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      Wilderness Walking

      Highlights of the Cotswolds

      4 reviews

      Next Trip: 20th - 26th Apr 2024 Duration: 7 Days / 6 Nights

      From £2,195 View Prices & Dates

      Travel Planning & Advice

      Book With Confidence

      Trip created by Harvey Downard
      View Harvey's Profile

      Region: The Cotswolds
      Trip Type: Wilderness Walking
      Accommodation: Deluxe
      Max Group Size: 8
      Confirmed: When 3 Traveller(s) Book
      Deposit From: £548.75 £548.75

      Grading:

      Carbon Footprint: 146kg ? What does this mean?
      Click here to find out about our carbon labelling project and what we're doing to be more sustainable.

      All you need to know about your trip, this essential document is a must for all adventures.

      Download Itinerary

      With a knowledgeable Wilderness guide, join us on a walking tour showcasing the enchanting nature of the Cotswolds.

      Cherished for its pastoral charm, this stunning region in southwest England encompasses lush river valleys, rolling green fields, wildflower meadows and villages of honey-coloured stone. Designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the landscape is also rich in history – peppered with ancient ruins, tumbling castles and intriguing archaeological sites.

      With a fantastic network of quiet rural lanes, leafy bridleways, and winding riverside trails, enjoy discovering the beautiful countryside on foot. Visit historic market towns, traditional local pubs and artisanal shops full of local produce. As the soft evening light slips below the hedgerows, unlace your hiking boots and relax in the warmth of English hospitality, enjoying fresh seasonal food and lovely company.

      Trip Highlights

      • Hike through the beautiful pastoral landscape, visiting old churches, haunted ruins and fascinating historical sites.
      • Explore pretty limestone villages full of classic Cotswold architecture and quintessential English charm.
      • Stay in stunning local accommodation, enjoying excellent cuisine and welcoming hospitality.

      Did you know?


      This trip can be booked as a private departure


      Learn more

      Day by Day Itinerary

      Day 1 – Blenheim Palace and Bibury

      Arrive at Oxford train station this morning and meet your Wilderness guide. A short drive north will take you out of the city and into the easterly folds of the Cotswolds. Visit the incredible Blenheim Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the birthplace and ancestral home of Sir Winston Churchill. After lunch, explore the peaceful grounds before visiting Churchill’s grave in the nearby village of Bladon. Travel to Bibury and visit Arlington Row – a stunning string of cottages built in 1380. This evening, settle into your lovely accommodation, your home for the next three nights. (L, D)

      Walk details: 3 km/2 miles | 20 m/65 ft ascent | approx. 1 hour

      Day 2 – The Windrush Valley

      Following a leisurely breakfast, enjoy a circular walk through the Windrush Valley. Begin by meandering through the pretty market town of Burford, looking out over sweeping arable fields and passing through the now deserted hamlet of Widford. Not much remains of the settlement now, apart from the tiny 13th-century St Oswald’s Church that sits quietly in a grassy meadow. Enjoy a packed lunch, listening to the skylarks and blackbirds, before returning to Burford. This evening, enjoy an aperitif in the beautiful gardens of your hotel and a delicious, locally sourced dinner. (B, L, D)

      Walk details: 13 km/8 miles | 165 m/540 ft ascent | approx. 5 – 6 hours

      Day 3 – Chedworth Roman Villa

      After a short, scenic drive, enjoy a walk through the picturesque countryside. Chat with your guide about the history of the area, arriving along the way at the remains of Chedworth Villa – one of the grandest Roman villas in Britain. Tucked beneath old trees, the peaceful tranquillity of the place is matched only by its exceptional insight into life during the Roman period in Britain. Enjoy some time exploring before continuing your ramble through the pastoral landscape. Back at the hotel later this afternoon, unlace your boots and take some time to relax. (B, L, D)

      Walk details: 7 km/4.5 miles | 215 m/705 ft ascent | approx. 4 hours

      Day 4 – Bourton-on-the-Water and the Slaughters

      This morning, enjoy visiting Bourton-on-the-Water, which is regularly voted one of the prettiest villages in England. Known for its five stone bridges that arch across the River Windrush, it’s an idyllic place to enjoy a morning meander. After a coffee, transfer to Lower Slaughter and enjoy a circular walk that ribbons its way through the countryside. Along with wonderful views, the trail passes a 16th-century Dovecote and through Upper Slaughter, another quintessential Cotswold village home to a beautiful parish church. After the walk, transfer to your award-winning hotel nestled in the charming town of Chipping Camden. (B, L, D)

      Walk details: 14 km/8.5 miles | 240 m/790 ft ascent | approx. 5 – 6 hours

      Day 5 – Snowshill

      As sunshine pools in through the open window, enjoy breakfast before heading out with your guide for another cracker of a walk. From Snowshill Manor, stroll through the village and enjoy the sweeping views of the valley towards Stanton. Joining the Cotswolds Way, wander through a quiet woodland, an old orchard and across a babbling brook before returning to the Manor to enjoy piping hot tea and light, springy sponge. Back at your hotel later this afternoon, enjoy a free evening. Either dine at the hotel or stroll down the pretty high street and pop into one of the local restaurants. (B, L)

      Walk details: 12.5 km/7.5 miles | 330 m/1,080 ft ascent | approx. 5 – 6 hours

      Day 6 – The Cotswolds Way and Stratford-Upon-Avon

      After breakfast, spend the morning hiking a beautiful section of the Cotswold Way – a 164km trail that stretches from the old wool merchants’ town of Chipping Camden to the Roman city of Bath. Along the way, pause to ascend the famous gothic folly Broadway Tower, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. After lunch, visit Stratford-upon-Avon, the birthplace and burial ground of William Shakespeare. Enjoy a guided tour of the Royal Shakespeare Company, learning about those who have played a pivotal role in its unique and fascinating history. Enjoy dinner at a historic country inn this evening which brims with traditional charm. (B, L, D)

      Walk details: 6 km/3.5 miles | 220 m/720 ft ascent | approx. 3 hours

      Day 7 – Hiking in Daylesford and Depart

      Transfer to Daylesford this morning and head out on a lovely circular walk. Starting from an organic farm shop, meander past the walled gardens and the stables before strolling along fields fringed with wildflowers and down to the Jacobean manor house of Chastleton. Meander through a leafy avenue of trees and emerge in Adlestrop – a village connected to the well-loved English novelist Jane Austen. On your return, visit the ancient site of the Rollright Stones and learn about the history and folklore of the King’s Men and the Whispering Knights. Return to Oxford Railway Station this afternoon, where your trip will conclude. (B, L)

      Walk details: 8 km/5 miles | 120 m/390 ft ascent | approx. 4 hours

      Download Itinerary

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      Wilderness Walking
      Highlights of the Cotswolds

      To download a PDF copy of our Trip Itinerary, containing full details about this holiday, please complete the form below:

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      Trip Dates & Prices

      Trip Dates for 2024AvailabilityStatusPriceBook
      20th Apr - 26th Apr 20247 place(s) leftUNCONFIRMED£2,195Book Now
      15th Jun - 21st Jun 20248 place(s) leftUNCONFIRMED£2,195Book Now
      17th Aug - 23rd Aug 20248 place(s) leftUNCONFIRMED£2,195Book Now
      7th Sep - 13th Sep 20248 place(s) leftUNCONFIRMED£2,195Book Now

      Trip Details

      Expand All
      Accommodation Read More

      This walking holiday is based in two welcoming and quality accommodations. The first is a handsome former coaching inn in the village of Bibury, often known as the prettiest village in England. The second is a charming regency townhouse hotel in Chipping Campden with a spa and hydrotherapy pool, so don’t forget your swimwear!

      Accommodation is a choice of double or twin rooms with ensuite facilities.

      Single Rooms

      There is no single person supplement charged to solo travellers however, you will be required to share a room with another person of the same sex. If you wish to reserve a double room for single occupancy, a supplement of £650 is charged.

      Due to the nature of the accommodations we use, single supplements are limited and are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.

      Meals Read More

      All meals are included in this trip from lunch on day 1 to lunch on day 7, except for dinner on day 5. Included dinners are two courses as standard.

      Great food is paramount on all Wilderness England trips, and we will enjoy excellent regional cooking.

      Your guide will have an evening off during this trip where they do not eat with the group. They will recommend dinner options that evening and help you make any necessary reservations.

      Inclusions Read More
      • 6 nights accommodation in 4 star hotels/inns on a B&B basis.
      • All meals during the trip as stated in the itinerary (Meals included indicated as B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner)
      • The services of an experienced and knowledgeable guide / driver throughout
      • All transport throughout the trip starting and finishing in Oxford.
      Trip Grading Read More

      Green Graded 1-3

      Green graded walking holidays are suitable for active travellers who are reasonably fit and enjoy moderate hikes. We walk at a comfortable pace and you can expect to be out for 5-6 hours a day. The terrain will be mostly good paths and hill trails but these can still be muddy and rough in places. Some hikes may involve an ascent up to a max of approx 1,500 feet / 450m. Distances will be typically 8-10km. Daily hike details are available in the itinerary.

      Travel Read More

      You will be met by your Wilderness England Guide at Oxford Railway Station at 9:30am on Day 1 of your trip.

      The trip will conclude at Oxford Railway Station at 4:30pm on the final day.

      Photo Gallery

      Make This Trip Private

      Fancy this trip just for your group? Get together with family and friends spend quality time exploring wild places. A private trip allows you to benefit from all the features of the group departure, including hand-picked accommodation and expert local guides but with the advantage of the flexibility to tailor the days to your group. Make the trip more or less challenging depending on your experience or choose to add in some optional extras like castle or distillery visits depending on your interests. The price of a private trip will depend on the number of travellers in your group. Let us know your prefered departure date and we'll take care of the rest.

      Speak to an Expert

      View Profile
      Bridget Brown

      Our friendly office team hail from across the world but share a passion for the outdoor and wild spaces of England. We are committed to providing you with the best customer service and are more than happy to chat through options and provide help and advice. Get in touch to find your perfect adventure.

      Ask Bridget a Question

      Meet Your Guide

      Mark Joyce
      7th Sep - 13th Sep 2024

      View guides for all departures

      Difficulty Grades Explained

      Green Graded Walking Holidays
      Green graded walking holidays are suitable for active travellers who are reasonably fit and enjoy moderate hikes. We walk at a comfortable pace and you can expect to be out for 5-6 hours a day. The terrain will be mostly good paths and hill trails but these can still be muddy and rough in places. Some hikes may involve an ascent up to a max of approx 1,500 feet / 450m. Distances will be typically 8-10km but there may be the odd slightly longer day. Daily hike details are available in the itinerary.

      Compare walking grades

      Trip Reviews

      Rated 5.00 out of 5 based on 4 review(s) of Wilderness Walking – Highlights of the Cotswolds

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      Every client receives a feedback survey when they return from their guided, self guided or tailor made holiday with us. Once completed the review is published on our website just as soon as our database updates. The little touches and details are important to us and where issues are raised we make positive changes to our trips to improve your experience.

      That’s why we read each of our client’s reviews and although we don’t respond to all of them, if it’s glowing feedback then we get the satisfaction of helping to make your holidays truly memorable.

      LS

      Lynn Siegel

      Reviewed on 11/09/2023

      Age: 50 - 60
      Country: USA
      Trip Date: 27/08/2023
      Trips Taken: 1

      The Bottom Line

      The Bottom Line

      I enjoyed it and am likely to book a walking trip with Wilderness Scotland in the next year.

      Show More
      WD

      Wendy Duggleby

      Reviewed on 04/09/2023

      Age: 60 - 70
      Country: United Kingdom
      Trip Date: 27/08/2023
      Trips Taken: 2

      The Bottom Line

      The Bottom Line

      Well organised, with an excellent standard of food and accommodation. A good balance of walking and sightseeing. Our guide Philippe was a good walk leader and was also keen to share knowledge of the local history and wildlife.

      Show More
      SB

      Sarah Bowman

      Reviewed on 04/09/2023

      Age: 70 - 80
      Country: England
      Trip Date: 27/08/2023
      Trips Taken: 3

      The Bottom Line

      The Bottom Line

      Great trip

      Show More

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