick Rococo Garden

Painswick Rococo Garden was designed in the 1740s, as a place for holding indulgent garden parties. The garden, with extraordinary views and intriguing buildings, is now the country's only complete rococo garden. There is plenty to explore and enjoy in the garden all year round: admire the millions of snowdrops in winter and enjoy a cup of tea in the cosy café, watch as spring brings an abundance of colour, find your way around the maze and take in the scent of jasmine and lavender in the summer, and savour traditional freshly pressed apple juice in the autumn. Besides the Rococo Garden, the beautiful town of Painswick, known as the Queen of the Cotswolds, has plenty to offer. From iconic landmarks such as the wonderful churchyard and spire of St. Mary’s Church, fascinating galleries and shops, to excellent cafés, pubs, and restaurants, there is something for everyone. Located halfway along the Cotswold Way, Painswick is also a fantastic base for walkers.

Highgrove Royal Gardens

Visit Highgrove Royal Gardens near Tetbury for a guided tour of HRH Prince of Wales very own private garden, renowned as one of the most inspiring and innovative in the United Kingdom. Highgrove is the private residence of TRH The Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall. Over the last 40 years His Royal Highness has created an extraordinary and very personal garden with the help of some of the UK’s top garden designers, including Rosemary Verey and Julian and Isabel Bannerman. Highlights of Highgrove include the magnificent Wildflower Meadow, The Sundial garden, The Stumpery, Cottage Garden and Thyme Walk.

Sudeley Castle and Gardens

Sudeley Castle is a family home with award-winning gardens and royal connections dating back a thousand years. Visitors will walk in the footsteps of kings and queens, including Katherine Parr, last wife of King Henry VIII, who lived and died in the castle. The Castle itself houses a collection of extraordinary works of art, and the spectacular gardens burst into a breathtaking display of colour from spring to autumn, with hundreds of varieties of roses. The Castle and gardens are well worth a visit in winter, too, when the buildings and footpaths turn into a winter wonderland as part of the annual festive event, the Spectacle of Light.

Snowshill Manor and Garden

Inside the 16th-century Snowshill Manor you will find an eclectic and unusual collection of treasures, all bearing witness to the extraordinary life of its eccentric 20th-century owner, Charles Paget Wade and his passion for craftsmanship and design. Just like the Manor, the surrounding Arts and Crafts-style garden falls nothing short of extraordinary and awe-inspiring. Its fascinating design elements range from terraces and ponds to a model village. Located on the hillside, the garden has spectacular views of the surrounding area. When visiting Snowshill Manor, it is well worth a short detour to explore Snowshill village, famous for its exceptional unspoilt beauty, also known as the filming location of the snowy scenes of the Bridget Jones movie.

Join us on our Garden Tour to discover the hidden gems of the Cotswolds

Spectacular gardens, breathtaking scenery, honey coloured cottages, roses over the door, cream teas, picnics, pub lunches and a tipple of something local...

Let our expert local guides take you on a tour to majestic Cotswold gardens such as Kiftsgate Court Gardens and take a sneak peek at traditional English country gardens, such as the wonderful private gardens of Chipping Campden as they open their doors to visitors for a weekend only. Get a glimpse of these hidden gems and talk to the owners about their passion for gardening!

Some of the best short walks in the Cotswolds

Fri, 12 Jun 2020 11:59:55 GMT

The need to travel to wonderful faraway destinations and discover hidden gems along the way may feel more acute than ever before. Many of us may even feel a renewed sense of appreciation for a slower pace of travel: reconnecting with nature, engaging in interesting conversations with locals, enjoying the freedom to explore an unfamiliar town or city, sampling delicious local produce, and simply being present in the moment and exploring an area in depth.

We hope this collection of some of the best walks in the Cotswolds will inspire you and help to cure your wanderlust until it is safe to travel again.

#1. Broadway to Chipping Campden – 6 miles

Breathtaking views

P art of our Best of the Cotswolds Tour

Often referred to as the 'Jewel of the Cotswolds', Broadway is perfectly located to be the base from which to enjoy some of the finest walking in the Cotswolds. The village also boasts a rich artistic heritage, and is brimming with fine eateries, inns, magnificent houses, and quirky independent shops located on the pretty High Street, the 'broad way'. You can reach the iconic market town of Chipping Campden from Broadway on foot in about 4 hours. With its charming honey-coloured stone buildings and iconic landmarks such as the 400-year-old Market Hall and the magnificent wool church, St James’s Church, Chipping Campden boasts plenty of history and character. The town is also known as the start or end of the Cotswold Way, depending on which direction you walk the 102-mile National Trail. The highlights of the walk from Broadway to Chipping Campden include Broadway Tower and Dover’s Hill, both offering stunning views across emerald green countryside dotted with honey-coloured buildings.

#2. Selsley to Dursley – 7 miles

Breathtaking views

P art of our Cotswold Way Tour

This 7-mile walk, a section of the Cotswold Way National Trail, is another excellent hike that offers fantastic views over the Cotswolds countryside. The route involves frequent ascents and descents as it takes the walker up to some of the most impressive vantage points on the Cotswolds escarpment. The starting point of the walk, the village of Selsley is home to a Victorian church that was influential in the establishment of the Arts and Crafts movement. The stained glass windows of the All Saints’ Church were designed by William Morris’s firm. Highlights of the walk to Dursley include Selsley Common, a biological and geological Site of Special Scientific Interest; Coaley Peak with its spectacular views of the Severn Valley and picture-perfect picnic site in the middle of a wildflower meadow; Penn Wood with lush greenery, an impressive display of bluebells in the spring and trees that are over 200 years old; and Cam Long Down with stunning 360° views. Upon reaching Dursley, another fine Cotswolds market town built on wool trade, the weary walker will have a wide array of cafés and pubs to choose from to quench their thirst.

#3. Lower Slaughter and Bourton-on-the-Water circular walk – 10 miles

Natural beauty

P art of our Luxury and Tailor-made Walks

This circular walk follows the Windrush and Wardens Way and features some of the best walking in the Cotswolds. Upper and Lower Slaughter are considered to be among the prettiest villages in the area. The word “slaughter” comes from the Old English word “slohtre” that means “slough or muddy place”. The River Eye, a small tributary to the River Windrush, flows through both villages. This walk follows the Windrush for a while as it meanders through the gorgeous Cotswold countryside. The trail leads through charming woodlands and unspoiled water meadows. The picturesque village of Naunton is reached halfway through the walk. As this village is off the beaten track, it is largely untouched by tourism, and is delightfully quiet. Naunton’s pub, the Black Horse Inn welcomes walkers, and is the perfect place to enjoy a leisurely pub lunch. One of the highlights of the walk is visiting Bourton-on-the-Water, the “Venice of the Cotswolds”. The village is known for its pretty stone bridges that cross the River Windrush. The surrounding area, rich in wildflower meadows, is undoubtedly a walkers’ paradise, but there are also plenty of unique shops, pubs, and restaurants to enjoy in Bourton.

#4. Painswick to Haresfield Beacon – 4 miles

Natural beauty

P art of our Cotswold Way Tour

The beautiful town of Painswick, known as the Queen of the Cotswolds, is well worth a visit. From iconic landmarks such as the wonderful churchyard and spire of St. Mary’s Church, fascinating galleries and shops, the extraordinary Painswick Rococo Gardens, to excellent cafés, pubs, and restaurants, there is something for everyone. Located halfway along the Cotswold Way, Painswick is also a fantastic base for walkers. There are plenty of wonderful footpaths to choose from, including walking routes inspired by Laurie Lee, author of Cider with Rosie. The walk to Haresfield Beacon leads through woodlands and grasslands, high on the Cotswolds escarpment. Highlights of the walk include archeological monuments, spring flowers in Standish Wood, and spectacular views across the Severn estuary, Gloucester, the Malvern Hills, the Forest of Dean and the Brecon Beacons. Whilst you are in the area, it is also well worth a hike to the top of Painswick Beacon to enjoy the wonderful panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape. The mellow honey-coloured stone of the buildings in Painswick was quarried from Painswick Beacon.

#5. Bibury to Coln St Aldwyns – 6 miles

Iconic locations

P art of our Oxford to Bath Tour

It is easy to see why Bibury was described by William Morris as the most beautiful village in England. Located on the banks of River Coln, the village is truly picturesque. Bibury is best known for Arlington Row, one of the most iconic and most photographed Cotswold scenes. The buildings of Arlington Row were built in the 14th century as a wool store and were converted into weavers' cottages in the late 17th century. The buildings of Arlington Row are now owned by the National Trust, but they are not open to the public, as there are residents living in the cottages. The leisurely walk from Bibury to the nearby village of Coln St Aldwyns is exceptionally pretty, leading through beautiful natural scenery of woods and water meadows. Upon reaching Coln St Aldwyns, walkers can enjoy a lovely meal at the New Inn or a light lunch at the fabulous community-run village café.

#6. Lacock to Castle Combe – 11 miles

Iconic locations

P art of our Bath and Wiltshire Tour

The quintessentially English villages of Lacock and Castle Combe are both strong contenders for the title of prettiest village in England. Both villages are packed with history and character; highlights include the impressive 13th century Lacock Abbey and the Fox Talbot Museum and gallery in Lacock, along with the 14th century Market Cross and St Andrew’s Church in Castle Combe. Both villages have featured regularly as filming locations, most famous appearances include Downton Abbey, the BBC’s Pride and Prejudice, Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince, Steven Spielberg's War Horse, Stardust, and The Wolfman. The walk itself from Lacock to Castle Combe falls nothing short of impressive, either, as the route leads through the picturesque By Brook Valley.