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The Ultimate 2 to 3 Days in The Cotswolds Itinerary

Last Updated on January 17, 2024

by Kate Daniel

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cotswolds 2 day trip

One of the United Kingdom’s Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the Cotswolds is an Elysian jewel in the crown of England’s scenic countryside. Famous for its enchanting villages, idyllic rolling hills, and ancient buildings made of honey-colored limestone, it is one of the Isles’ most beloved treasures. If you are planning 2 to 3 days in the Cotswolds, use this Cotswolds itinerary to experience all the best this incredible region has to offer. 

Table of Contents

How Many Days in the Cotswolds?

Although many of its constituents are small, exploring the Cotswolds region encompasses five counties and several towns and villages. So, as for how many days to spend in the Cotswolds, you could easily spend a week or more in the area without getting bored. Especially if you’d like to walk the Cotswold Way, a walking trail that winds itself through the entire region.

However, if you don’t have that luxury, it is quite possible to get a feel for the region and experience several of its highlights in a weekend break. Many people even visit via day trips from London or Birmingham, but this doesn’t give you much time to enjoy one of the area’s finest assets: its serene ambience.

2 days in the Cotswolds is preferable, although three days in the Cotswolds is better yet if you can manage.

The Cotswold town of Stow-on-the-Wold

Getting To & Around the Cotswolds

Located between Bristol and Oxford and just south of Birmingham, the Cotswolds region spans nearly 800 square miles. Like most of the U.K., it is connected via bus and train routes to nearby hubs, including London. 

As its name denotes, the Cotswolds Line provides a straight shot between Oxford and Hereford and is linked to London Paddington. You can also take the Golden Valley Line that connects Swindon and Gloucester/Cheltenham Spa.

Yet another option is to ride a coach. The major operators, Oxford Bus Company and Oxford Tube offer direct routes from London, Birmingham, and Leeds.  You can view the latest train and bus schedules here.

However, as many villages and small towns are sparsely populated, service is limited within the region. While you can rely solely on public transport, consider hiring a car, especially if you have just two or three days in the Cotswolds.

To reduce the cost and your carbon footprint, you can always hire a car once you’ve arrived via bus or train. You can browse car rental options here.

If you embark on your Cotswolds road trip from London via car, you will take the M4, M5, and M40 motorways and travel about two-and-a-half hours. If you haven’t yet been and have some spare time, you can stop at Stonehenge to the south of Oxford to the north along the way. 

The M5 motorway also connects the Cotswolds with Birmingham, a route that takes about an hour and a half by car. From Bristol , you will spend just over an hour on the M5. 

Arlington Row in Bibury

2 to 3-Day Cotswolds Itinerary

Whether you’re slipping out of the city for a weekend countryside retreat or visiting the Cotswolds as part of a complete England or U.K. tour, this itinerary will guide you through an unforgettable two-to-three-day adventure. 

Day 1 – Cheltenham, Hidcote Manor & Broadway

Cheltenham .

The first stop on many is Cheltenham. This 18th-century spa town is a convenient gateway to the region, with direct train links to London, Birmingham, and Bristol and public transit connections to several of the region’s villages.

It also has plenty to offer on its own, including a quiet, quaint High Street, the Wilson Museum and Art Gallery, and Sanford Parks Lido. There are also numerous festivals throughout the year, including the enormously popular horse racing event, the Cheltenham Festival. 

Hidcote Manor Gardens 

The Hidcote Manor Gardens are the epitome of an Arts and Crafts Garden, a formal style characterized by its melding of purpose with beauty.

One of the nation’s most stunning gardens, Hidcote features different outdoor “rooms,” each with distinct character, as well as colorful plants, exotic trees, topiary, fountains, and ponds. 

Broadway Tower & Village 

Cap off your first day in the Cotswolds with a stop in Broadway, a village whose name comes from its unusually broad High Street lined with numerous shops. 

From the town center, walk to Broadway Tower, a small Gothic castle built in 1799 that served as William Morris’ countryside retreat. The second-highest point in the Cotswolds, it can be seen from the Welsh border on a clear day and is one of the best spots to catch the sunset. 

Afterwards, grab dinner at The Broadway Indian Restaurant before packing it in for the day. 

If you’ve still got time for some exploration, you could also opt to head to the nearby villages of Chipping Campden, Snowshill and Moreton-in-Marsh.

Broadway Tower in the Cotswolds

Day 2 – Bourton-on-the-Water, Stow-on-the-Wold & More

Bourton-on-the-water .

Start the second day of your Cotswolds road trip in one of the region’s most beloved locales. Bourton-on-the-Water, known as the ‘Venice of the Cotswolds,’ is routinely voted one of England’s prettiest villages. Meander along the quaint streets and idyllic stone bridges crossing the River Windrush and streams.

Then, visit The Model Village, a 1/9th stone scale model for an alternate bird’s-eye view of the town. If you have time, stop by Greystones Nature Reserve, home to wildflower meadows, Iron Age ramparts and a replica Iron Age roundhouse, and an organic farm.

Lower & Upper Slaughter 

Don’t be put off by their sinister-sounding names. The twin villages’ monikers come from the Old English word for a muddy or boggy place, “slough,” and belie their quaint characters.

Park in Lower Slaughter and visit Copse Hill Road. Voted the “most romantic street in Britain” in a poll for Google Street View, the road features traditional Cotswold architecture, gorgeous views, secluded getaways, fine restaurants and hotels, and a charming ambience.

Then, walk along the shallow Eye stream past rows of limestone cottages to the Old Mill. Although the mill is no longer functional, there has been a mill in this location since the Domesday Book was published in 1086. The converted building, with its original water wheel, is now a museum and craft shop with a café. 

Next, visit Upper Slaughter, about a mile’s walk away past idyllic pastureland. The Eyford House has replaced a now-ruined Norman castle as the village’s focal point.

The manor house dates back to the 17th century and features Baroque details and a picturesque landscape. It is said the poet John Milton stayed here and was inspired to write Paradise Lost. 

Upper Slaughter village

Stow-on-the-Wold 

Stow-on-the-Wold is another of the Cotswolds’ most beloved and enchanting villages. Looking at photos of the Cotswolds, you will more than likely come upon the Great Yew in the yard of the medieval St. Edward’s Church.

Its iconic door looks like a portal to another realm, so much so it is thought to have inspired Tolkien’s Doors of Durin in the Lord of the Rings. 

The village is also home to several boutiques and antiquarians and England’s oldest inn,  The Porch House , which has served shelter and sustenance for over 11 centuries. 

Daylesford Organic 

Next, head a few miles east to Daylesford Organic, a trendy, award-winning farm shop and café specializing in organic, sustainable local foods, including produce grown on-site, as well as an in-house butcher and creamery.

Check the calendar for upcoming events, like cooking and floristry classes. Before you go, grab a bite in the café or pick up some picnic supplies like salads, cheeses, and veggie tarts.

Winchcombe 

Off the beaten path of the usual tourist route, Winchcombe is an excellent spot to escape the crowds in summer. It’s also an antique-lovers paradise, with numerous shops selling vintage and antique wares. This includes Winchcombe Antiques Centre, with its basement tearoom serving afternoon tea, warm beverages and cakes. 

Winchcombe is also a haven for walkers and history buffs. If you’re one or both, take a hike from the village to Belas Knap, an ancient Neolithic Burial Ground, and Hailes Abbey, the remnants of a 13-century Cistercian Monastery.

Another must-visit is Sudeley Castle & Gardens. This 15th-century fortress, with its 10 gorgeous gardens, stands on the site of a former 12th-century castle and boasts connections to the late royals Anne Boleyn and Katherine Parr, two of Henry VIII’s wives. 

Sudeley Castle & Gardens

Day 3 – Hop Between Iconic Cotswolds Villages

Castle combe .

Located at the Southern edge of the Cotswolds, an hour south of Cheltenham by car, Castle Combe is a bit of a trek but well worthwhile.

One of the country’s most picturesque villages, it is also one of the Cotswolds’ most famous, having starred in films like Doctor Thorne , Doctor Dolittle , Robin Hood , Stardust , War Horse , and Poirot . 

Check out St. Andrew’s Church, initially erected in the 13th century with later additions and restorations. Then, for the perfect Insta-shot, stroll down from Market Place toward the river, where you’ll find the village’s iconic bridge.

If the weather is nice and you’re keen on a hike, consider taking the footpath trail from Market Place. Extending 5.5 miles, it connects the village with serene woodland, providing stunning views along the way. 

Afterwards, stop by the Old Rectory Tea Room for fresh-baked scones before heading to the next stop. 

Castle Combe

About 45 minutes north of Castle Combe is Stroud, a former industrial capital set against the stunning backdrop of the Five Valleys. 

While you can still visit some of the town’s former mills, it’s now better known as a creative haven with a bohemian atmosphere and eclectic medley of independent cafes, cosy pubs, galleries, and antique shops. Stroud is also home to one of England’s most famous farmers’ markets.

If visiting on a Saturday morning, this is the perfect place to stock up on fresh, locally made eats for a picnic lunch before stopping by the Museum in the Park and strolling along the Cotswold Canals. 

Painswick 

Next up on your three days in the Cotswolds itinerary is Painswick, just a short 11-minute drive north from Stroud. Dubbed “The Queen of the Cotswolds,” this historic town was recently featured in the BBC’s The Casual Vacancy by J.K. Rowling. 

Stroll along the picturesque streets, including the deceptively named New Street, built in the 15th century, and the Church of St. Mary, built between the 14th and 16th centuries, with its yard of 99 yew trees. It’s rumored that every time a 100th is planted, it dies.

Next, pay a visit to the 18th-century Painswick Rococo Garden, the only one of its kind in the country. 

Burford 

Next, head about 45 minutes east to Burford, once the site of a fortified ford during the early Middle Ages and later the center of the medieval wool trade. Deemed the southern gateway to the Cotswolds, this beautiful town on the river Windrush remains a crossroads.

High Street offers rows of independent shops, teashops, and cafes to explore with its aesthetically pleasing architecture and quaint character.

Burford’s High Street is also home to England’s oldest pharmacy, which opened its doors in 1734, and the Tolsey Museum, which highlights the town’s history. 

Walk to the top of High Street and take in the view of the rows of centuries-old buildings sweeping down to the River Windrush, straddled by an impressive three-arched medieval bridge.

Stone Cottages in Burford 

Bibury 

Bibury is one of the region’s most stunning villages in the Cotswolds, coined “the most beautiful village in England” by William Morris.

Once a humble mill town, it’s now also one of its most famous, featured in films like Stardust and Bridget Jones’ Diary and attracting droves of tourists every year. If you’re visiting in summer, I strongly recommend arriving early (e.g., before 10 a.m.) or coming later in the day to avoid the crowds.

Take a stroll along Arlington Row on Awkward Hill, a picturesque lane of 17th-century weaver’s cottages so treasured and emblematic it’s featured on U.K. passports. Afterwards, venture a little further from the center to explore country roads and get a taste of local life.

Cirencester 

Cirencester, a beautiful market town, is called the Capital of the Cotswolds. In the Roman era, it was Britain’s second-largest city behind London. In the 6th century, however, the Saxons destroyed and rebuilt it.

Fortunately, in the medieval era, the town came into its own once more finding prosperity as a major wool hub. Today, the small municipality with its quintessential Cotswold architecture and ancient remnants is the Cotswolds’ largest town.

Must-see attractions include the Corinium Museum with Roman, Norman, and Saxon artefacts and the Parish of St. John Baptist. 

Historic Cirencester

Where to Stay in the Cotswolds

The Lamb Inn – This idyllic pub located in the village of Bourton-on-the-Water is the perfect place to stay in the Cotswolds. Packed with charm, they have a range of comfortable and clean rooms available, a car park and a pub downstairs to eat and drink at.

The Fleece – If you’re looking for a great boutique hotel to stay at in the Cotswolds, this is a wonderful option located in the village of Witney – not too far from Oxford. They have a range of cosy and comfortable rooms on offer and a great breakfast available each morning.

The Porch House – Located in the village of Stow-on-the-Wold, this inn dates back to the 10th century and is the perfect place to stay if you’re looking for luxury in the Cotswolds. They have a number of beautiful rooms to choose from and lots of other amenities to make your stay fantastic.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Cotswolds hotels!

Typical Cotswolds cottage

Set against a backdrop of rolling hills and idyllic farmland, the golden-hued villages, and towns of the Cotswolds are like something out of a fairytale. Whether you have one day or plan to spend a weekend, use this Cotswolds itinerary to experience the very best of this incredible region. 

Are you planning a visit to the Cotswolds? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

cotswolds 2 day trip

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About Kate Daniel

Kate Daniel is a writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from Washington State, she is a slow traveller and digital nomad who loves exploring both her own backyard and far-flung destinations. When she isn't writing, she is most likely befriending stray cats or daydreaming about the next adventure.

Great article, very interesting and informative.

Very interesting information I am planning to go there in late October for a weekend but don’t know where to stay. It’s going to be a surprise trip for my daughter who loves nature, streams and long walks! I will be driving from London. Please help. Thank you

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Home » Europe » United Kingdom » 2 Days in the Cotswolds, England

2 Days in the Cotswolds, England

By Author Macca Sherifi

Posted on Last updated: February 19, 2024

This post contains product affiliate links. These are mainly on items/hotels/tours that I personally endorse & love. I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase, but at no extra cost to you.

cotswolds 2 day trip

Visiting the Cotswolds for a weekend break? Then here’s my itinerary for 2 days in the Cotswolds with the best things to do in the area!

2 days in the cotswolds

I’ve just come back from an amazing 2 days in the Cotswolds, one of my favourite places in England.

I’ve been to the Cotswolds a few times now, and every time I go back I fall in love with the place all over again.

From little villages with cosy tea rooms to stunning views of the English countryside wherever you look, there’s something for everyone in the Cotswolds.

When I’ve been to the Cotswolds in the past, I’ve stayed in places like the Lygon Arms in Broadway and Marsdon Manor in Cirencester, but this was a very different type of trip for me.

holidays in the cotswolds

Staying at the Caravan & Motorhome Club in Moreton-in-Marsh, I went on a bit of a campervan adventure exploring the surrounding area.

I actually really enjoyed our campsite as it was a 10-minute walk to the pubs and restaurants in Moreton-in-Marsh, so you couldn’t ask for a more convenient place.

It was also a completely different style of adventure for me. I’ve never done a campervan trip before, and even though this was only 2 days in the Cotswolds, it really gave me a taste to that infamous #VanLife.

So, if you’re looking for a Cotswolds driving itinerary with where to go and what to do then this is the blog post you for. From walking around Batsford Arboretum to marvelling at Broadway Tower, this is what you should get up to for the perfect weekend away.

Planning a trip to the Cotswolds? Then read my guides on what are the prettiest villages in the Cotswolds and all the best things to do in Tetbury . Also, you can check out the best holiday cottages in the Cotswolds too!

Driving from London to the Cotswolds

I always think that the Cotswolds is a lot further than it is, but it’s very easy visiting the Cotswolds for a weekend away.

We picked up our Adria Twin Supreme 640 campervan and drove approximately 2 hours from London the Cotswolds. There are a fair few motorhomes you can hire from here .

Following the A40/M40 from London, it was only about an hour and a half to Chipping Camden before we started seeing all the stone houses everywhere that the Cotswolds is famous for. That’s when you can start getting really excited for your weekend away!

london to the cotswolds

Once you get into the Cotswolds itself a lot of the roads become one-lane dual carriages so it becomes a bit slower.

Saying that, the whole point of my road trip was to drive around the Cotswolds and take it slowly, so I was happy to take in the beauty around me.

Once you get there, these are some of the best things to do in the Cotswolds. Tick a few of these off your list and you’re in for an amazing time!

A weekend in the Cotswolds, England

Moreton-in-marsh.

moreton in marsh, cotwolds

Moreton-in-Marsh is a small 13 th century market town in Gloucestershire. Rich in history, one of the best things about Moreton-in-Marsh is the market is still going on today. The local market runs every Tuesday with about 200 stalls, so if you’re around then it’s well worth visiting.

Like a lot of places in the Cotswolds, tea rooms are two a penny here. However, we were told that The Cotswolds Tearoom was the best for afternoon tea so we headed there. They had a very decadent gin & tonic cake which I devoured, but apparently the savoury scones are to die for, so if you’re looking for a different type of afternoon tea then I’d recommend that.

afternoon tea in the cotswolds

There’s also a really nice cheese shop next door called The Cotswolds Cheese Company . I always love picking up some local cheeses whenever I go somewhere new and its always great supporting local businesses too.

Even though there are loads of pubs and restaurants to choose from, we had dinner at the White Heart Royal Hotel on the high street. The hotel was once used by King Charles I as shelter during the English Civil War following the Battle of Marston Moor in 1644 so this place has history. A copy of the King’s unpaid bill is commemorated on a plaque within the entrance lobby so keep an eye out for that!

Inside the White Heart Royal Hotel there’s a really nice restaurant which is where we ate. Alternatively, if you’re just looked for a drink then there’s a really cosy bar with a log fire – perfect for a cold winter’s evening.

Batsford Arboretum and Garden Centre

batsford arboretum

One of the top things to do in Moreton-in-Marsh is to visit Batsford Arboretum . This place is a 56-acre arboretum that is an amazing place to spend a few hours walking around the grounds.

Batsford Arboretum is home to one of the largest private collections of trees and shrubs in the UK. One of the best times to visit is in late winter when the snowdrops, aconites and early flowering daffodils spring into life.

My highlight was the Japanese bridges though. There are a few dotted around the gardens and they bring a real tranquillity to the place. It almost felt like I was back in Japan again.

The Garden Terrace Café offers home-baked food prepared daily using locally-sourced food wherever possible and a fantastic array of cakes and pastries to tempt you too.

Tickets cost £8.95 for adults and £3.50 for children.

Batsford Arboretum is a short 5 minute drive from Moreton-in-Marsh so it’s easy seeing both of these places on your 2 days in the Cotswolds.

broadway cotswolds

Broadway is one of the most popular places to visit in the Cotswolds. When you come here yourself you’ll quickly see why.

For me, Broadway is what springs to mind when I think of the Cotswolds. On the main high street, wherever you look you’ll see the famous Cotswolds stone buildings.

Broadway is really small too. It’ll only take you 10 minutes to walking from one end of the high street to the other, but I like that too. Even though Broadway is small, it’s packed full of independent boutique shops, so I’d really recommend walking around and popping into a couple. One of them is The Cotswolds Distillery where they sell one of the best English gins.

the lygon arms, broadway

Broadway is also famous for The Lygon Arms , a luxury 4* hotel that dates all the way back to the 1300s.  The hotel is also dripping in 17 th century history too. This is the place where Oliver Cromwell stayed in the night before the Battles of Worcester in 1651, and kings have even plotted wars here. There aren’t many places around the country where you can stay in the same room as a king, but at The Lygon Arms you can.

With a huge dining hall that looks like the set of Game of Thrones but with gourmet food to go with it, The Lygon Arms is cosy, charming, and elegant too.

If you’re heading to Broadway, then check out this amazing guide to all the best things to do in Broadway . I would say you could easily spend a couple of days in Broadway itself, and there’s plenty of things to do!

Broadway Tower

broadway tower in the cotswolds

If you’ve only got 2 days in the Cotswolds then I’d really recommend visiting Broadway Tower . This place is straight out of a fairy-tale – you’d half expect to see Rapunzel at the top of the tower herself!

Broadway Tower is a minuscule 20-metre high castle and it looks so out of place. Even though it’s a tiny castle, you can actually climb to the top for some of the best views of the surrounding English countryside.

deer in the cotswolds

The best bit is if you don’t want to go inside the tower you can still walk around the grounds for free. Also, if you’re lucky you might be able to see some deer in the fields so keep you eyes peeled.

Tickets are cheap at £5 for adults and £3 for children. There’s a lovely little cafe and gift shop here too. All the pies are made locally so that gets my vote.

Stow-on-the-Wold

stow on the wold, cotswolds

I’d never visited Stow-on-the-Wold before but it’s another beautiful Cotswolds village. This is another small market town packed full of tea rooms, sweet shops and boutique stores.

The vast Market Square testifies to the town’s former importance. At one end stands the ancient cross, and at the other the town stocks, shaded between an old elm tree. Around the square the visitor is faced with an elegant array of Cotswold town houses and shops.

st edwards church, cotswolds

One of the places I was most interested in visiting was St. Edwards Church. At the side of the church there’s a door that’s photography gold. Either side of the door are two oak trees that have become a part of the church.

Apparently this is where J.R.R Tolkien got the inspiration for the Doors of Durin in Lord of the Rings, so as a mega fan I was so excited seeing this.

Blenheim Palace

blenheim palace

At the end of your 2 days in the Cotswolds, I’d recommend adding in one more stop to Blenheim Palace .

Blenheim Palace was one of the largest houses ever built in England at the beginning of the 18 th century. Today, it is an amazing place to send the morning or afternoon walking from room to room in this stately home or exploring the massive gardens.

One fact I love about is that this is the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill on the 30 November 1874. A regal palace for what was to become one of the most important figures in British history.

Blenheim Palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it also is an area of outstanding natural beauty. It’s rare to find a place so steeped in history so it’s well worth visiting on your Cotswolds itinerary.

One of my top travel tips is to try and get here late in the afternoon. Blenheim Palace can get very busy during peak times, so if you come later in the afternoon you’ll have a good chance of walking around the palace without too many other people there.

Tickets to Blenheim Palace cost £18.50 per person and gives you access to the whole grounds.

Staying in Moreton-in-Marsh

adria campervan

As I mentioned, I stayed at the Caravan & Motorhome Club in Moreton-in-Marsh . This is a great option for those with a motorhome or for people looking for a different type of holiday.

For me, the best thing about staying here was how easy it was walking into town. It’s genuinely a 10-minute walk which means it’s easy to eat out if you want to.

Our Adria campervan was really comfortable too, so it felt like our own private hotel just at a fraction of the cost of a hotel. Pitches only cost around £40 per night for two people in high season (around £35 per night in low season), so it’s really good value for money.

There’s also plenty to do on the site itself with a crazy golf course, 5-a-side football, boules and an amazing play area for the kids.

One thing to add. If you have your own motorhome or van, then it’s really important to make sure you’ve got the right insurance. If you need to check, you can find a range of cheap van insurance quotes to make sure you’re covered and at what level. You can thank me later on that one!

This post was in association with the Caravan & Motorhome Club promoting some of their top sites around the UK. As always, views are entirely my own and without bias.

Are you looking at spending a weekend in the Cotswolds ? If so, what are you looking forward to doing? Let me know in the comments below!

Like this post? Then make sure you Pin it for the future!

My Itinerary for 2 Days in the Cotswolds, England

About the Author

Macca Sherifi

Macca Sherifi is the founder of the multiple award-winning blogs An Adventurous World and the Great British Bucket List. Every month he inspires over 200,000 avid readers to travel the world.

View all posts

Wednesday 30th of September 2020

Love Bourton-on the-Water, especially at Xmas with the Xmas market And Xmas tree in the middle of the river

Macca Sherifi

Monday 4th of January 2021

Bourton-on-the-Water is one of my favourite places too. Hopefully can visit again at some point this year!

Peter Steve

Friday 7th of February 2020

I have been there to Cotswolds last summer, it was quite good place to visit.

Sunday 8th of March 2020

I love travelling around the Cotswolds! It's one of my fav places in England that's for sure!

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The Perfect Cotswolds Itinerary – A Fantastic 2 Days Cotswolds Road Trip

The Cotswolds is one of UK’s Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, stretching over six different counties. A few weekends ago I took advantage of the gorgeous weather and decided to visit the Cotswolds on an extended road trip, for the first time. This is how the Cotswolds itinerary (below) was born. It took me a while to compile everything into just one post, but I do hope you will find it helpful, and it gives you some useful ideas for when you plan your perfect trip to the Cotswolds by car.  And I highly recommend that you do go on a road trip around the Cotswolds, because the public transport is not that reliable. If you are visiting England, renting a car from the airport for a weekend won’t cost as much as you might think, and it is so worth it if you want to have independence and not rely on bus timetables. You can check for cheap car rentals on Holiday Extras . I always book my rental cars through them when I travel because they show all the costs upfront.

A road trip through the Cotswolds is the best way to explore this beautiful region at your own pace, enjoying cream teas at independent tea houses and fresh lunches, made with locally sourced ingredients, at family owned restaurants. Strolling around the Cotswolds couldn’t be more relaxing, with picture-perfect moments around every corner.

When you think about the Cotswolds, honey-coloured limestone houses lined up on narrow streets, surrounded by rolling hills, come to mind. But the Cotswolds is so much more than this. In this Cotswolds itinerary I will show you how to experience the most beautiful villages in a local way, exploring off the beaten path locations, see the best preserved churches in England, supporting small businesses by eating and drinking in ancient pubs, and much more.

Are you ready? Let’s go on a road trip to the Cotswolds!

Where to Stay When You Visit the Cotswolds

There are so many places to stay in the Cotswolds, from beautiful B&Bs in small stone houses to big, luxurious manors with spas, which do come at a price though.

As I travelled to the Cotswolds on a budget, I decided to stay in the nearby town of Gloucester, which is ideally located between the North and the South of the Cotswolds. I booked the Ibis Hotel for £76/2 nights, which included parking. This also gave me the opportunity to explore Gloucester on the Friday, after my drive from London.

You can check out the reviews of Ibis Gloucester on Tripadvisor , or book directly on Booking.com

A Perfect Cotswolds Itinerary

In this Cotswolds itinerary I have gathered together a list of all the villages I visited, in perfect order, to explore by car. Some of the villages get very crowded, especially during the weekend, so you need to visit them first thing in the morning, even if it means driving a bit out of your way.

Besides the activities I will recommend for you to do in each village, do take the time to stroll around and explore the surroundings. The beauty of the Cotswolds is in the limestone architecture, the narrow streets and the flower gardens. Enjoy!

Bourton-on-the-Water

Often referred to as the Venice of the Cotswolds, Bourton-on-the-Water is one of the most beautiful villages in the Cotswolds but, at the same time, one of the most popular. This is why I highly recommend visiting Bourton-on-the-Water as early as possible and make it your first stop in your Cotswolds itinerary. There isn’t a lot of parking spaces in Bourton-on-the-Water either, so by arriving early you won’t lose time going in circles trying to find somewhere to park.

Where to park : The car park in Bourton-on-the-Water is located on the High Street , as you come from the main A429 road. Parking here is free but limited to one and a half hours. Alternatively, check out the Station Road Car Park , which costs £3/day.

The main river passing through Bourton on the river, with a row of honey colored houses along it. There are many people walking around the small sidewalk between the river and the houses. The sky is blue, with only one bigger cloud on the right hand side of the photo.

Things to do in Bourton-on-the-Water:

  • The Model Village is a miniature representation of the village, how it used to look like in 1930. The village is one-ninth of its full scale and it’s quite entertaining to walk through, especially when you take pictures and compare it with the actual buildings. This is especially entertaining for children. A ticket to the Model Village costs £4.25 for adults and £3.25 for children
  • The Motor Museum is home to a collection of old, rare cars, motorbikes and caravans. The museum also hosts a large toy collection which will bring back a lot of memories to many of us. A ticket to the Cotswolds Motor Museum costs £6.50 for adults and £4.60 for children. Kids under the age of 8 benefit from a free entrance.
  • Birdland Park and Gardens is home to over 500 different bird species, among which exotic specimens such as pink flamingos, penguins, parrots and birds of prey. A ticket to explore the park costs £9.95 for adults and £6.25 for children.
  • Walk the Warden’s Way , a path that starts in Bourton-on-the-Water and goes to Winchcombe, passing through picturesque villages such as Lower and Upper Slaughter, Naunton and Guiting Power. If you don’t have time to walk the entire 14 miles, the 1.6 miles (40 minutes) walk to Lower Slaughter will give you a glimpse of what exploring the Cotswolds countryside by foot, along the river, looks like.  

Where to eat/drink: I arrived in Bourton-on-the-Water around 10am and to my surprise, all the coffee shops along the waterfront were either full, or were asking if I had made a reservation. Walking a little bit out of the touristy area, I stumbled upon a small café with four tables outside, one of which was free. The owner was very happy to accommodate me at one of the free tables on the terrace, and I was happy to have breakfast there. The food was very good, the prices decent, and the staff super friendly, so I do recommend A’moore Coffee House as an alternative to the super busy cafes near the river.

Moreton-in-Marsh

Moreton-in-Marsh is a lovely market town that you shouldn’t miss during your Cotswolds itinerary, especially as it is not as crowded as other villages. The High Street in Moreton-in-Marsh is lined with beautiful buildings dating from the 17th and 18th century, which are now used as shops, restaurants, cafes and hotels.

Where to park : There are a few free parking spaces just after the Manor House Hotel , on both sides of the road. I didn’t notice any parking restrictions such as time limit or no return within a certain time frame.

Things to do in Moreton-in-Marsh:

A row of terraced houses with bay windows on one side, and car parked on the side of the road on the other side. In the second bay window there is a white rocking horse with a red saddle.

  • If you happen to visit Moreton-in-Marsh on a Tuesday, then checking out the weekly market is a must. You will find all sorts of things sold here, from local fruits and vegetables to clothes and handmade items.
  • The White Hart Hotel is worth a quick stop, even if only to look at from the outside. This is where King Charles I sheltered during the English Civil War, after the battle of Marston Moor in 1644. Fun fact, the king did not pay his bill, which is displayed on a plaque at the entrance lobby.
  • The Curfew Tower is believed to be the oldest building in Moreton-in-Marsh, dating from the 16th century. Located on the High Street, the role of the tower was to ring the bell each night, to remind the villagers of the risk at fire.
  • Cotswold Falconry Centre is home to over 60 species of birds, some of them critically endangered in the wild. Here, youngsters can enjoy daily demonstrations and learn about the behaviour of a bird of prey. The ticket fee for Cotswolds Falconry Centre is £12 for adults and £6 for children.
  • Batsford Arboretum has the country’s largest private collection of shrubs and trees. The 56-acre garden is dog friendly, has a plant nursery for gardening enthusiasts and a lovely café with home-baked food. The ticket price is £8.95 for adults and £3.50 for children.
  • If you are a Lord of the Rings fan, you much check out the Four Shire Stone , just on the outskirts of Moreton-in-Marsh. It is believed that this stone, which sits at the crossroads between Gloucestershire, Warwickshire, Worcestershire and Oxfordshire, was the inspiration for the Three-Farthing Stone in Lord of the Rings. J.R.R. Tolkien was a frequent visitor of Moreton-in-Marsh and liked to drink at the Bell Inn, which inspired The Prancing Pony pub at Bree, in the famous fantasy book.

Where to eat/drink: The Yellow Brick bistro serves delicious fresh homemade food, made with locally sourced ingredients, and they offer great value lunch deals. Their menu also includes local drinks such as Cotswolds gin and craft beer. The outside terrace is lovely, especially when the weather is sunny and warm.

Broadway is known for its honey coloured 16th century limestone Georgian buildings which line up the main “broad way”, from which the village gets its name.

Where to park : A good place to park with plenty of spaces is the Short Stay Car Park , just off Church Street. When I visited Broadway, the parking was free of charge, but there were ticket machines there, so I assume that it was just a temporary measure. Usually the maximum stay is 4 hours, and the charge is £3.

Things to do in Broadway:

Three storey heigh buildings, each with two rows of windows, and a solitary one on the roof level. The last house has large bay windows, with red flowers under each of the windows.

  • The Broadway Tower is the second highest point in the Cotswolds, at 1,024 feet above the sea level, and it is said that on a clear day you can see the landscape stretching to the horizon for miles. Unfortunately, when I visited the access was restricted due to a wedding, so I was unable to get too close.
  • During the years, Broadway has attracted many famous artists such as Claude Monet, Oscar Wilde, John Singer-Sargent, Edward Elgar, and William Morris. As an inspiration for many artists, both local and American, the Broadway Group of Artists was created, back in the 1880s. The Museum and Art Gallery hosts many of the works that these artists created during their time living in Broadway, inspired by the beauty of the village and the surrounding countryside. An adult ticket to visit the Museum and Art Gallery costs £5, whilst a child’s ticket is £2.
  • Visit the Snowshill Manor and Gardens , just 15 minutes from the village, for a fascinating introduction to the world of Charles Paget Wade. His eclectic collection includes furniture, paintings, costumes, musical instruments, and many other designer objects. He was so obsessed with his collection at the Snowshill Manor that he chose to live in a cottage in the garden rather than disturb anything in the big house. Snowshill Manor and Gardens belongs to the National Trust, so if you are a member, entrance is free. Otherwise, an adult ticket costs £8, whilst a child’s ticket is £4.
  • The Design Museum showcases 60 years of the innovative work of the well-known furniture designer Sir Gordon Russell. Located in his old workshop, a grade II listed building, the museum follows his footsteps and tells his life story. The ticket for the Gordon Russell Design Museum cost £5 for adults. Entrance is free for children under 16 years old.
  • If you visit Broadway in June, July or August, you must stop at the Cotswolds Lavender Farm for a few photos for Instagram, and a nice walk along the purple fields. You can also visit their distillery, to see how they make essential lavender oil. The fee to visit the lavender farm is £2,50 for adults and £1.50 for children.

Where to eat/drink: I found Broadway to have expensive restaurants, especially compared with other villages I visited before. I checked the menus at many different restaurants located on the main street in the village, and they were all pretty expensive. Don’t get me wrong , I do appreciate good food, but to pay £20 for a burger? – it has to be a damn good burger ! However, walking away from the main road I stumbled upon The Crown & Trumpet Inn , a traditional pub with friendly staff, where I was able to enjoy a delicious lunch for less than £7 in their lovely beer garden.

Blockley is a quiet sleepy Cotswolds village with not much to do, other than just walk around and admire the beautiful golden limestone buildings. Blockley is a charming village where everyone seems to know everyone else, and where locals say hello to you when you pass by each other on the street. There is only one small shop and one pub in the village, The Great Western Arms, making Blockley a great base if you are searching for a place away from the hustle and bustle of the big cities.

Where to park : There are only a few parking spaces, across from the pub, and near the church. Beware, Blockley is a hilly village with some very steep roads.

Things to do in Blockley:

A very narrow road in Blockley, with houses on each side of it, and cars parked very close to each other. Most of the houses have green plants climbing on them.

  • The Garden at Mill Dene is a very quaint place to visit. The mill was bought in 1964 by the Dene family. They started to transform the garden at the beginning of the 1990s, opening it up to the public for the first time in 1992. The trail around the garden takes 1.5 hours and offers beautiful views over the valley below. PS, there’s even a waterfall! An adult ticket to visit the Mill Dene Garden costs £8, whilst a child’s one is £4.

Where to eat/drink: Not much of a choice, with only one pub in the village. Head over to the Great Western Arms for a hearty dinner and a drink with the locals.

Bourton-on-the-Hill

A rown of cottages seen from the top of the road, going downhil. Their fences are made from stones put on top of each other. They have narrow gardens in front, with purple lavender bushes and red roses.

Bourton-on-the-Hill, as the name suggests , is located on a hill, offering beautiful views over nearby Moreton-in-Marsh and the valley below. Walking around Bourton-on-the-Hill can be a challenge because the hill is very steep.

Where to park: There is a small parking area at the bottom of the hill, near Bourton House Garden. I parked in one of the side streets behind the church, as I missed the main village parking.

Things to do in Bourton-on-the-Hill:

The church in Bourton on the Hill, with the graveyard in front. The gravestones are all different sizes and some of them are so old that they are not straight anymore

  • The Bourton House Garden is a perfect example of a Garde I listed 16th century Tithe Barn. The garden around it is a luxuriously terraced landscape , with topiaries, a raised basket pond and creative planters.  The ticket price for adults is £8, children under 16 years old benefit of free entry.
  • A few minutes’ drive out of the village, you will stumble upon Sezincote House , an odd Indian Moghul style mansion in the middle of the Cotswolds. It is set in a beautiful water garden and even has a temple dedicated with Surya, the Hindu God of the Sun. The ticket to visit Sezincote house cost £7.5 for adults and £2.5 for children.

Where to eat/drink:   Just like nearby Blockley, Bourton-on-the-Hill only has one pub, so there isn’t much variety when it comes to eating. The Horse and Groom sits at the end of the village, on the hill, offering traditional dishes with locally sourced ingredients. The views from the garden are totally worth the visit, even if it’s just for a drink.

Stow-on-the-Wold

The view towards the market square, from a side street, between stone buildings

Stow-on the-Wold used to be known for its huge annual fairs, where shepherds from all over the UK would sell their sheep, sometimes up to 20,000 a day. Stow-on-the-Wold bears a historical significance, as it was the place of the last battle of the English Civil War, in 1646. Standing at the crossroads of eight different roads, the town played a very important role in the movement of the troops, during the war.

Where to park : There is a large free car park right next to Tesco Superstore, just outside the town centre. Make sure you park in the free parking though, and not at Tesco.

Things to do in Stow-on-the-Wold:

On the right hand side there is the church in the main square of Stow on the Wold. On the other side there are small independs shops selling antiques. In the middle of the square there is a parking, with four cars parked.

  • With so many antique shops, art galleries and craft stores, Stow-on-the-Wold is a great place to go shopping for something unique for your house, or for handmade souvenirs and gifts.
  • Walking around town, you will stumble upon many narrow alleys. These are called “chures” and were used to herd the sheep into, and count them easily.
  • St. Edward’s Church which stands in the middle of the Market Square is famous for its stained-glass windows and it’s three framed doorway. The church was built between the 11th and the 15th century.
  • Every second Thursday of the month, the Farmers Market is held in the Main Square. Local farmers/growers come to sell their produce to both residents and tourists.

Where to eat/drink: I chose to stop at the Kings Arms , a small old pub with character and an outside terrace. I only had a drink here, and sat outside, enjoying the view of the main square in Stow-on-the-Wold. For dinner, check out Old Buckers , on Park Street. The food looked fantastic.

Lower Slaughter

The mill in Lower Slaughter, at sunset. The sky is blue and reflects the image of the mill in the river below.

It’s much better to visit Lower Slaughter as the last destination of the day, to avoid the crowds. The village is tiny but so beautiful and picturesque, that you will want to have it all to yourself. The traditional limestone cottages on both sides of the river culminate with the view of the old mill and its original water wheel, which is still functioning. Lower Slaughter is also home to the most romantic street in Britain, voted in a poll created by Google Street View, in 2011.

Where to park : There are a few free parking spaces on Copsehill Road, opposite the Slaughters Manor House . Parking is very limited so you either arrive early/late in the day, or park in Bourton-on-the-Water and walk to Lower Slaughter.

Things to do in Lower Slaughter:

A small concrete bridge crossing the river. The mill is in the back on the photo, whilst on the top right there are limestone houses. I am sitting on the side of the river, in the down left corner, with my back at the camera, wearing a gray windbreaker jacket.

  • Visit the Old Mill Museum , where you will learn about the process of flour and grist milling with the help of water and stones, and see the original machinery dating from the 18th century. The mill is also a tea house, producing their own organic ice cream, so if not for the museum, it’s worth stopping by for a cup of tea and a cold dessert.

Where to eat/drink: Have a drink at the Slaughter’s Country Inn , or even dinner if it’s that time of the day. The outside terrace is breath-taking, especially because you can take your drink and sit on a bench by the river. Isn’t that romantic?

A row of different sized houses, some with 2, some with three floors. The second house is different: it has black timber framing on the outside.

Painswick is a historic wool town in the Cotswolds, very picturesque and tranquil. Also known as “The Queen of the Cotswolds”, Painswick was recently the filming set for BBC’s “The Casual Vacancy”, by J.K. Rowling.

Where to park: There is a medium sized car park near the church, just off New Street. Stamages Lane Car Park is very reasonable priced, with 40p an hour, capped at £2.50 for 5+ hours. Sundays is free of charge.

Things to do in Painswick:

The cemetery, with yew threes which have different sizes and shapes. The gravestones are tall, and look similar with tabletops.

  • The church of St. Mary is famous for its 99 yew trees in its garden. The legend says that 100 were planted, but one of them didn’t grow. Every time there is an attempt to plant the 100th tree, it dies. In the churchyard there are also some unusual tombs which resemble tabletops. The church itself is also quite spectacular, built between the 14th and the 16th century, with a dramatic spire which was added in 1632.
  • The New Street in Painswick is not that new at all. It was built in the 15th century and is home to the oldest building in England to hold a Post Office , which unfortunately is now closed. It is the only building in Painswick with exposed timber framing.
  • The Painswick Rococo garden dates from the 18th century and features seasonal flowers and vegetable plots. It’s a unique quirky garden, the only one in the Rococo style in the country. A ticket to visit the Rococo garden costs £10 for adults and £4.60 for children.

Where to eat/drink : The Royal Oak is a cosy country pub which serves delicious food made with locally sourced ingredients . It also has a good selection of local ales. The staff were very friendly too.

The river passing through towards the mill. On the left hand side there is a terrace, with people enjoying breakfast. The light is creating a faded rainbow over the water, in the central part of the photo.

Nailsworth is a quiet artistic village, worth stopping at for a quick look, a good English breakfast, and beautiful river views.

Where to park: There is a large free parking area on Old Market street , just above the town centre.

What to do in Nailsworth:

  • There isn’t that much to do in Nailsworth, other than walk around and explore the town. The Church of St. George is an imposing building, overlooking the town.

Where to eat/drink : The Egypt Mill Hotel and Restaurant serves a fantastic breakfast in a superb location, by the river. It is a hotel, but they do serve outside guests as well. I can imagine that dinners here are special as well, because of their privileged location.

Castle Combe

The crossroad at the main square in Castle Combe, with a stone cross in the middle.

Castle Combe is without a doubt one of the most beautiful villages in England and unless you visit it early in the morning, you will unfortunately encounter crowds of people . Castle Comb is in the Southern part of the Cotswolds, so prepare to drive almost an hour to reach it. It is worth it though, and Castle Combe should be part of your Cotswolds itinerary, because of how it’s special architecture and layout will make you feel that you’ve stepped back in time.

Where to park: The car park is in the upper side of the village, on top of the hill. It is free of charge and there are plenty of spaces.

Things to do in Castle Combe:

  • Castle Combe is such a photogenic village. You will not want to put your camera down. For that perfect Cotswolds Instagram shot, head downhill from the Market Place towards the river, and find the iconic bridge at tsouth of the village.
  • So many movies were filmed in Castle Combe , including Doctor Thorne, Doctor Dolittle, Stardust, War Horse, Robin Hood and Poirot. It’s fun to walk around, whilst trying to recognise where the scenes from these movies were filmed.
  • The village of Castle Combe was built around the Market Cross, which is next to an old water pump , in the 14th century. What is interesting is that the church of St Andrews , which is thought to be dating from the 12th century, features a 15th century faceless clock, one of the oldest in England.

Where to eat/drink : Stop at the Old Rectory tea room for a delicious afternoon tea, with freshly baked scones, finger sandwiches and homemade cakes.

Cirencester

A row of pasteled colored buildings, all which have shops at the ground floor.

Cirencester is often referred to as the Capital of the Cotswolds and has a significant historical importance, being the second largest Roman City in Britain during the first four centuries. During the fourth century, it is believed that Corinium (Cirencester) was the capital of Britannia Prima (Latin for “First Britain”). This means that in Cirencester you will find a lot of Roman remains and a city that has the same charm as Bath, but without the crowds .

Where to park : I parked at Abby Grounds Car Park , which was free on the Sunday I visited. During the other weekdays the fee to park here is £1.30 per hour, with a maximum of £6.50 for 10 hours. It is a good-sized car park , with around 100 spaces. The entrance is very narrow though, so take care, especially if you have a bigger car. I did bump into the raised curb.

Things to do in Cirencester:

A row of limestone buildings on one side of a small road, and more modern concrete buildings on the other.

  • The 12th century Gothic Church of St John The Baptist is visible from many corners of the town and stands out as a symbol of the city. It is one of the largest parish churches in England and it can be visited free of charge. Weather permitting, it is possible to climb up the tower for a fee of £5 per adult and £2 for children over 8 years old. Children under 8 years old are not permitted to climb the tower. Fun fact, if you do climb the tower, upon your return you will receive a certificate to attest that you have done it.
  • Unfortunately, there is not a lot left of the majestic Roman amphitheatre that used to have a capacity of 8,000 people, but you can still visit the site and see its large shape. At the visitors centre they have aerial views of the site, which gives you a better idea of the architecture and positioning of the amphitheatre. Access to the roman amphitheatre is free of charge.
  • Corinium Museum is a must if you are interested in the Roman heritage of Britain. The museum holds a large collection of artefacts that were found during archaeological excavations, such as statues, coins, mosaics, ceramics, and much more. An adult ticket to the Corinium Museum costs £6 and a child’s ticket is £2.85.

Where to eat/drink : There are so many local cute cafes and restaurants in Cirencester. For an authentic experience though, head to The Fleece , a restaurant and five stars hotel located in the most Instagrammable house in Cirencester. You can choose a table by the big windows and enjoy a menu of pub classics.

The famous row of cottages in Bibury, a must visit in this Cotswold itinerary. The houses have vegetation growing above the doors

Bibury is probably one of the most beautiful villages in the Cotswolds, but also one of the most popular. You must add Bibury to your Cotswolds itinerary, but think carefully and visit at the end of the day.  Not only will you be able to explore the village all by yourself, but you will be able to take photos of the famous Arlington Row without anyone around.

Where to park: There are a few parking spaces opposite the Trout Farm . I visited Bibury twice, once early morning and once in the evening, and I always found space .

Things to do in Bibury:

  • Arlington Row made Bibury famous. This row of traditional Cotswold houses used to serve as a monastic wool store, and later on in the 17th century , as cottages for weavers. This picturesque lane was used as a filming location for many movies, the most famous being Bridget Jones’s Diary.
  • The trout farm is a must, if not to visit the farm, at least to buy some smoked fish. Try to arrive at Bibury before 6pm, as that is when they close the shop. Alternatively, pop by in the morning, when they open. It’s not far from Gloucester.

Where to eat/drink: The Catherine Wheel is a great pub with a pretty beer garden and friendly staff. Do take note though, that they might end the food service earlier than advertised . It happened to me, but because Bibury was the last stop of the day and I was heading back to Gloucester anyway, I had dinner there.  Consequently, I can’t tell you about the food at The Catherine Wheel, but the drinks I had in the garden were great.

There are many other stunning villages in the Cotswolds but, in two days, you can’t possibly see all of them. In this 2 days Cotswolds itinerary I included all the villages I have visited, including helpful recommendations on where I parked and where I ate , or enjoyed a drink. You can customise this road trip to the Cotswolds as you wish, extending it for more days and spending more time in each village. Even though I visited quite a few Cotswolds villages every day, I didn’t feel that I was rushed, especially because they are quite small. I did start each day early, and finished at sunset, so bare that in mind if you want to attempt the same itinerary.

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Cotswolds itinerary

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A beautiful building in Cambridge. The entrance is through a tower with four smaller towers on the top. The facade is made from reddish bricks.

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I love that you let us know that there wasn’t much to do in Nailsworth. Thank you for being honest and telling us to just look around. I appreicate that.

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On the Luce travel blog

A weekend in The Cotswolds: 2-day Cotswolds itinerary

Posted on Last updated: November 21, 2023

How to spend a weekend in the Cotswolds, England: Discover the best things to see, do, eat and drink in the Cotswolds in a two-day itinerary featuring castles, country pubs, gardens and pretty villages.

* This site contains affiliate links , where I get a small commission from purchases at no extra cost to you.

Cotswold stone cottages in Lower Slaughter

With its green rolling hills, honey-stone villages, cosy pubs, castles, country houses and manicured gardens, the Cotswolds’ film set good looks have made it the quintessential English countryside destination. I’m lucky enough to have this beautiful region on my doorstep, but the Cotswolds also makes a great destination for a weekend break.

The Cotswolds covers 800 square miles so it’s hard to know where to start, especially if you only have a few days. So we’ve picked some the highlights of the Cotswolds, for a taste of everything which makes this area so special. This 2-day itinerary will help you plan the perfect weekend in the Cotswolds, with what to see, where to eat, drink and stay.

Read more about the Cotswolds in our sister blog Explore the Cotswolds

How to spend a weekend in The Cotswolds

The Broadway Tower in the Cotswolds

Friday evening

Once you’ve checked into your accommodation, start your weekend in the Cotswolds at the Broadway Tower. This Rapunzel-style tower sits on a hilltop outside the village of Broadway and is a Gothic folly built in 1798. The tower was used as a countryside retreat by designer William Morris – and more unexpectedly was also the site of a nuclear bunker.

It’s the second-highest point in the Cotswolds, with views across 16 counties and out as far as Wales on a clear day – which makes it a great place to watch the sun go down.

Then carry on into Broadway for dinner at The Lygon Arms .* This coaching inn dates back to the 1300s and has hosted everyone from Oliver Cromwell to Elizabeth Taylor. The Lygon Bar and Grill comes with chandeliers, open fireplaces and wood panelling, and serves local produce like Evesham asparagus and Gloucester Old Spot pork.

The Lygon Arms in Broadway on a weekend in the Cotswolds

Saturday morning

The following morning, make an early start to avoid the crowds in Bourton-on-the-Water . Known as the ‘Venice of the Cotswolds’, Bourton is regularly voted one of the prettiest villages in England, so it’s no surprise it’s one of the area’s most popular spots.

Grab a coffee and croissant from the Bakery on the Water then take a walk along the River Windrush, which is crossed by five stone bridges and lined with historic buildings and overhanging trees. Explore Bourton in miniature at the Model Village, a one-ninth scale replica of the village, or see vintage cars and bikes at the Cotswold Motoring Museum.

The River Windrush in Bourton-on-the-Water

Then travel 1.5 miles north of Bourton to the twin villages of Upper and Lower Slaughter – who get their slightly unappealing name from an old English word for muddy or boggy place rather than anything more sinister! In these villages nothing has changed for more than a century, with no building work taking place at all since 1906.

Park in Lower Slaughter and follow the shallow River Eye past chocolate-box country cottages draped in flowers to The Old Mill. There’s been a water mill here since the Domesday Book, and it’s now museum, café and craft shop.

The Old Mill in Lower Slaughter in the Cotswolds

Carry on past the mill and follow the mile-long path to Upper Slaughter, along the riverside and across open fields. Once you get there, take a look around St Peter’s Church and watch cars braving the ford though the river. Or call in to the grand Lords of the Manor * for a drink on the terrace and a stroll around their gardens on a sunny day.

Head back to Lower Slaughter and travel six miles east to Daylesford for lunch. This ultra-trendy farm shop slash café is a favourite with the Cotswolds celebrity crowd.

They specialise in organic, sustainable produce, growing their own fruit, vegetables and herbs as well as having a creamery and butchers on site. You can pick up bread, cheese and deli produce from the shop for a picnic, or eat in at The Trough Café, with vegetable tarts and salads on the menu, using ingredients fresh from the garden.

The Lords of the Manor Hotel and the River Eye in Upper Slaughter

Saturday afternoon

After lunch, drive 20 miles south to the village of Bibury, just north of Cirencester. There are a few different routes to get there, but the most scenic is along the B4425 which passes through a string of tiny villages called the Rissingtons and the Barringtons.

Bibury was once a mill town on the banks of the River Coln, surrounded by tranquil water meadows. But its picturesque good looks have made it one of the most famous Cotswold villages and it’s starred in Hollywood movies like 2007’s Stardust .

Arlington Row in Bibury in the Cotswolds

Head to Arlington Row – a row of cottages which are so typically English they even appeared on the inside cover of UK passports. They were originally built as a monastic wool store before being converted into weavers’ cottages in the 17th century. They’re now owned by the National Trust so you can’t go inside, but it’s a great spot for photographs.

Then travel 10 miles east to Burford, at the south edge of the Cotswolds. Burford was another centre of the medieval wool trade, and if you walk up to the top of the High Street and up Burford Hill you can look out over its historic buildings to the River Windrush.

Cottages on Burford Hill

Burford has lots of interesting antique shops and independent boutiques to explore – as well as the Burford Garden Centre on the edge of town. And you can satisfy any sugar cravings with a sticky caramelised lardy cake from Huffkins Bakery .

Then finish your day with dinner in Kingham, nine miles north of Burford. This small village is an unexpected Cotswold foodie hotspot, with two award-winning gastropubs. There’s the Michelin-starred Wild Rabbit – which is part of the Daylesford estate – or the more traditional Kingham Plough with its antique furniture and cosy log fires.

Huffkins Bakery in Burford on a weekend in the Cotswolds

Sunday morning

Start your Sunday with visit to Sudeley Castle . This 15th-century castle was home to Katherine Parr, Henry VIII’s sixth and final wife, who’s buried in St Mary’s Chapel – making it the only private castle in England with a queen buried in its grounds. Sudeley is still a private residence (and pricey wedding venue) but parts are open to the public.

There are exhibitions featuring Tudor costumes and Katherine Parr’s books and letters. You can also see the damage where the castle was ‘slighted’ at the end of the English Civil War, leaving much of it in ruins for 200 years until it was bought and restored.

cotswolds 2 day trip

And there are 10 different gardens, including the Queens’ Garden where you can follow in the footsteps of at least four English queens, a pheasantry and an adventure playground for kids. Look out for special sculptures displays in the grounds too.

Then head south past Cheltenham to Cockleford for lunch. If you have time, make a stop off at Leckhampton Hill, just outside Cheltenham. It’s part of the Cotswold Way long-distance walking route and is one of my favourite viewpoints in the Cotswolds.

Views from Leckhampton Hill outside Cheltenham in the Cotswolds

You can either park on Daisybank Road at the bottom of the hill or in the car park on Hartley Lane at the top if you don’t fancy so much of a climb. Then it’s a short walk to the top for views out over Cheltenham, the Severn Valley and Malvern Hills.

Then carry on to the Green Dragon Inn in the tiny hamlet of Cockleford for a traditional Sunday roast with all the trimmings. The pub dates back to 1643 and has bags of character with flagstone floors, beamed ceilings, hand-carved bars and furniture and open fires. There’s also a flower-filled beer garden and a good selection of local ales.

The Cotswold Lavender fields

Sunday afternoon

Then finish your weekend in the Cotswolds with a walk around one of the area’s beautiful gardens. The best one to choose will depend on which time of year you’re visiting, with a few places only open to the public for a limited season for particular blooms.

There are snowdrops at Colesbourne Park in February, the Cotswold Lavender and Confetti Flower Fields are open in June and July before the harvest, and Westonbirt and Batsford arboretums have colourful autumn leaves in September and October.

Otherwise Painswick Rococo Garden is a good choice at any time of year. It’s around 10 miles south of Cockleford in a tucked-away valley on the edge of the village of Painswick. The gardens were designed in the 1740s in an architectural style which was all about the frivolous and the flamboyant. As well as plants and flowers there are with follies and viewpoints, restored to their former glory based on a painting from the time.

Painswick Rococo Garden in the Cotswolds

Then pop into Painswick for tea – the village was the birthplace of the Twining tea-producing family so they know how to make a good cuppa. Painswick is also a favourite spot for artists. The village is set around St Mary’s Church which has 99 neatly trimmed yew trees in its churchyard – legend has it that if a 100th tree is planted it never survives.

Finally call into The Painswick hotel for afternoon tea before heading home. Indulge in a Champagne tea with sandwiches, cakes and scones or keep it simple with a classic scones, jam and cream, on the lawn in summer or by the fire in the winter.

St Mary’s Church in Painswick

Map of things to do in the Cotswolds

Map of things to do in the Cotswolds

The details

How to get to the cotswolds.

There are three main train lines through the Cotswolds – one in the north which calls at Moreton-in-Marsh and Kingham, one in the centre which goes to Stroud and Cheltenham , and one in the south to Bristol and Bath . You can also take the train to Oxford or Stratford-upon-Avon which are just outside but within easy reach of the Cotswolds.

The nearest airports are Birmingham for the north Cotswolds or Bristol for the south Cotswolds. You can take a train direct from Birmingham International or catch the Bristol Airport Flyer bus to Bristol Temple Meads train station. There are also National Express buses which connect London Heathrow to Cirencester, Cheltenham and Bath.

The River Coln and Swan Hotel in Bibury in the Cotswolds

Getting around the Cotswolds

The Cotswolds isn’t the easiest place to get around by public transport – especially if you want to visit lots of different locations within a short period of time – so if possible it’s best to explore the region by car. If you don’t have your own car, you can pick up a hire car in either Cheltenham, Stroud, Bath, Oxford or Stratford-upon-Avon.

If you don’t want to hire a car there are bus services connecting the main towns and villages in the Cotswolds, but they’re not very frequent (and often non-existent on Sundays). So it’s easiest to base yourself in one place and travel out on day trips – this guide to public transport in the Cotswold has suggestions for itineraries without a car.

St Peter's Church in Upper Slaughter in the Cotswolds

Where to stay in the Cotswolds

The Old Stocks Inn * is a converted 17th-century coaching inn overlooking Stow-on-the-Wold’s village green. There’s lots of old-fashioned charm from its oak beams and crooked stone walls, but it’s been given a contemporary makeover with roll-top baths, velvet sofas and Scandi-style soft furnishings. There’s also a good restaurant and bar on site.

Or splash out on a stay at the luxurious Barnsley House *, a manor house surrounded by gardens and peaceful countryside but just four miles north of Cirencester. It’s a romantic spot with 18 stylish rooms and suites, a cocktail bar and restaurant, and special touches like an award-winning spa, hydrotherapy pool and garden cinema.

If you’d rather a place to yourself, there are plenty of traditional country cottages to rent in the Cotswolds which come with tons of character features. Some of our favourites include Field Cottage *, a one-bed thatched cottage with woodburner and roll-top bath in the sleepy village of Elmley Castle. Or four-bedroom Archers * in the grounds of Sudeley Castle.

Looking for somewhere to stay in the Cotswolds?*

The Old Stocks Inn in Stow-on-the-Wold in the Cotswolds

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How to spend a weekend in the Cotswolds, England: Discover the best things to see, do, eat and drink in the Cotswolds in a two-day itinerary featuring castles, country pubs, gardens and pretty villages | Visiting the Cotswolds | Cotswolds weekend break | Cotswolds itinerary | Things to do in the Cotswolds | Cotswolds travel guide

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Carolyn McCormack

Saturday 20th of May 2023

Hi Lucy we are driving from London and want to spend two nights. Only have two full days as have to be back in London the morning after second night. We were thinking of seeing bath and the best Cotswolds villages. But there are too many to choose. Just wondering should we stay a night in bath before heading to Cotswolds the following morning. Or should we do two nights based in the middle of Cotswolds and which highway should we take. Hope you can help. Thanks Carolyn

Lucy Dodsworth

Friday 26th of May 2023

Hi Carolyn – this post on my other site Explore the Cotswolds might be useful as it has some suggested day itineraries by car https://explorethecotswolds.com/day-trip-from-london-to-cotswolds/ With two days you could do the third itinerary near Bath one day and then itinerary 1 or 2 on the second day if you stayed somewhere central like Stow-on-the-Wold, Bourton-on-the-Water or Chipping Campden.

Friday 6th of January 2023

If visiting the Cotswolds and following your two day itinerary, is there free parking to park your car in most villages? Is it easy to find parking? We will be visiting in early March. I assume most things will be open? We were thinking of staying in Cirencester. Is this a good central place?

Saturday 7th of January 2023

Hi Mary, Cirencester is very central so is a good choice if you want to explore the area. Parking is limited in the villages but you should be ok in March as it's not too busy then – my other site Explore the Cotswolds has details of parking in each of the main towns and villages (https://explorethecotswolds.com/category/destinations/). Most things should be open in March, though some National Trust/historic houses do close for winter so check in advance.

Thursday 29th of December 2022

Can you recommend a cottage similar to Field Cottage that can sleep 3 adults? Thanks!

Hi Betsy – I have lots of accommodation options on my Explore the Cotswolds site, either in the listings for individual towns and villages if you know where you want to stay or there are some more general ideas too: https://explorethecotswolds.com/

Wednesday 14th of September 2022

I will be traveling from Edinburgh and thought a train ride would work? Then I wanted to stay 4 nights in the cotswolds. What town do you recommend we take the train to which I assume will become our home town for our stay?

Monday 19th of September 2022

Hi Joe, I have a lot more information about traveling around the Cotswolds by public transport on my local travel site, Explore the Cotswolds – this is a good place to start with some suggested itineraries https://explorethecotswolds.com/cotswolds-by-public-transport/

Cindy Crank

Wednesday 27th of October 2021

Great itinerary! We will be there next April so this is wonderful to have. The driving scares me a bit as we are from Canada but hopefully nobody drives too fast around the Cotswolds!

Wednesday 10th of November 2021

Hope you have a fantastic trip! I also have another blog https://explorethecotswolds.com/ which might be useful. Most of the roads through the Cotswold are pretty small so you shouldn't find the driving too fast.

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How to Spend 2 Days Driving in the Cotswolds - Itinerary

How to Spend 2 Days Driving in the Cotswolds – Itinerary

  • Last Updated 14 November 2022

Some posts on this site contain affiliate links. If you book or buy something through these links, I earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). Take a look at my privacy policy for more information.

View of woodland and fields with a sunset sky above - driving in the cotswolds itinerary

Dreaming of a countryside escape in England? This relaxed two- or three-day itinerary for driving in the Cotswolds will show you the best of the area.

A couple of years ago, I headed off to the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) for an overnight countryside getaway.

Two days of driving through the idyllic countryside, stopping off for forest walks, pub lunches, and cute villages. It was lush – watch the video to see more.

Then, lockdown struck and I never bothered to write up the blog post! I’m now correcting that mistake with a quick and easy 6-stop Cotswolds driving route that can be done over a weekend, or as part of a short break.

On my trip, I wanted to see as much as possible in two days, without feeling rushed or spending too much time driving. If that’s what you’re after too, hopefully you’ll find it here.

For this post, I’ve teamed up with Classic Cottages , who have an incredible range of holiday cottages in the Cotswolds, as well as the rest of the UK. I stayed at one of their properties on my trip to St Agnes last summer and it was an absolute dream – probably the best place I stayed that year!

So, get that Insta-worthy accommodation booked, pack your hiking boots, and hit the road for a gorgeous few days exploring the Cotswolds by car…

Driving in the Cotswolds Itinerary Map

3. bourton-on-the-water, 4. the slaughters, 5. broadway tower, 6. stow-on-the-wold, where to stay in the cotswolds, tips for driving in the cotswolds.

This post was brought to you in collaboration with Classic Cottages, but as always all words and opinions are my own. The two-day driving trip in the Cotswolds that I’ve based my itinerary on was paid for by me.

How to Spend 2 Days Driving in the Cotswolds - Itinerary

Cotswolds Itinerary Route Stops

The following Cotswolds driving itinerary spreads nicely across two or three days. I did three stops per day, which was manageable, but I’d recommend three days with two stops per day so that you have longer to make the most of each village – and relax a bit in between.

Alternatively, you could base yourself in one place for a few days and take trips out to explore. Bourton-on-the-Water makes a nice central location, and from there you could do stops one and two as a day trip, followed by stops four to six the next day.

However you do it, these are my top spots for a relaxing Cotswolds road trip…

row of beige stone cottages in a line in front of a path next to grass and trees - cotswolds driving itinerary

Kick off your driving tour with one of the most iconic spots in the Cotswolds. Bibury is a ridiculously pretty village near Cirencester which makes the perfect introduction to the area.

Close your eyes and imagine an old-fashioned English village. That’s what Bibury looks like.

William Morris called it “the most beautiful village in England” – and he may well be right.

At the heart of the village, Arlington Row is one of the most visited and most photographed locations in the area. It’s a picturesque row of 17th-century weaver’s cottages, built from honey-coloured stone with steep grey slate roofs.

It was used as a backdrop for the 2007 movie Stardust (though not for Bridget Jones, as some blogs will tell you – that was filmed in Snowshill).

Be warned – Arlington Row can get pretty busy. Tourists turn up by the bus-load to photograph that pretty strip of houses. Arrive early in the day (before 10am) or late afternoon to avoid the rush!

Top things to do in Bibury

  • Snap a selfie outside Arlington Row
  • Take a walk along the River Coln
  • Admire the historic Arlington Mill

a wooden gate next to a hedge with a view of a green valley and woodlands behind

Most Cotswolds itineraries seem to stick to the eastern half of the AONB, which is where some of the better-known villages and attractions are situated. But it’s also worth heading a little to the west, too. And after busy Bibury, the tranquil, often-overlooked village of Slad is the perfect tonic.

This tiny village sits on the edge of the picturesque Slad Valley, not far from Stroud, and is surrounded by woodlands and nature reserves.

Slad was the home of the writer and poet Laurie Lee, author of Cider with Rosie . The Laurie Lee Wildlife Way is a 5-mile walking route dotted with ten posts, each one containing one of Lee’s poems. It’s a great way to discover his work – and the route itself is a lovely woodland walk with gorgeous views of the valley.

Top Things to do in Slad

  • Walk the Laurie Lee Wildlife Way
  • Visit Laurie Lee Wood (especially during bluebell season)
  • Have a drink at the 300-year-old Woolpack Inn

a wide river with green trees on either side and a path on the right next to some beige stone cottages

Next stop – the picturesque village of Bourton-on-the-Water. Nicknamed the “Venice of the Cotswolds”, this is another of the prettiest villages in the area, seated on the scenic River Windrush.

It’s a larger village than some of the others, and quite touristy, so you’ll find lots to do. And prenty of great pubs and eateries to enjoy, too. This makes the village an excellent base for exploring the Cotswolds.

Top Tip: If you’re doing this Cotswolds driving itinerary over three days, I recommend arriving in Bourton-on-the-Water early on your second day to avoid the crowds.

Top Things to do in Bourton-on-the-Water

  • Visit the model village, a one-ninth stone scale model of the town
  • Walk along the River Windrush
  • Visit the Cotswold Motoring Museum
  • Take a brewery tour at the Cotswold Brewing Company 
  • More things to do in Bourton-on-the-Water

a shallow flat river with a row of beige stone cottages behind and several trees and a sunset sky behind - driving in the cotswolds england

Get two villages for the price of one with Upper and Lower Slaughter, two super scenic spots situated a mile apart along the River Eye.

The odd name actually comes from an old English term meaning “wet land” or “muddy”. Since both villages are so close together, you can leave your car in one and walk between the two.

When you see the warm, gold-beige stone cottages reflected in the calm waters of the river, you’ll soon decide that these are two of the prettiest villages in the Cotswolds.

Top Things to do in Upper and Lower Slaughter

  • Walk the 1-mile path along the river from Upper to Lower Slaughter or vice-versa.
  • Visit Lower Slaughter Museum – housed in a 19th-century flour mill with a working waterwheel
  • Go for a meal at the Lords of the Manor Hotel – a stunning 17th-century manor house.
  • More things to do in The Slaughters

a path between two bare trees with a stone tower behind with an empty blue sky - cotswolds driving itinerary

Head towards the northern border of the Cotswolds to reach Broadway Tower. That’s right – the first stop on our driving itinerary that’s NOT a village!

Broadway Tower was built in 1799 as a Gothic-style folly (a building that had no real purpose).

It stands on Broadway Hill, 1,024 feet above sea level. So climbing to the top of the 65ft tower affords some spectacular views of the surrounding countryside.

The tower sits on a 200-acre estate of parkland, so you can also follow several walking routes to soak up the beautiful countryside. Keep an eye out for the resident deer and other wildlife.

Top Tip: Fans of the movie Bridget Jones might want to detour to Snowshill on the way. The scenic village was used as a filming location for Bridget’s parent’s countryside home.

Wooden door on a stone church wall between two trees with thick trunks and lots of green leaves

The final stop on our Cotswolds driving route is Stow-on-the-Wold. This is yet another of the prettiest and most popular villages in the Cotswolds, and it also makes a good base for exploring.

This fairytale-esque village is famous for the historic Yew Door in St. Edward’s Church: a large wooden door flanked by two enormous yew trees, thought to have inspired JRR Tolkein to create the Doors of Durin in The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring .

Top Things to do in Stow-on-the-Wold

  • Visit the Yew Tree Door
  • Explore the independent boutiques, art galleries, and antique shops around Market Square
  • Walk through the countryside to the nearby village of Maugersbury
  • More things to do in Stow-on-the-Wold

sunset over a small village with beige buildings and a wide flat river

Bourton-on-the-Water, Upper Slaughter, and Stow-on-the-Wold are all ideal central locations for completing this Cotswolds itinerary. All three villages have several hotels and inns if you want to stay nearby.

If you plan to spend a few days driving in the Cotswolds, but also relaxing in the countryside, a self-catering cottage might be more suitable. Classic Cottages have some amazing properties all around the UK, so have a browse and you’re sure to find your dream cottage. Here are a few of my favourites…

Stonewell Cottage, Stow on the Wold

Sleeps 4 + cot

How to Spend 2 Days Driving in the Cotswolds - Itinerary

Stonewell Cottage is a single-storey stone cottage with a fascinating history. Its thick wooden beams and exposed stone walls are teamed with a light and airy modern decor to create the ultimate countryside escape. And the outside patio area is ideal for al fresco dining or relaxing on sunny days.

Park Farm Cottage, near Malmesbury

Sleeps 8 + 2 cots

cottage built from beige stone and a grey roof with a fgreen lawn in front

Enjoy uninterrupted countryside views from a beautiful farmhouse at Park Farm Cottage , a detached stone cottage nestled on the southern fringes of the Cotswolds. Highlights include the feature fireplace, huge flagstone kitchen, and the original features throughout. Outside, there’s a large enclosed garden with a patio, an orchard, and two paddocks, totalling some three acres.

Little Maunditts Cottage, Sherston

Sleeps 6 + 2 cots

a lounge with white walls and floors and a cream leather sofa with large patio doors open and a patio outside on a sunny day

Nestled in a quiet lane in charming Sherston,  Little Maunditts Cottage gives you the very best of Cotswold village life. The cosy cottage boasts a lovely garden, with big bi-fold doors to let the summer breeze indoors on nice days. But there’s also underfloor heating to add a cosy touch on cooler days and nights – so it’s ideal if you’re visiting during winter.

a stone bridge with a narrow road over a shallow calm river and a row of beige stone cottages behind and a green woodland behind that - tips for driving in the cotswolds

Small Cars. If you have a choice, try to opt for a smaller car. The Cotswolds’ narrow lanes and limited street parking mean big cars often struggle to fit.

Download your maps! Signal is often patchy across The Cotswolds, so it’s a good idea to download an offline version of Google Maps to your phone (or whatever equivalent you use). If your signal drops out, you won’t lose your directions. Phew!

Travelling with Dogs. The Cotswolds are a dream destination for people travelling with dogs. Try to limit your driving time in between stops, though, as your four-legged friend might get restless on longer drives. Thankfully, Classic Cottages have plenty of dog-friendly holiday cottages with hot tubs in the Cotswolds – so you and your furry best friend can unwind at the end of the day.

Flood warnings. When it rains in The Cotswolds, some of the roads can get huge puddles. Yellow hazard warnings have been left at spots where minor flooding is common, so if you see one, just slow down and be ready. If you do drive into a big puddle, remember your driving lessons: don’t brake or speed up. And be sure to test your brakes afterwards before carrying on.

Take the scenic route. Satnavs will usually send you along the most direct route, which often means main roads. Main roads in The Cotswolds are still pretty scenic, but the smaller backroads are often much prettier. If time is on your side, take a look at the map and plot a route along some of the winding country lanes for a lovely scenic drive.

How to Spend 2 Days Driving in the Cotswolds - Itinerary

Driving in the Cotswolds: Final Thoughts

The beauty of a relaxed itinerary like this one is that you can tailor it to fit around you.

If you want a longer holiday, pick a nice holiday cottage to base yourself for a long weekend or a week. You can spend two days of your stay taking mini road trips around the stops I’ve mentioned – as well as spending some days relaxing in your cottage garden or taking walks around the area you’re staying in.

You could also do this as a three-day road trip, staying in Bourton-on-the-Water one night and at Stow-on-the-Wold or another village on the second.

In fact, you could probably even do this Cotswolds driving itinerary in one day. Although I wouldn’t recommend it as you’d have to rush, and some of these villages invite a lot of lingering!

Whatever you get up to – driving in the Cotswolds is a beautiful experience that feels like getting right to the heart of the quintessential English countryside. Enjoy.

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The Portable Wife

Home » Travel » Destinations » A Perfectly Charming Cotswolds Day Trip Itinerary

A Perfectly Charming Cotswolds Day Trip Itinerary

cotswolds 2 day trip

If your vision of an English holiday includes stone cottages, rose gardens, and impossibly charming villages, this Cotswolds day trip itinerary is for you.

Honeyed stone cottage next to red postbox in popular village on a Cotswolds day trip itinerary.

England’s Cotswold region is frequently cited as the most beautiful area in the country. In fact, it’s officially designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).

And once you’ve stepped into Chipping Campden’s village center and strolled along the country roads of Painswick, you’ll understand why.

This day trip to the Cotswolds takes you through the entire region from south to north.

It begins in Castle Combe, which regularly tops the lists of prettiest villages in the Cotswolds. From there, we’ll drive north to Painswick, where the famous Painswick Beacon offers sweeping panoramic views of the village and countryside.

After that moderate hike, we’ll rest in the car on the way to the Slaughters, a slightly terrifying name for this picturesque pair of villages. Finally, we’ll end the Cotswolds driving tour in Chipping Campden, whose high street is filled with lovely English shops and several historic churches.

If you’re trying to take a Cotswolds day trip from London and/or do not want to drive, check out these guided tours !

This Cotswolds self driving tour is part of my  UK road trip  guide, which includes over a dozen destinations from London to Edinburgh!

This post contains affiliate links. For more information, click here .

Table of Contents

Castle combe, lower slaughter and upper slaughter, chipping campden, day trip to cotswolds itinerary map, tips for a successful cotswolds self drive tour, how to spend a weekend in cotswolds england.

  • Where to Stay for Cotswolds Breaks

Cotswolds Day Trip Itinerary

Traditional Cotswolds cottage in Castle Combe with ivy on facade.

Just a mere 30 minute drive from Bath, Castle Combe is one of the best Cotswold villages to visit.

Traditional yellow stone buildings line the flowing waters of By Brook, with flowers and climbing ivy adding a fairy tale atmosphere. And with fewer than 50 residences, the village retains a tranquil atmosphere that contrasts nicely with the bustle of nearly Bath and London.

Although Castle Combe is best known for its photogenic cottages, the 13th century St. Andrew’s Church makes for striking photos as well. And just across the way, you’ll find the village’s iconic stone bridge spanning the water.

As you might imagine, this sleepy village isn’t bustling with activity outside of sightseeing. However, depending on your travel dates, you could catch the semi-monthly market, where locals sell craft goods in the village hall.

There’s also a luxury and vintage car circuit in Upper Castle Combe, though this Cotswolds day trip itinerary doesn’t leave enough time for a day at the races.

Parking in Castle Combe village is nearly non-existent, so you’ll need to utilize the visitor’s car park off of Dunns Lane. From there, it’s a short 10 minute walk into the village center.

Painswick Beacon overlook point in Cotswolds England.

Known as the “Queen of the Cotswolds”, Painswick’s beauty has drawn visitors to the village for hundreds of years. Compared to the other places on this Cotswolds day trip itinerary, Painswick is a fairly large village, with multiple shops, restaurants, and activities for visitors.

If you love old churches, you’ll be delighted by St. Mary’s, the 15th century church that stands at the center of Painswick. And the village’s high street is home to several half-timbered buildings that seem plucked straight from a storybook.

Depending on how much time you have, you could even explore the Painswick Rococo Garden, a rare example of the style in England.

For those on a Cotswolds driving tour, there’s a car park on Stamages Lane with numerous spaces. It’s right on the edge of the village center, offering easy access to Painswick’s retail and residential areas.

Once you’ve finished exploring the village proper, head up the B4073 to Painswick Beacon . This spectacular hilltop offers breathtaking views over Severn Valley.

On a clear day, it’s even possible to see the distant mountains of Wales. Personally, I believe this overlook point is what makes Painswick one of the best Cotswold villages to visit.

RELATED: How to Travel Keswick England’s Stunning Latrigg Walk

There’s a car park just off of B4073 for the Beacon, though it’s also possible to walk 30 minutes from the village to the overlook point. But if you’re trying to see the Cotswolds in one day, I recommend driving there.

From the car park, you’ll find an open (and windy!) green space with a few picnic tables. There are excellent views to be had from here, though don’t head back just yet.

Continue north along the edge of the golf course, and you’ll come upon a somewhat steep path. Follow it uphill for a few minutes, and you’ll reach the amazing overlook point pictured at the top of this section!

Save me for later!

Collage of shopping street, stone mansion, red postbox, and small cottage, with text overlay - "One Day Cotswolds Itinerary".

Frankly, I think the award for prettiest villages in the Cotswolds should be a tie between Upper and Lower Slaughter. Once you get over the ominous name and explore the area, I’m sure the Slaughters will capture your heart, too!

Straddling the River Eye, Lower Slaughter is one of the most photogenic places I’ve ever visited.

The old Parish of St. Mary stands at the entrance, with a beautiful willow tree and ancient graveyard. Classic honeyed stone cottages sit along the water’s edge, with vibrant flowers bursting from window boxes and pots.

It’s certainly worthy of a spot on your UK travel bucket list .

And as you follow the river bend, you’ll come upon the Lower Slaughter Museum , which has an adjoining shop and a water wheel out back! There are even some iconic red phone booths scattered throughout the village, though most contain defibrillators rather than pay phones.

After you’ve soaked up all the charm in Lower Slaughter, we’ll continue this Cotswolds day trip in Upper Slaughter. Fortunately, it’s an easy 15 minute walk between the two villages. Simply leave your car in one of the street parking spaces in Lower Slaughter, and head up Becky Hill.

The walk itself takes you through a lovely tunnel of trees, past a horse pasture, and in front of the grand Upper Slaughter Manor .

This gorgeous estate brings to mind scenes from Pride & Prejudice and Downton Abbey . Sadly it’s only open to the public a few weeks each summer, so you’ll have to enjoy it from a distance.

Just past the manor lies Upper Slaughter. This area is mainly residential, with classic cottages, wooden gates, and blooming rose bushes. The pretty St. Peter’s Church stands at the northern edge of the village, where the river forms the border.

Many of these cottages are holiday lets, so if you decide to extend your day trip to Cotswolds England, this would be a pretty place to stay.

RELATED: 9 Romantic Lake District Breaks for Couples

A Cotswolds day trip to Chipping Campden high street with shoppers walking down sidewalk.

We’ll round out this Cotswolds day trip itinerary in Chipping Campden, near the northern border of the region.

The village’s adorable high street makes it a popular destination for Cotswold breaks. And its selection of restaurants and pubs is ideal for having dinner after a long day of travel.

Chipping Campden is the largest village on this Cotswolds itinerary, but it’s very walkable, especially if you park near the Market Hall.

Speaking of which, this 15th century building’s beautiful arches and honey-colored stone are protected by the National Trust. The market is still active, with locals selling artisan goods and food items.

Past the northern end of the long high street, St. James’s Church sits amidst an open field. The area is a peaceful contrast to the more bustling village center. You might even spot some grazing sheep during your visit!

Google Maps snapshot of Cotswolds day trip itinerary map

Click here to view the full interactive map!

Street view of Cotswolds village on a hill overlooking countryside.

Here are a few words of wisdom to help make your Cotswolds self drive tour a success:

  • As noted above, there’s limited parking in most Cotswolds villages. If there’s not a dedicated car park, or the car park is full, you’ll need to look for street parking just outside the village center. Some residential areas are permit parking only, so be sure to check posted signs before you walk away from your car.
  • Although country drives are lovely, the roads are quite narrow. You’ll find that most roads are hardly wide enough for two cars, so be prepared to pull off onto the shoulder/grass when crossing paths with other drivers.
  • Roads in England aren’t very well marked, with signs posted on the sides of buildings or not at all. It’s best to rely on GPS or even a local map when navigating the Cotswolds.
  • Cell reception can be spotty out here, so I recommend putting your next destination into GPS while you’re still in the previous village. Google Maps will keep giving you driving directions even if you lose your data connection.

My Favorite UK Travel Planning Books

These books win my travel blogger Seal of Approval for vacation planning:

  • Rick Steves Great Britain
  • Lonely Planet: Great Britain’s Best Trips
  • Fodor’s Essential Great Britain: with the Best of England, Scotland & Wales

Upper Slaughter Manor, a must-see on a Cotswolds day trip itinerary

If you’re looking to extend your Cotswolds day trip itinerary, here are a few other places to put on your agenda.

  • Bibury : Water, foliage, and stone cottages give Bibury a Hobbit  shire-like feel, and this National Trust area is home to one of England’s most photographed streets.
  • Winchcombe : This charming village in the northwest is home to a heritage station of the Cotswolds Steam Railway, which travels between Broadway village and the Cheltenham Racecourse.
  • Moreton-in-Marsh : With direct trains from London Paddington Station, this cozy village is the perfect city break for those seeking country walks and amazing food–no car required!
  • Blenheim Palace:  If you love grand English country estates, visiting Blenheim Palace is a must. This stunning birthplace of Winston Churchill is filled with opulent state rooms and is surrounded by sprawling formal gardens and open green space.
  • Stratford-upon-Avon : Though not technically in the Cotswolds, Shakespeare’s home town is a short drive from Chipping Campden and is a must-see for any fan of the Bard. It’s also an easy day trip from London by train !

RELATED: 5 Ways to Visit Stonehenge For Free

Where to Stay for Cotswold Breaks

Cotswolds day trip itinerary house stay with red and green ivy growing on side.

In order to see the Cotswolds in one day, you’ll want to spend the previous night either within the area itself, or in a neighboring city. If you decide to do this Cotswolds day trip after some London sightseeing , you’ll need to wake up extremely early or cut out one of the villages.

Cotswold breaks are popular with Brits and international travelers alike, so it’s best to book your accommodation well in advance . You won’t find many typical hotels out here.

Instead, expect to stay in a traditional inn, bed and breakfast, or cottage rental.

Bath is an excellent place to spend the night, as you’ll find a wider range of accommodation and only be a half hour’s drive from the start of this Cotswolds day trip itinerary.

Just look at these cute flats and cottages in the city!

Bath is also a fantastic destination in its own right, so you could spend a day exploring the old Roman city before heading off the next morning.

For a beautiful traditional stay in the heart of the Cotswolds, I recommend The Amberley Inn .

Everything about our stay there was lovely, from the beautifully-appointed rooms to the stunning country views from the windows. In the morning, cows come out to graze just across from the inn, making it feel like a true escape to the country.

I think these are the best Cotswold villages to visit in one day. If you have other suggestions, let me know in the comments section!

2 thoughts on “A Perfectly Charming Cotswolds Day Trip Itinerary”

Great blog, thank you. I manage a hotel in Chipping Campden, although I am not lucky enough to live there, it is a delight to drive to the beautiful town every day. I feel more a part of the community there than I do in my home town. Craig

This for sure will give you an amazing day out in the cotswolds! I love your ideas a lot, ands the photos are beautiful!

Thank you for sharing about this amazing location.

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A Lady in London

A Lady in London

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Lady’s Itinerary for 2 Days in Bath and the Cotswolds

Today I want to share my itinerary for 2 days in Bath and the Cotswolds with you. This part of England is rife with beautiful streets, picture-pretty villages, and scenic countryside. From the ancient Roman highlights of Bath to the chocolate-box cottages in the Cotswolds, there’s a lot to love about this area. My itinerary will show you the best places to go.

Bath and the Cotswolds

Bath and the Cotswolds

I’m visiting Bath and the Cotswolds with a friend. We’re going to spend one day in Bath and one day in the Cotswolds, and we want to see the best of both places.

Bath Street Corner

How to Get to Bath and the Cotswolds

Given it’s easier to get around the Cotswolds by car than by public transport, we rent a car at Heathrow and drive out to Somerset on the morning of our first day. We can’t wait to see what’s in store for us.

Castle Combe Street in the Cotswolds

Where to Stay in Bath

We arrive in Bath after the 2-hour drive from London and check into our hotel, The Yard in Bath . It’s a boutique luxury hotel with a stylish lobby lounge and cozy guest rooms.

Hotel Lobby in Bath, Somerset

Our room features a king-size bed and all the amenities we could ask for, including breakfast delivered straight to our door in the morning. The staff is friendly and welcoming, and there’s a great atmosphere.

The location is ideal, too. It’s a 5-minute walk from the Royal Crescent and less than 10 minutes from the Roman Baths. If you’re interested in following in our footsteps, you can book a room here .

The Yard in Bath Hotel

After getting settled in, we start our trip to Bath and the Cotswolds with lunch at The Scallop Shell, a seafood restaurant just down the street from The Yard .

Everything from fish cakes to skate wing goes down a treat, and the meal gives us energy to explore the highlights of the city .

Fish Cake in Bath

We start at the Roman Baths, the remains of an ancient Roman thermae and temple complex that dates back to the first few decades of Roman rule in Britain.

It’s a huge complex, and we’re amazed to see pools, artifacts, and architectural features as we walk through it. I’ve been here before on a Bath day trip , and I never get tired of taking in the historic atmosphere.

Roman Baths in Bath, England

From the Roman Baths we peer into the Pump Room, one of my favorite Jane Austen sites in England . A neo-classical salon, this fashionable meeting place featured in her novels Northanger Abbey and Persuasion .

Bath Abbey

From the Pump Room it’s a short walk to Bath Abbey, the city’s famous church. Its fan-vaulted ceilings get me excited every time, and I can’t help looking up to admire them as we walk through the hallowed halls.

Bath Abbey Interior

After visiting the abbey, we walk over to Pulteney Bridge and through the golden streets of Bath to get to The Circus and the Royal Crescent.

These two places are known for their Georgian terraced townhouses, which feature stunning Ionic columns. They’re some of the most photographed places in Bath.

Royal Crescent, Bath

When late afternoon comes, we drive up to Alexandra Park to take in some of the best views of Bath. It’s my first time up here, and I love how we can see the whole city from the viewing area.

Bath View from Alexandra Park in Somerset

Back in the heart of Bath, we have cocktails at The Yard before going to dinner at Oak. This vegetarian restaurant in Bath is a favorite of mine, and I go every time I visit the city.

We dine in one of restaurant’s intimate rooms and enjoy a feast of small plates. Everything from seared Hispi cabbage with caramelized apple to potato pave with sauteed mushrooms is delicious. The service is excellent, too.

Bath Restaurant

The Cotswolds

The next morning we continue our trip to Bath and the Cotswolds by hopping in the car and driving into the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Our plan is to visit a few Cotswolds villages and a few places just outside the Cotswolds in Wiltshire.

Castle Combe, Cotswolds

Bradford-on-Avon

Our first stop is Bradford-on-Avon. This picturesque town is on the edge of the Cotswolds facing the River Avon.

Dating back to ancient Roman times, Bradford-on-Avon features pretty riverfront scenery and hills. The Bridge Tea Rooms has one of the most photographed facades in the area, too.

Bradford on Avon Tearoom

From there we continue our trip to Bath and the Cotswolds by driving northeast through places like Holt to get to Lacock.

This is one of the prettiest villages in Wiltshire , and it’s been used as a filming location for everything from the Harry Potter movies to Downton Abbey .

Lacock Shop

We walk around Lacock, admiring the pretty cottages and Lacock Abbey before stopping for a pub lunch at The George Inn .

We sit by the fireplace and admire walls full of photos of everyone from Daniel Radcliffe to Judi Dench as we tuck into savory pies and fish and chips.

Pub Food in Lacock

Back in the car, our trip to Bath and the Cotswolds continues in Corsham. This historic market town in Wiltshire lies at the southeastern edge of the Cotswolds.

It was used as a filming location for TV series and movies set in England like Poldark , The Suspicions of Mr Whicher , and The Remains of the Day .

Corsham Street in England

Corsham’s streets are packed with colorful facades and traditional pubs (and peacocks!), and the classic Bath stone buildings are beautiful.

Corsham Shops in England

We admire the exterior of Corsham Court, a Saxon royal manor house that’s now home to a picture gallery with a collection of important paintings.

The gallery and gardens were designed in the 18th century by Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown, the most celebrated English landscape architect in history.

Street in Corsham, England

Castle Combe

From Corsham it’s a short drive through villages like Biddestone to get to Castle Combe, the next stop on our itinerary for Bath and the Cotswolds. This is one of the prettiest villages in the Cotswolds, and I’m excited to be back.

Castle Combe, Wiltshire

The high street is lined with quintessential cottages and tearooms, and the By Brook river is a great spot for photos.

We walk through the streets to take it all in, then drive past the village’s stunning hotel, The Manor House , before heading out.

Castle Combe, Cotswolds

From Castle Combe we drive through more of the area, stopping at villages like Badminton before ending our trip to Bath and the Cotswolds in the market town of Malmesbury.

Located on the edge of the Cotswolds, Malmesbury is thought to be the first capital of England. It was also an important center of learning in the Middle Ages.

The real treat here is Malmesbury Abbey, a rare survivor of Henry VIII’s Dissolution of the Monasteries in the 16th century.

Built in the 12th century, the abbey houses everything from King Athelstan’s tomb to the crest of Henry VII, an illuminated 15th-century Bible, and a stunning Norman porch.

Malmesbury Abbey

We admire the abbey before hopping in the car for the drive back to London. It’s been a great trip, and a fun way to explore some of the most beautiful places in England .

Houses in Bath, England

I hope you’ve enjoyed this itinerary for Bath and the Cotswolds, and that you get a chance to do it yourself someday. It’s an amazing trip to take, and a fun way to travel in Britain.

If you want more inspiration, take a look at my blog posts about the Cotswolds without a car , independent shops and restaurants in Bath , and a weekend in Bath . Happy travels!

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Cotswolds Road Trip: 2 days in The Cotswolds

Last Updated on September 16, 2023 by Lauren Allen

If you’re planning a Cotswolds road trip, chances are you’ll be in the area for a few days. Spending at least 2 days in The Cotswolds is a must as there are so many charming areas to explore. This road trip guide will talk you through everything you need to know to plan the perfect trip!

Read more: The best places to visit in The Cotswolds

Table of Contents

How to plan your ideal Cotswolds road trip:

Decide on your must-see locations.

Deciding on places to visit in The Cotswolds will depend on personal preferences and interests. If you are looking to snap some great content for Instagram, head to Castle Combe. If you would prefer to hit up some pubs and cafes, head to Burford. Once you have decided exactly what you want to do during your trip, it will be easier to figure out which locations need to be on your list.

Plan your ideal Cotswolds road trip route

Once you know where you want to go, find a map of The Cotswolds online. This will help you plan the best route to maximise your time exploring. For example, it wouldn’t make sense to go from Bibury to Castle Combe if you also plan on visiting Burford on the same day.

Read more: How to get from London to The Cotswolds

burford

Figure out where to stay

Similarly, figuring out where to stay in The Cotswolds will also depend on where you want to visit. However, staying quiet central is recommended. Towns such as Cirencester and Stroud are located less than a 45-minute drive from the key hotspots that need to be on your Cotswolds bucket list.

Alternatively, there is no need to base yourself in one location. By planning ahead, you will be able to figure out your ideal route based on your interests and what makes sense geographically. Once you have done that, you can book accommodation at your last stop each day. Although this doesn’t allow much time for spontaneous stops, it means not going back on yourself and adding extra miles to your journey. Which would you prefer?

How to spend 2 days in The Cotswolds:

Morning: The first stop on your Cotswolds road trip will be Bibury . From here, you will be making your way across the region to hit up many of the other hot spots in The Cotswolds. Upon arrival, head to The Swan Hotel for breakfast. Once you have curbed your hunger, take some time to admire the picture-perfect street of Arlington Row. After snapping far too many Instagram worthy photos, go for a leisurely walk around the village. End your visit with a pit-stop at the trout farm (if that’s your cup of tea) before heading to the next stop.

cotswolds-road-trip-2-days-in-the-cotswolds-bibury

Afternoon: Kick off your afternoon in Burford to grab some lunch. This town is full of options when it comes to places to eat. As well as charming bakeries, there are several pubs and restaurants to chose from. After treating yourself to a delicious meal, spend an hour or two hitting up some of the independent shops and art galleries before walking up Burford hill to admire the views. If you are visiting on a clear day, you will be blessed with some of the best views in The Cotswolds!

Next up, spend some time exploring Bourton-on-the-Water . Like Burford, there are some great stores to have a nosy in. Furthermore, this is one of the best villages to visit if you are travelling with kids. This is due to the activities on offer. For example, you can get lost in the Dragonfly Maze, visit Birdland Park and Garden, check out the model village then end your afternoon at the motoring museum.

cotswolds-road-trip-2-days-in-the-cotswolds-bourton-on-the-water

Evening: Known as the capital of The Cotswolds, Cirencester is one of the most convenient towns to stay in if you’re visiting the area. This is due to its central location. Beyond that, there are also some great British pubs. This makes it one of the best places to spend the first evening of your Cotswolds road trip. If you fancy a drink and a traditional pub meal, consider booking a table at The Golden Cross. It’s the perfect place to relax after a long day of exploring!

Morning: Start day two early in Castle Combe . As one of the most beautiful villages in England, you will want to spend an hour or two wandering around the village and surrounding area. Enjoy the scenery as you take in rows of charming houses, traditional-looking pubs and picture-perfect views. Before heading back on the road, stop for coffee and cake at The Little Picnic Shop or The Old Stables. Both are highly rated for friendliness and quality of food.

2-days-in-the-cotswolds-road-trip-castle-combe

Next, jump back in the car and make your way to Lacock for a quick stop. Whilst there, spend some time exploring the village, visiting the Abbey and checking out the Fox Talbot Museum of Photography.

Afternoon: To see the most iconic church in The Cotswolds, drive to Stow-on-the-Wold. St. Edwards church is well-known for its Instagram worthy doorway making it well worth a visit. After snapping a few photos, spend some time exploring the surrounding area. Despite there not being a ton to do in this charming town, you can visit the market square, browse in some shops and stop off at a nice pub!

Last up, end your 2 days in The Cotswolds by visiting Broadway . It’s here that you will find some of the best views in The Cotswolds . From Broadway Tower, you can overlook miles of fields and beautiful scenery. On a nice day, the views are honestly breathtaking. You will not want to miss it!

Evening: Once you can drag yourself away from the incredible sights, drive back down to town for a meal and drinks. Some of the best places to eat in Broadway include Russel’s Fish and Chips and The Broadway Indian Restaurant. End your evening at The Swan to rest your feet and have a few drinks.

the-best-places-to-visit-in-the-cotswolds-broadway

Is 2 days in The Cotswolds enough?

With 2 days in The Cotswolds, it’s definitely possible to see a lot of the most charming locations. You’ll have time to wander around some of the prettiest villages in England, admire some amazing countryside views and hit up some tourist attractions.

However, it is worth noting that 48 hours is not enough. If possible, I would advise spending around five days in The Cotswolds. With so many things to do in the area, you will never get bored. Plus, there are also heaps of unique shops, country pubs and cute little cafes to check out.

By spending more than a couple of days in the area, you will allow yourself to slow down and truly appreciate your time. The Cotswolds have been named an area of outstanding beauty for a reason. Don’t rush your trip!

What can you see in The Cotswolds in one day?

If you are unable to spend at least 2 days in The Cotswolds, visiting on a day trip is still worth doing. Whilst you will be unable to see everything, you can still get a feel for this incredible part of England. With just one day, you will need to narrow down your list of things to do.

Personally, I would recommend starting your day in Castle Combe then heading up to Bibury, the lavender fields (if they are open), Broadway and Bourton on the Water. If you start your day early and end your evening by grabbing some drinks at your last stop, you can cover a lot of The Cotswolds highlights.

Yes, a trip like this will feel rushed. However, if it’s the only chance you’ll have to visit this incredible part of England, you should 100% do it. I promise you won’t regret it.

castle-combe

What is the best time to visit The Cotswolds?

The best time to visit The Cotswolds depends on your personal preferences. If you would like to explore the region with fewer crowds, visit in Spring. During this time, there are fewer visitors. Additionally, the weather is still (mostly) pleasant without being too hot.

Alternatively, Summer is a great time to visit if you would prefer higher temperatures. However, this is when The Cotswolds are at their busiest. Autumn and Winter are still lovely times to visit as the leaves change colour and snowfall becomes more likely. Just be prepared for the weather and wrap up warm!

So, there we have it. A complete guide on how to plan your ideal Cotswolds road trip. I hope this helps you plan the most amazing adventure. If you have any more tips, please feel free to share them in the comments below!

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Lauren Allen

After experiencing her first solo adventure overseas soon after graduating from university, Lauren has discovered a love of solo travel. The countries she visits often fuel ideas for her art and design work, which along with travel tips and guides, she loves to share with other like-minded art and travel enthusiasts on this blog.

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We are planning a two-day journey in the Cotswolds next April. Wondering if it is difficult to park the car when we arrive in a village…

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Have a great trip! I recommend arriving to popular villages early before the crowds as it can be a bit hard (from my experience)

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The only cotswolds itinerary you’ll ever need.

The Only Cotswolds Itinerary You’ll Ever Need

A great way to keep things cheap when you travel is to not travel too far and while that sounds amazingly unexciting, especially if you live in a country like the UK comme moi, it’s actually rather exciting indeed!

(Am I getting old?!)

Because while travelling to the far-flung corners of the globe is marvellous, sometimes it’s also important to open our backdoor, look on our doorstep and realise that’s pretty marvellous too.

So in this vein and with the great British Summer swinging into full action, I decided to head for one of England’s Outstanding Areas of Natural Beauty – the Cotswolds.

And I can certainly attest to its beauty as I hiked, snapped, and “pubbed” my way around this gorgeous part of the country; a part which actually spans 5 counties and is situated near the cities of Gloucester, Oxford, Bath and Bristol.

So if you’re looking to do the same with a couple of days to spare on your next trip to the UK, here’s the only Cotswolds itinerary you’ll ever need to ensure you see the best of this beautiful bucolic landscape!

UK, Cotswolds, Towns

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Arriving from London to Morton-in-Marsh

UK, Cotswolds, Rose Cottage

It’s likely you’ll be arriving from London when you’re heading to the Cotswolds and travelling by train.

There’s a couple of stations serviced from London Paddington, but probably the most convenient to start your time, and possible base yourself in, is Moreton-in-Marsh – a classic Cotswolds village.

With a historic town square and plenty of tearooms around, relaxing here and getting into the swing of things is a good way to kick off your Cotswolds itinerary.

If you’re lucky enough to arrive on a Saturday, you may just get a chance to check out the French market like we did.

Otherwise, this heritage town boasts some good railway history, war memorials, a historic church and character-filled pubs – The Bell Inn has a good beer garden FYI!

Cotswolds Itinerary Day 1

UK, Cotswolds Way, Hiking Sign

As a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, there’s no question the Cotswolds has some stunning scenery and getting outside to enjoy it is definitely one of the best things to do here.

And there’s few better ways to take it all in, along with lungfuls of fresh air, than by walking in this classic English countryside.

With more trails to hike than you can shake a stick at, this was one of my favourite things to do in the Cotswolds and, from Morton-in-Marsh, you’ve got lots of options.

Coming highly recommended, hiking from Morton-in-Marsh to Stow-on-the-Wold and then onto Bourton-on-the-Water, not only gives you enough hyphenated place names to last you a lifetime, but is a beautiful full day’s worth of walking that will lead you across rolling hills, over stiles and past plenty of fluffy sheep.

Both Stow-on-the-Wold and Bourton-on-the-Water are some of the best Cotswolds towns to wander around and from gorgeous, oldy-worldy shops to lovely pub gardens, stopping here for lunch, dinner, afternoon tea or a beer is all an important part of the experience!

Borzoi Bookshop (a wonderfully long-running, independent bookstore), Stow Town Coffee (an independent micro-roastery) and The Porch House (one of the oldest Inns in England dating from 947 AD) were 3 of my firm favourites.

Cotswold Itinerary Day 2

UK, Cotswolds, Winchcombe

With another day in this gorgeous part of the UK, it’s time to learn more about the history of this area, much of which dates back to Roman times and beyond.

The classic towns of Winchcombe and Broadway have plenty of historical sites to explore.

Particularly worthy of a visit are Broadway Tower and Sudeley Castle, which you can stroll up to and around for free.

Sudeley Castle was built in the 15 th C and is one of the only castles in England still in residence.

Broadway Tower offers stunning views from its elevated position and incredible photo opps as it rises from the green countryside around.

Both market towns of Winchcombe and Broadway deserve a visit too.

The former has a very quaint museum, while the second was my favourite town in the whole of the Cotswolds with its wonderful delis and quintessential atmosphere.

Both of these towns also typify so much of what is special about the Cotswolds – thatched-roof cottages, rose climbing gardens and golden stone buildings nestle, as if in a time warp, next to fields yellow with rapeseed and rolling hills filled with bleating sheep.

Local food produce dominates menus in independent restaurants, local real ale fills the pubs and everywhere there’s a pride and a celebration of rural England.

Gets my vote every day!

UK, Cotswolds, Views

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How to Get to the Cotswolds?

UK, Cotswolds, Yellow Fields

Driving to the Cotswolds from across the UK is easy and straightforward with lots of good motorway connections.

Alternatively, you can use trains or coaches to get to the area, which is especially easy from London, where many direct and quick routes make things straightforward.

As always, I use Trainline to book my UK coach and rail travel, as they compare a huge range of transport options, as well as use split-fare features to get you the best deal on tickets.

Their handy app also allows you to track your journey, as well as save all your tickets in one handy place – winning!

How to Get Around?

UK, Cotswolds, Garlic

Hiring a car is probably the best option if you want to explore all of the things on this Cotswold itinerary because public transport in this rural county can be a bit thin on the ground.

If you’re looking to hire a car in England, Thrifty Car Hire offer some very competitive rates.

Walking is of course, a great way to get around too in this flat and quiet countryside – although it will take a bit longer this way!

Alternatively, if you want to take a tour to the Cotswolds, that will show you some of the top highlights in the region without you having to fuss about hiring a car or finding a bus, check out these top options:

  • Oxford, Stratford & Cotswolds Day Trip from London
  • From Oxford: Cotswold Towns & Villages (small group tour)
  • From London: Full-Day Tour of the Cotswolds
  • Oxford, Stratford & Cotswolds Villages Small-Group Tour

Where to Stay in the Cotswolds?

UK, Cotswolds, Cottage Flowers

Stow-on-the-Wold, Winchcombe and Broadway all have a heap of accommodation options.

And some smaller spots, like Moreton-0n-the-Marsh and Chipping Campden, also have some lovely choices too.

Personally, I’d choose any of these spots over the larger cities of Cheltenham and Gloucester, which sit just outside the official Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty that is the Cotswolds.

Choices for accommodation include hotels and guesthouses, as well as boutique rooms over historic pubs and even whole rental apartments.

The number of people in your party will probably have the biggest on what you opt for, but here’s my top picks:

  • Maugersbury Park Suite – top rated Bed and Breakfast in Stow on the Wold
  • Old Kiln Inn – beautifully decorated rooms in Shipston-on-Stour
  • East House – a stunning hotel property in Broadway town centre
  • The Kings Hotel – very popular, comfortable and convenient accommodation in Chipping Campden

When to Visit?

UK, Somerset, Flower

There’s no question in my mind, the best time to visit the Cotswolds is during the summer season, when the UK’s good weather allows you to get the nicest experience from your time there, especially if you want to enjoy some hiking and rolling countryside views.

The only problem with the summer and the weekend, is that many of the county’s top attractions are the busiest then too, so do be warned!

If you have the option to visit some of Cotswolds’s most popular spots on a weekday, or outside of school holidays, then I’d advise this, as parking and getting some good snaps without a ton of other people in-frame will be a lot easier at these times!

Cotswold Packing Essentials

UK, Isle of Wight, Coffee

And now here’s my list of the top 5 packing essentials you shouldn’t head to this beautiful of England without…

#1 A Good Camera

No doubt you’re going to be snapping like crazy in this amazing region and need to ensure you have a good camera to do the place justice.

I love my Sony A6000 and GoPro , which are both light, compact and great for travel.

#2 Decent Walking Shoes

No point coming this far and not being able to enjoy a walk in the wonderful countryside.

Get prepared therefore and ensure you have a decent pair of walking shoes – these cross trainers from New Balance are ideal (and totally stylish) for the job.

#3 Light Waterproof Jacket

Whatever the time of year, you have to remember this is England after all, a country in which the heavens can open at any point!

Don’t get caught out there and ensure you have a good lightweight and waterproof jacket with you. This North Face one is perfect.

#4 Compact Hiking Day Pack

I never go on any UK trip without a sturdy backpack to ensure I’ve got everything I need and that the weight is equally distributed across my back and shoulders.

This super featherweight Kompressor from Marmot is my go-to, because it folds down to nothing and is water-resistant – ideal for those sudden showers.

#5 Portable Charger

And finally, I would never head off anywhere without my trusty Anker Portable Charger , which keeps my phone and camera batteries full all day every day, so I can take all the snaps (and look at all the maps) I need!

Want to Carry On the Adventure?

England, Stonehenge, Stones

If you’re still keen on more staycation splendour after Cotswolds (and, quite frankly, why wouldn’t you be?!), then you have some more great options on the doorstep.

The Bristol and Bath area really is just a short hop, skip and a jump away, as is Oxford , and all offer historic charm by the bucket load.

In the other direction, the beauty of South Wales isn’t a million miles away either, and both The Gower Peninsula and Brecon Beacons National Parks are treasures here you shouldn’t miss!

Alternatively, you could go on to explore the county of Wiltshire with the Cathedral city of Salisbury (home to a copy of the Magna Carta) and the amazing structure of Stonehenge being the 2 highlights in my opinion.

Or, if you fancy a bit of Somerset, then the small and delightful city Wells or dramatic scenery of Cheddar Gorge are waiting for you!

PIN IT TO PINTEREST!

Travelling to the Cotswolds in England? Here's the Perfect Itinerary

And that’s the only Cotswolds itinerary you’ll ever need!

Trust me, just a few days in this wonderful part of the UK will have you falling (back) in love with this country and its countryside.

cotswolds 2 day trip

Creator of Big World Small Pockets, Stephanie Parker is a travel addict! Originally from Jersey in the Channel Islands, Stephanie adventures the world collecting tips, advice and stories, to share with a smile

3 thoughts on “ The Only Cotswolds Itinerary You’ll Ever Need ”

cotswolds 2 day trip

This for sure is an amazing cotswold itinerary! I’m a resident of The Cotswolds and its amazing to see other peoples ideas as there is sooo much to explore here! The photos are amazing! Thank you!

cotswolds 2 day trip

Thanks Bea and how wonderful you live in the Cotswolds… what a spot! Do you have a fav village or town there? I’d love to hear! Best, Steph 🙂

cotswolds 2 day trip

Hi Bea, I’m Sonia, I saw you were a resident in the Cotswolds & if you can spare a moment I would love some advice. I am from Western Australia & will be visiting the UK in August. I am staying in Oxford for a few days then want to visit your area & will arrive by train. Whilst the internet is a mine field of information , I think I’m confusing myself. Can you advise which is the best place to locate myself where I can hire a car ? Kind regards

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Groovy Mashed Potatoes - Travel Blog

Groovy Mashed Potatoes - Travel Blog

Unique travel experiences, fun itineraries & offbeat places to help you plan your dream trip

2 Day Cotswolds Itinerary for a Tranquil Nature Escape

2 Day Cotswolds Itinerary for a Tranquil Nature Escape

After spending a few weeks in London, we were excited to escape the bustling city for the peaceful English countryside. The picturesque villages, gentle rolling hills and grazing sheep sounded something of a fairytale I once read as a kid.

We spent 2 days in the Cotswolds and it was everything we imagined it would be for a calming and relaxing experience. We stayed near Broadway, a quaint village known as the 'Jewel of the Cotswolds".

If you're looking to unwind and see the highlights of the region, our 2 day Cotswolds itinerary is for you. You will spend two days in the Cotswolds exploring the charming village of Broadway, resting at your cozy retreat and walking through meadows with beautiful pastoral views.

Best time to visit the Cotswolds

cotswolds 2 day trip

The best time to visit the Cotswolds is between April-September. These months have the highest average hours of sunshine and the weather is pleasant. From October - March you will have a higher chance of rain and colder temperatures.

Where to stay in Broadway

cotswolds 2 day trip

With over 25 towns and villages in the Cotswolds to choose from, it can feel overwhelming. We chose to stay near Broadway since it ticked off all the boxes for a quintessential Cotswolds experience. The 'Jewel of the Cotswolds' is charming, yet large enough to have a good selection of restaurants, cafes, shops and unique hotels. The historic village also has nice walking paths through the countryside that inspired famous artists like Oscar Wilde and Claude Monet.  

When looking for a place to stay, we recommend looking for one that has amenities that will add to your experience. Most important to us was a luxurious spa and a nice common area with a fireplace where we could play cards and board games.

cotswolds 2 day trip

Here are some more of our top picks near Broadway:

  • Best for location: Abbots Grange . The gorgeous manor house is set on an acreage with views of the peaceful countryside and is only a few minute walk away from the main strip of Broadway. The adult's only hotel is also the oldest dwelling in the village.
  • Best value: Lowerfield Farm . The country hotel sits in the picturesque countryside and offers elegant rooms with scenic views. Rooms are a great value starting at £110, but you are a 6 minute drive from the village.

How to get to the Cotswolds

The quickest and easiest way to get to the Cotswolds from London is by taking the train . Taking the train is also easy from most major cities in England.

To get to the village of Broadway, you will need to take the train to Moreton-in-Marsh. From there, it's a 16 minute taxi to Broadway. We arranged a taxi through our hotel, which cost £20 for the ride. We highly recommend reserving your taxi in advance. We just gave our train arrival time and he was there when we arrived.

🚆 Train distances to Moreton-in-Marsh:

  • From London : ~1 hour 21 minutes
  • From Birmingham : ~1 hours 12 minutes
  • From Manchester : ~3 hours 18 minutes
  • From Leeds : ~3 hours 34 minutes
  • From Brighton : ~ 3 hours 10 minutes

2 Day Cotswolds Itinerary

Day 1 - Settle into your cozy retreat and unwind

cotswolds 2 day trip

Today you will be arriving at your hotel. Once you settle in, take this time to enjoy the amenities and unwind. Bring cards or board games to play by the fireplace, read a book in the garden, or relax at the spa.

cotswolds 2 day trip

We recommend eating dinner at The Back Garden at Dormy House even if you're not staying there. The sophisticated restaurant has a lovely atmosphere and focusses on using local ingredients, like veggies from their own garden. The food is superb, especially their foie gras!

Day 2 - Walk through the beautiful countryside and explore Broadway village

cotswolds 2 day trip

The best way to experience the scenic countryside is by walking through it! There are many grassy trails you can take through the rolling hills. We were in awe by the pastoral views. From Dormy House, you can take a wonderful walk up to Broadway Tower and down the hill to Broadway. Broadway Tower is an iconic landmark of the area that was built in 1798. The structure was thought up by famous landscape architect, Capability Brown, and constructed for aesthetic purposes.

On your walk you will take a small ascent up to the tower where you will have sweeping view of Broadway village below. Along the way you will see sheep grazing in the pastures. We saw a little lamb scratching himself on a tree, it was so cute! After you reach the tower it's an easy descent down to the enchanting village of Broadway. The walk shouldn't take you more than 1 hour.

cotswolds 2 day trip

Broadway has many restaurants, boutiques and cafes to discover. Walk down the main strip called High Street and see what you find. Stop in at Broadway Deli for lunch. They have a back garden with a playful decor of colourful chairs and tables. Afterwards, don't miss popping into the vintage candy store Hamiltons to take some sweets back with you to your hotel. Candy stores feel so nostalgic!

Enjoy dinner back at your hotel and spend the rest of your evening relaxing by the fireplace with a good book and some wine.

Start planning your trip to the Cotswolds

  • 🚆 Book your train: compare rates with Trainline (save an average of 61% when you book in advance)
  • 🧳 Accommodation: Booking.com is our go-to for finding places to stay. Sort by top reviewed.
  • 🛫 Book your flight to England: use Skyscanner to compare flights across different airlines (we recommend booking direct with the airline however).
  • 🏥 Travel insurance: World Nomads . Already traveling? You can purchase insurance with World Nomads while you're abroad. A 48-hour waiting period just applies for coverage.

Combine your trip to the Cotswolds with a stay in London. See our list of 10 unique things to do in London and 5 day London itinerary

Save and pin this 2 day Cotswolds Itinerary for later:

cotswolds 2 day trip

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Rays of Adventure

Exploring the Cotswolds in two days

Quintessential english villages with honey coloured cottages and rolling hills make the cotswolds one of the top places in the uk to visit. check out my guide to exploring the cotswolds in two days., disclaimer: some of the links below are affiliate links, which means if you click on the link and make a purchase, i’ll get a small commission at no extra cost to you. please note that all sales are processed by the linked website, not rays of adventure, so you’ll be subject to their privacy policy., how to get to the cotswolds.

Located in the South West of England, the Cotswolds are easily accessible from much of the UK. Some of the closest major cities are Bristol, Bath and Cheltenham – these are all great cities which are worth a visit themselves and you can do the Cotswolds as a day trip. The Cotswolds are also easily accessible from London, and you can take the train for a trip exploring the Cotswolds in two days. Nearby train stations include Kemble, Stroud and Cheltenham. You can check out train times and prices here .

Exploring the Cotswolds in two days

Once you get to the Cotswolds, I’d definitely recommend hiring a car (or driving yourself if you live in the UK). Although there are bus services between many of the bigger villages, the buses aren’t great if you want to visit several villages in the same day. Bus services can be infrequent and spasmodic, so you’ll be quite limited in what you can do each day. If you’ve got a car, you can have the freedom to explore at your own pace and visit as many towns and villages as you like. Just be aware that some of the roads through villages can be narrow and windy, and parking areas can be busy – so a small car is best.

Exploring the Cotswolds in two days

Best villages and places to explore

There are so many villages and walks to explore in the Cotswolds. Here are my top recommendations for two days in the Cotswolds to get a flavour of this lovely area. If you’re looking for some longer walks, make sure you check out this great guide to walks in the Cotswolds with some great maps as well (affiliate).

cotswolds 2 day trip

Bibury is one of the most famous villages in the Cotswolds. The pretty houses, especially those along Arlington Row, look like they’re from another century and it really feels like you’ve gone back in time as you walk along. The river at Bibury is lovely too, and the nearby trout farm is great for spotting fish swimming in the clear water. The downside to Bibury’s popularity is that it can get busy – there is limited parking along by the river which can get very crowded, and the path along the river and up Arlington Row can get really crowded with everyone wanting to take the perfect social media selfie. However, if you visit at a quieter time of the day or off season, you can really appreciate the beauty of this small but charming village. You can check out my guide for how to spend a day in Bibury .

Bibury in the Cotswolds

2. Bourton-on-the-Water

The village of Bourton-on-the-Water, as its name suggests, lies alongside the river, giving gorgeous views all year round. This village has a lot more attractions than just looking at the pretty houses. You can visit the Motor Museum, marvel at the birds in Birdland, or pretend you’re a giant as you walk around the cute Model Village. Check out some of the opening times of these attractions here . I’d definitely recommend parking outside the centre of the village as the centre can get really busy, particularly in the summer.

Bourton-on-the-water in the Cotswolds

3. Moreton-in-Marsh

One of the bigger Cotswold Villages, the High Street of Moreton-in-Marsh is stunning and full of lively independent shops and cafes. It’s a great place to explore and spend an afternoon.

Exploring the Cotswolds in two days

4. Upper and Lower Slaughter

One of my favourite walks in the Cotswolds in between Upper and Lower Slaugher. You get great views of the rolling hills of the surrounding countryside. Both of these villages are beautiful as well, with classic Cotswold honey coloured houses and charming river fords.

Upper and Lower Slaughter in the Cotswolds

5. Castle Combe

Situated to the South of the Cotswolds, not too far from Bath, is the famously pretty village of Castle Combe. You might recognise the village centre here, as it’s so often portrayed in pictures of England. It’s such a cute place and really deserves its fame. Plus, there’s the added benefit of a large free car park just outside the village (about 10 minutes walk down to the village), which makes this a really easy village to explore.

Castle Combe village in the Cotswolds

6. Cirencester

Compared to the cute villages surrounding it, the busy town of Cirencester feels a lot more lively. There’s a market outside the Church on weekends, which is a great place to explore unique, locally made gifts and produce. The town has plenty of independent shops and cafes, which are perfect to stop for a traditional English afternoon tea. I’d recommend Jacks, a lovely tearoom with a charming atmosphere, which is a perfect break as you’re exploring the Cotswolds in two days.

Cirencester on market day

7. Stow-on-the-Wold

And another classic Cotswold village that deserves a mention is Stow-on-the-Wold. More pretty houses, cute streets, tea rooms and historic pubs make this another great one to explore. It’s great for a short stop as you’re exploring the Cotswolds in two days.

Exploring the Cotswolds in two days

8. Minster Lovell

On the edge of the Cotswolds near Witney is the lovely village of Minster Lovell. The ruins of the 15th century hall is one of the top attractions here, and it’s free to wander around and read the information boards to learn about the history.

Minster Lovell walk near Oxford

9. Blenheim Palace

Also not too far from Oxford is the stunning Blenheim Palace, which is definitely worth a visit while you’re in the Cotswolds. It’s one of the most famous stately homes in the UK. Blenheim Palace was the birthplace of Winston Churchill and is home to the 12th Duke of Marlborough. You can go inside the house to see the impressive rooms – look at tickets and opening times here . But make sure you leave some time to explore the grounds as well. The lake is particularly lovely, with great views back to the house.

Blenheim Palace walk near Oxford

10. WWT Slimbridge Wetland Centre

Just on the edge of the Cotswolds is the Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust lake at Slimbridge. If you visit in the winter, you’ll see all kinds of birds, ducks, geese and swans which migrate here from far away and spend the winter living here. It’s such a great place to see some wildlife you don’t normally see, and you can pick up a handy guide from reception to help you identify all the birds you’re seeing. My favourites were the Bewicks Swans and Hawaiian Geese (pictured below). Check out the opening times of WWT Slimbridge here .

WWT Slimbridge

Enjoy your time exploring the Cotswolds! Make sure you check out this walking guide for more great days out in the Cotswolds (affiliate). Once you’ve explored these villages, there are so many more places to explore nearby. Check out my walks in Wiltshire , Oxfordshire , Warwickshire and Buckinghamshire to extend your trip.

cotswolds 2 day trip

16 thoughts on “ Exploring the Cotswolds in two days ”

Wow, so much to see in this area!

Such a beautiful part of England to explore! You’re article makes me want to go back! Thanks so much for sharing!

It really is a beautiful part of England, I love exploring the Cotswolds!

I’ve been dreaming about visiting the Cotswolds for a while, so I definitely want to visit it sometime soon. I am saving your guide for the future 🙂

It’s a really lovely area so I hope you’re able to visit soon!

Absolutely love this itinerary for Cotswolds. I have been in the UK so many times yet I have never visited this picturesque part of England. This post has given serious Cotswolds wanderlust now.

The Cotswolds always look SO beautiful. I live in the North West and don’t know the south very well at all but I’d love to go there – it’s just that bit longer to get to and I always end up doing Scotland or the Lakes. Must fix this!

The Cotswolds are definitely worth a visit. But the North of the UK has some great scenery too, I’d love to explore the North more!

I absolutely love this! I lived in England before and I explored very little of what I should have. One of my dream trips is to drive around England and explore different towns. I love this guide, especially Bibury is gorgeous.

I hope you’re able to do your trip around England soon. I love the freedom of having a car and being able to explore all the smaller places in England, there are so many cute towns and villages.

I’ve never visited the Cotswolds but it is firmly on my bucket list. The villages look so charming!

The villages in the Cotswolds are truly beautiful. A great guide worth saving in case I ever get to that part of the world.

Thank you, I hope you’re able to visit soon!

The Cotswolds are on my bucket list, thank you for this detailed guide! Two days seems like a good amount of time to get a feel for the area!

Yeah you can definitely get a good feel for the area in a couple of days and visit some of the most famous villages. I hope you’re able to visit soon!

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The Perfect Weekend Cotswolds Itinerary (2024) + Maps

Weekend in the cotswolds

Table of Contents

This post may contain affiliate links to things like tours, hotels, Amazon associates and products. These help me earn a small commission at no additional charge to you.

I’ve grown up with the Cotswolds on my doorstep so it’s somewhere I know very well. I’m going to share my Cotswolds itinerary so you can spend a perfect weekend in the Cotswolds and get to know it, too! The Cotswolds is a great place for visitors to the UK as it’s so typically British. The rolling hills, old-fashioned cottages and grand stately homes have inspired many books and period dramas. Much of the area hasn’t changed in decades if not centuries and it’s a great place to ditch the city and embrace country bumpkin life.

Even if you’re already used to the charm of England , a weekend in the Cotswolds is the ultimate chance to unwind. There are no cities in the Cotswolds and only a handful of large towns. With plenty of walking routes, it’s easy to get off-grid and see the countryside. For after (or a straight-up alternative), there are cosy pubs and quaint tearooms. Foodies will be in their element.

In a rush? Use my day trip to the Cotswolds from London guide

COTSWOLDS ESSENTIALS Rough Guides The Cotswolds Accommodation: Booking.com Car hire – Rentalcars.com

Read next: The 30 best places to visit in the Cotswolds

What and where are the Cotswolds?

The Cotswolds are located in southwest England between Oxford and Bristol surrounding the Cotswolds Hills. If you’re staying in the Cotswolds, it’s easy to visit both these cities as well as take a scenic day trip to Bath . You can identify the Cotswolds AONB (Area of Natural Beauty) as the area in green on Google Maps. Including towns the Cirencester, Bourton-on-the-Water, Stow-on-the-Wold, the whole Cotswolds region spans more than 2,000km. Plenty of space for adventures!

Cotswolds map

cotswolds 2 day trip

How to get to the Cotswolds

When planning a weekend in the Cotswolds, consider how to get around. While I usually love the ease and convenience of getting around the UK by public transport, the Cotswolds is a place where this isn’t really possible. At one point during my recent trip, I hit ‘public transport’ rather than driving directions on Google and was told (instead of a 30-minute drive) to get a six-hour train journey passing through both Birmingham and Coventry. So you see it’s not catered to those on foot! Travelling by car is the best option for a Cotswold itinerary. If you don’t have one, you could consider arriving by train into Oxford, Cirencester or Cheltenham and hiring one. Rentalcars.com is your best bet.

Exploring the cotswolds

Where to stay in the Cotswolds

Being a large town and having more competitive prices, Cheltenham (on the west side of the Cotswolds) is one of your most affordable options and hotels start at £70 per night. The same can be said for Cirencester. A 15-minute drive outside of the Cotswolds and towards Oxford, smaller town Witney offers similar prices within boutique guesthouses. Both The Fleece (£80pn) and The Blue Boar (£95pn) are lovely. To stay central during your 2 days in the Cotswolds, you may need to stretch the purse strings a tad further. These places would be on my wish list if I needed somewhere to stay: Inn for All Seasons, Burford  – this 16th-century coaching house looks like it has lots of character as well as cosy, luxurious rooms and some gourmet dining options (from £120 per night). Russell’s of Broadway – a beautiful black and white timber-framed hotel with quintessential Cotswold style. The enormous luxury bedrooms range from £120-£250 per night and the award-winning modern dining looks to die for! No. 131, Cheltenham – a Georgian townhouse complete with boutique features, chandeliers and quirky artwork (from £110 per night).

Camping, glamping & caravans in Cotswolds

cotswolds 2 day trip

If you’re a fan of the great outdoors, it can be a fun and affordable option to bring your tent or stay in a caravan. Campsites.co.uk is a ridiculously useful website where you can sort by location and accommodation type (motorhomes, caravans, tents, yurts and treehouses are all available). The are a wide range of campsites in the Cotswolds . Go check them out!

Once you’ve decided where to stay and how to get around, give some thought to the places you want to visit during your 2 days in the Cotswolds. Follow my sample itinerary for plenty of popular stops, and even more cream teas!

Cotswolds weekend itinerary

What type of Cotswolds weekend is this? It’s a busy Cotswolds itinerary for those who want to see a lot in one weekend. If you want a more leisurely time, take away the spots you’re the least interested in.

Cotswolds itinerary – Saturday

Begin your weekend in the Cotswolds by touring some of the most traditional and well-known towns in the area. Today you can get immersed in the area and see what all the fuss is about. Local tip – if you can, I would recommend starting your day early before the crowds arrive. Bourton-on-the-Water is one of the most popular spots in the Cotswolds so it’s best to get there early and do your sightseeing in the morning. Scoot off to quieter places as the bus trips arrive!

Bourton-on-the-Water

Bourton-on-the-water Cotswolds itinerary

Bourton-on-the-Water is sometimes called ‘Venice of the Cotswolds’ because of the rivers running through it. I’m not sure I can see the resemblance as there are certainly no gondolas but there is gelato (well, standard English ice cream). This is one of the most touristic spots in the Cotswolds so I wouldn’t recommend spending the whole day here. Instead, squeeze it into the morning of your Cotswolds itinerary before moving on.

Read next: the 20 most picturesque villages in the Cotswolds

Things to do in Bourton-on-the-Water

The Model Village – this is a place I visited a lot as a child and a few times as an adult, too. The Model Village is exactly that: a perfect miniature replica of Bourton. But is there a model of the model village? You’ll have to see for yourself. Inception! Entrance is £4.50 for adults (£3.50 for children). Birdland – I’m not a fan of zoos but there are no big animals here, only birds. With over 500 species and 150 types of trees, you can easily spend half a day here, especially if you have kids. There are ‘meet the keeper’ sessions, feeding times and educational talks.

Hawkstone Brewery – run by a local family, this brewery uses traditional methods to brew craft beers. Visit College Farm to sample different types of beers during a guided two-hour tour. There are also ciders and gin if you’re not a beer fan.

Where to eat and drink in Bourton

Rose Tree Restaurant – this restaurant in a grade II listed cottage right beside the river serves traditional British food and a few lighter continental dishes, too. Visit for lunch between 11.30am-3.30pm. Bakery on the Water  – this cafe serving artisan coffee and croissants is about as hipster as it gets for the Cotswolds. All the baked goods are freshly-made onsite and can be enjoyed takeaway, inside the cafe or in the riverside garden. The Chestnut Tree – for traditional British tea and cake, head to The Chestnut Tree for scones, jam and cream with a teapot of English breakfast tea. Enjoy your spread inside the cafe surrounded by quirky clutter or dine on the lawn opposite the River Windrush. They also serve toasties, baguettes and jacket potatoes.

Ice cream in Bourton-on-the-water Cotswolds

Where to park in Bourton-on-the-Water

You can park at Bourton Valle car park (£3 for two hours) or Rissington Road car park (free for up to two hours but a 15-minute walk into town).

Where to stay in Bourton-on-the-Water

For a relaxing getaway, you can’t beat The Dial House which is centrally located beside the river with a peaceful walled garden shading the sunny grounds from the rest of town. The property made of golden Cotswolds stone dates back to the 1600s, resembling an old farmhouse. The individually decorated rooms have different features, some including four-poster beds. Double ensuite rooms start from £95pn; check availability here .

Things to do nearby Bourton

Instead of continuing on to the larger towns mentioned below, you could opt for a quieter day by heading to the nearby Slaughter villages. Just 1.5 miles from Bourton, you can walk there in 20 minutes or drive in a couple of minutes.

cotswolds 2 day trip

Both villages are idyllic. Lower Slaughter has a few things to do including visiting the Old Mill Museum and cafe, crossing the pretty bridges and stopping for a pint at The Slaughters Country Inn. There’s less to do in Upper Slaughter but it’s worth a stop. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time! Alternatively, continue from Bourton to the more famous places in the Cotswolds…

Stow-on-the-Wold

Stow-on-the-Wold cottage Cotswolds weekend

Just a seven-minute drive from Bourton-on-the-Water is the next stop on our Cotswolds itinerary, Stow-on-the-Wold. Make a mid-morning stop for charming shops and photo opportunities. This is another of the most popular Cotswold towns known for its picturesque cottages, tearooms and plenty of history. Market Square even features some medieval stocks where public floggings used to take place.

Things to do in Stow-on-the-Wold

St Edwards Church – this Grade I listed building dates back to the 11th century. The ornate doorway flanked by huge trees is thought to have inspired J.R.R. Tolkien’s Doors of Durin. If you’re looking for quirky photo spots in the Cotswolds, this is the place to take them. St Edward’s stained glass windows are also very impressive. Fosse Gallery – art fanatics can pop into this art gallery to see contemporary art from around the UK. You can browse the art or buy something to take home. Shop for antiques – Stow is known for having some of the UK’s best antique shops. Check out Tara Antique Centre, Durham House Antiques and Baggot Church Street.

Where to eat and drink in Stow-on-the-Wold

In the Mood – this quirky, 1940s-inspired tearoom has a great selection of scones, cakes and pretty chinaware. If you’re visiting for a meal rather than tea and sweet treats, you can tuck into full English breakfasts, scampi & chips and other heaty English meals. Porch House – this cosy venue is the oldest inn in Britain as mentioned in the Guinness Book of Records. I can also attest to the fact they the best Sunday roast in the Cotswolds! Prices are high at £15 for main dishes but pretty standard for Cotswolds prices. For a cosy, atmospheric meal or drink, this is a wonderful pitstop.

Where to park in Stow-on-the-Wold

There’s limited parking in Stow so the best place to park is Fosseway car park nearby Tescos. This is a free long-stay car park so you can stay as long as you like.

Where to stay in Stow-on-the-Wold

Stay at The Porch House for rustic charm and a delicious Sunday roast the following day. There’s no end of period features like cosy roaring fireplaces and wooden beams. The spacious rooms with deep bathtubs look like heaven. Check availability for £105pn .

Moreton-in-Marsh

Moreton-in-Marsh

Moreton-in-Marsh is another charming addition to a Cotswold itinerary. It’s less touristic than Bourton and Stow making it perfect for a leisurely lunch or afternoon pitstop. Moreton has been a bustling market town for over 1,000 years dating back to Saxon times. There’s plenty of history to be explored including the White Hart Royal, the location where King Charles sheltered during the Civil War.

Things to do in Moreton-in-Marsh

Tuesday market – although this guide is geared towards a Cotswolds weekend, if you happen to be in town on a Tuesday, swing by the market. This open-air market has over 200 stalls selling fresh fruits, veggies and other fresh food. Chastleton House – just three miles from Moreton is Chastleton House , a Jacobean country property. It’s £12 to go inside the Grade I-listed house and wander the impressive grounds. The Bell Inn – fans of Lord of the Rings will want to swing by this pub which is thought to be the inspiration behind the Prancing Pony, the pub in Middle Earth. Stop by for a larger, wine, beer or spot of pub grub.

Chastleton House Cotswolds itinerary

Where to stay in Moreton-in-Marsh

The White Heart Royal in the centre of Moreton is a 17th-century coaching inn with individually designed bedrooms, four-poster beds and a private garden. Check availability from £120pn .

Where to park in Moreton-in-Marsh

Park at the Old Market Way car park which costs £1.50 for two hours.

COTSWOLDS ITINERARY – SUNDAY

Whether you’re up bright and early or have a long lie-in , there’s plenty more to see during your Cotswolds weekend itinerary. I would suggest…

 Broadway Tower

Girl in red coat looking up at Broadway Tower

The tallest tower for miles around is a good stop for your Cotswolds itinerary. Broadway Tower measures just over 1,000 ft making it the second-highest point in the Cotswolds. It’s hardly a skyscraper but it makes for beautiful views. While you can visit the grounds and admire the tower for free, your paid-for options at Broadway Tower include:

Climbing the tower – it costs £5 to go to the top and you’ll see some gorgeous countryside views on a clear day. Head down the war bunker – we did this by total accident as we somehow booked on the wrong tour. However, it turned out for the best as I learnt a lot about how it had been used as a nuclear bunker during the Cold War. See the website for prices. Visit Morris & Brown Cafe – if you’re truly British and need tea regularly, this onsite cafe makes for a good stop.

Girl in red coat walking towards Broadway tower

Broadway village

Almost as popular as Broadway Tower is Broadway itself. This large village is home to about 2,000 residents and a lot more tourists during sunny weekends! Stop to browse the high street, admire the golden stone buildings, or have lunch or an afternoon tea.

Broadway town centre with red post box Cotswolds

Things to do in Broadway

Browse the shops: From antiques to bookshops, jewellery and trinkets, there are lots of gorgeous shops in Broadway. You certainly won’t find any high street retails or Starbucks here! Visit John Noott Galleries and Cheltenham House Antiques for art and collectables, Whatever The Weather for gifts and homeware, and Rikki Tikki for kid’s toys and games. Snowshill Manor and Gardens – a 15-minute drive from Broadway is this manor house once lived in by Charles Wade with plenty of artifacts and gorgeous gardens.

The Cotswold Way Circular Walk

The Cotswolds Way Circular walk is a three-hour circular walk taking you from Broadway village to Broadway Tower and back. This is a moderate walk with some ups and downs but doable for those with a basic level of fitness. If your Cotswolds itinerary allows, it’s a great way to see the countryside in between hearty eats and charming villages.

Related: the best Oxfordshire walks

Where to eat and drink in Broadway

Broadway Deli – this independent cafe sells fresh fruits and veggies and has a huge garden to relax in. They serve all-day brunch along with deli cheese and meat platters. There are plenty of options for vegans and celiacs.

The Swan – for all your English favourites during your weekend in the Cotswolds, as well as some gourmet twists, visit The Swan . Go with Wagyu beef in place of a regular burger or swap standard pizza ingredients for fig and goat’s cheese. I’m yet to eat here myself but the fact that the dessert menu features a melting chocolate bomb is proof that I NEED TO.

The Cotswold Chocolate Company – fans of chocolate (isn’t this everyone?) need to check out this store on Broadway high street. Set inside an adorable thatched Cotswolds cottage, they sell artisan Fairtrade chocolates and hampers.

Hamiltons Chocolates Broadway – hidden away from the high street in Hamilton Court is one of my favourite Broadway shops, somewhere I’ve been visiting since I was a child. You’ll find all the confectionary imaginable displayed in glass jars for your choosing.

Where to stay in Broadway

The Lodge at Broadway is a relaxed and comfy place to stay set away from the High Street. The bespoke boutique bedrooms named after different British animals boast ensuites, Wi-Fi, free parking, breakfast and courtyard access. Check availability from £89pn .

Essentials for a Cotswolds weekend

Copy of Rough Guides The Cotswolds A fold-up raincoat – shop here for mens , womens and kids A reusable water bottle to reduce waste A reusable coffee cup (collapsable) for hot takeaway drinks A camera – I use the Sony DSC-HX350 Digital Compact Bridge Camera which I think is one of the most affordable options for a camera with such a good zoom A GoPro if you’re into making videos – I use the HERO7 Black .

Alternative Cotswolds weekend stops

If you have time during your Cotswolds itinerary and want to see more of the area, here are a few of my other favourite stops. These are all located in the east of the Cotswolds towards the Oxford side which means they’re enroute back to London if you’re going that way.

cotswolds 2 day trip

If you find yourself towards the Bath side of the Cotswolds, don’t miss Tetbury. This gorgeous market town and civil parish has lots of vintage shops and fantastic places to eat and drink. Climb the charming Chipping Steps, snap photos of Tetbury Market House and find the dolphin decorations (Tetbury’s mysterious emblem) dotted around the town.

Read next: What to do in Tetbury

Lacock cotswolds

In the south of the Cotswolds near Bath , you can check out this quaint village where photography was born at Lacock Abbey. If you’re a movie buff, don’t miss the Harry Potter filming locations in Lacock .

Pink building on Woodstock high street

This historic town is the gateway to popular Blenheim Palace but it’s also a lovely stop in itself. Like many places in the Cotswolds, there’s not loads to see and do but there are some fantastic places to eat and drink. Head to the Woodstock Arms for a traditional fry-up or Woodstock Coffee Shop for delicious coffees, hot chocolates and paninis. Don’t miss the almond cake!

Blenheim Palace

Exterior of Blenheim Palace Woodstock Cotswolds

I’ve mentioned this place in a few other posts lately. I promise I don’t secretly work for them and that I actually just really like it there. Blenheim is a stately house with UNESCO World Heritage Site status. It’s particularly nice in the summer when you could easily spend an entire day strolling the grounds, but other options include visiting the Palace State Rooms, Churchill Exhibition and Pleasure Gardens. Prices: a full pass to all areas and exhibitions is £26, a park and gardens pass is £16, or you can visit the grounds for free…

Read next: Why you should visit Blenheim Palace and how to do it for free

Minster Lovell

Minster Lovell Cotswolds itinerary

This is somewhere that brings back lovely childhood memories for me. Even if it’s your first time, I’m sure you’ll like it just as much. Entry to the ruins of this 15th-century manor house is free and it’s a lovely spot for a picnic. Alternatively, head to Minster Lovell village and visit…

The Old Swan and Minster Mill

Old Swan Minster Lovell

The vision of a quintessential English pub, the Swan is set in 65 acres of ground. Relax in the pub garden, play at a giant chess board or even visit the Spa. Alternatively, indulge with a well-deserved afternoon tea, hearty Sunday roast or G&T.

Cotswold Cheese company Burford

Right on the edge of the Cotswolds, Burford (just a 15-minute drive from Minster Lovell) is a final quick stop for your Cotswolds itinerary. Stop off when entering or exiting the Cotswolds and driving towards Oxford or London.

Related content: Things to do in Burford

Burford comprises one main high street with lots of country shops and pubs. Take home some treats from:

  • Burford Sweet Shop
  • Mrs Bumbles Delicatessen
  • The Cotswolds Cheese Company .

That’s a wrap! I hope I’ve provided some inspo on how to spend your weekend away in the Cotswolds! Shoot me any questions in the comments 🙂

Thanks for reading my weekend Cotswolds itinerary

For more travel content, follow me on Instagram , Facebook , Twitter and YouTube .

Check out my other England posts:

  • How to travel the UK on a budget
  • How to spend a weekend in Oxford
  • The best walks in Oxfordshire
  • My London archives
  • How to spend a weekend in Bristol
  • How to spend a weekend in Norfolk
  • Wittenham Clumps walk in Oxfordshire
  • How to spend a weekend in Manchester
  • The ultimate day trip to Brighton
  • 2 day Lake District itinerary
  • How to visit Margate as a day trip from London
  • Things to do in Liverpool in winter

See you next time for more adventures,

Ps. Liked my Cotswolds weekend guide? Pin this for later!

weekend in the cotswolds

TRUSTED RESOURCES FOR VISITING THE UK Getting there & around by air – I use Skyscanner to find the best-value flights, using the ‘search by month’ tool to find the cheapest dates. You can also use the ‘to anywhere’ feature if you’re flexible on where you’re going. Car hire – use Rentalcars.com to compare car rentals and campers in the UK (and all around the world). For UK trains , I use Trainline . The search feature allows you to compare prices with other modes of transport. For buses , I use busbud . It’s the only site that compares UK coaches and buses. Find London to Manchester journeys for £1!  For hotels and self-catering apartments, I use Booking.com . You can filter by review score and price to find the best-rated budget places. For hostels, I use Hostelworld.com . To save money on accommodation, I use Trusted Housesitters , a website that connects homeowners going away and travellers who can sit their homes & pets. Browse UK tours and activities on GetYourGuide . Pack the latest copy of Lonely Planet UK . Need travel insurance ? I use True Traveller (for UK & Europe residents) since it’s affordable but covers everything you’d need including various activities, valuables and pre-existing conditions. Unlike some companies, they insure you if you’re already travelling / don’t yet have your flight home booked. Get a quote . For travel insurance for other nationalities, I recommend Hey Mundo and for long-term digital nomad travellers, I suggest Safety Wing . See all my suggestions on my resources page .

cotswolds 2 day trip

Rose is a solo traveller from the UK who has been on the road since 2015. She wants to show other women that solo travel isn't scary and doesn't have to be expensive! Rose has lived in Mexico, Canada and all over Asia, seeking out food, bubble tea and street art wherever she goes!

3 thoughts on “ The Perfect Weekend Cotswolds Itinerary (2024) + Maps ”

cotswolds 2 day trip

Great ideas! I visited Broadway via walking from Chipping Campden (I didn’t have a car and so agree with needing a car here). Chipping Campden is another nice town to add to your list!

cotswolds 2 day trip

Some great suggestions here – I’ve recently returned from a weekend break in Cheltenham and fell in love with this part of the world. Can’t wait to go back and explore some of the smaller Cotswold towns, some of these you’ve shared look like absolute gems.

cotswolds 2 day trip

So many great ideas and tips in this post! I am pinning for when I finally make it to the Cotswolds, hoping sometime this summer!

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UK Travel Planning

Cotswolds Travel Guide (Best Tips, Itineraries & Map)

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: July 26, 2023

Complete Travel Guide to the Cotswolds

Our Cotswolds Travel Guide includes recommended places to go and things to do, accommodation options, tips and photos from one of the most beautiful regions of England. Everything you need to plan your visit and essential reading for any visitor to the region!

LET’S PLAN YOUR VISIT TO THE COTSWOLDS!

The Cotswolds are one of the most popular destinations in the south of England for both UK residents and visitors from abroad.

Spread across an area of 2000+ kilometres and several English counties including Gloucestershire, Somerset, Worcestershire and Oxfordshire the Cotswolds region was designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) in 1966.

Famous for its English market towns and villages with quaint honey-coloured houses, the Cotswolds are the perfect destination for walkers, cyclists and those simply wishing to explore a quintessentially English destination.

In this guide, you will find links to all our articles about the Cotswolds to help you plan your visit to the Cotswolds and have the best time possible in this beautiful area of England.

Good to know – If you are visiting the UK and are located in London the Cotswolds are perfect for a day trip (though I highly recommend exploring the area for a few days if you can) You can find out more below.

Map of the Cotswolds

When is the best time to visit the cotswolds, what to see and do in the cotswolds, cotswolds podcast episodes, how to get to the cotswolds, best tours to the cotswolds from london, where to stay in the cotswolds, best experiences in the cotswolds, best travel books about the cotswolds, common questions when planning your visit.

The Cotswolds are a popular destination to visit in England at any time of the year . High season is from June to August and the area is crowded with visitors. If you are planning to visit Oxford this is the time of year when students are on holiday and a great time to wander the different colleges.

During the winter months (December to February) the Cotswolds are at their quietest. Expect cooler temperatures with the possibility of snow! If you are planning a winter trip check the weather and visit on cold, crisp days when the sun is out and the skies are blue. The days are shorter in winter so plan your itinerary carefully to make the most of daylight hours.

Spring and autumn months (March to May and September to November) are ideal times of year to visit the Cotswolds. Enjoy the beautiful autumn leaves on the trees or the spring flowers as you explore the villages and countryside.

Autumn in the Cotswolds

There are so many beautiful towns and villages to visit in the Cotswolds that one is really spoilt for choice.

If you are planning a Cotswolds visit the best way to organise your trip is to decide which villages and towns you want to see in the different areas.

The Cotswolds can be divided into northern (Gloucestershire) eastern (Oxfordshire) and southern areas (Gloucestershire and Wiltshire) each with its own must-see villages and towns.

Let’s not forget that some of the towns and villages that border the Cotswold region are also worth including in your itinerary.

The beautiful town of Stratford-upon-Avon is located on the edge of the northern Cotswolds region.

Blenheim Palace a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the birthplace of Winston Churchill and the historic university city of Oxford are both located to the east of the Cotswolds.

And the stunning city of Bath is located to the south of the Cotswolds.

Read more about these attractions below:

A Cotswold street

BEST VILLAGES TO VISIT IN THE COTSWOLDS

A river and a house located in the Cotswolds

BEST THINGS TO DO IN THE COTSWOLDS

Sheep and a church in the background

7 BEST COTSWOLDS TOURS FROM LONDON

The Roman Baths in Bath

BATH TRAVEL GUIDE

Blenheim Palace

GUIDE TO VISITING BLENHEIM PALACE

The city of Oxford

OXFORD TRAVEL GUIDE

FAQs – Cotswolds Travel Guide

Option 1 – cotswolds by car.

The Cotswolds are in (my opinion) best explored by car (though parking can be an issue during the summer) as public transport options are limited.

There are excellent links to the area via the national motorway network and the M4, M5 and M40. 

The Cotswolds are located about 100 miles outside of London. Allow around 2 hours depending on traffic.

Option 2 – By train

London to Cotswolds

If you wish to take public transport it is possible to catch a train from London’s Paddington Station to Moreton in the Marsh in the heart of the Cotswolds.

Alternatively travel from Paddington on the Gloucester line alighting at Kemble Station in the southern Cotswolds region. Here you can pick up a bus outside the station to Morton in the Marsh, Stow on the Wold, Bourton on the Water and Tetbury. 

Check timetables and train prices at the trainline .

Option 3 – Take a tour

There are many day tours to the Cotswolds from London and other English cities . You will find more information below.

Read more – How to get from London to the Cotswolds (detailed guide)

If you prefer to take a tour of the Cotswolds and avoid the hassle of driving or public transport there are a few options to choose from.

We highly recommend booking a private driver tour guide to show you around the Cotswolds – our partner Victoria of Cotswold Teacup Tours can tailor-make your private tour around your interests. She can meet you in the Cotswolds or at Oxford train station and start your tour from there.

Unfortunately with a group day tour from London you will only scratch the surface of the area but if you are pushed for time or can’t push the budget for a private tour this may be your best option .

Often the tours combine visits to other popular destinations too. I have curated a selection of the best group day tours to the Cotswolds below from Get Your Guide who is our tour operator of choice.

We book the majority of our day tours and organised activities through Get Your Guide when we travel. Their cancellation policy is very good and customer service exceptional and we have only ever had positive experiences when we book tours with them.

  • Full-day tour of the Cotswolds from London – Visit 4 of the most beautiful Cotswolds villages during this 9-hour tour from London. There is plenty of free time to explore and even to enjoy a traditional pub lunch at Stow-on-the-Wold!
  • Blenheim Palace, Downton Abbey Village & the Cotswolds – A must for Downton Abbey fans this full-day tour includes visits to 2 Cotswolds villages as well as Blenheim Palace the birthplace of Winston Churchill.
  • Oxford, Stratford Upon Avon, Cotswolds, and Warwick – Another full day trip with lots to see. This tour is perfect for those with limited time as it includes a number of the top sights in the Cotswolds.

Click for our guide to the 7 best tours to the Cotswolds from London

There are many wonderful accommodation options in the Cotswolds from quaint cottages, glamping and B&Bs to luxury 5-star hotels with spas.

Budget £75 – 130 for a double room in a B&B and £130+ per night for a boutique hotel.

Click the link below to book the perfect Cotswolds accommodation for your trip.

Cotswolds village

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN THE COTSWOLDS

⭐️ UK TRAVEL PLANNING QUICK PICKS

  • Most romantic hotel in the Cotswolds – The Painswick or Mad Molly’s Cottage
  • Best hotel with hot tub in the Cotswolds – The Manor House Hotel
  • Best hotel with spa –  The Lygo n Arms
  • Best Country House Hotel –  Ellenborough Park
  • Best pub with rooms in the Cotswolds – The Swan Hotel
  • Best thatched cottage in the Cotswolds – Bells Cottage
  • Best pet-friendly hotel – The Old Stocks Inn
  • Best Cotswolds hotel for foodies – The Slaughters Country Inn

For other stays in England click here for my England Accommodation Guide

There are lots of fabulous experiences to have during your visit to the Cotswolds. These are my top choices:

  • Explore Downton Abbey Filming Locations & Highclere Castle on a day tour from London.
  • Join a walking tour through some of the prettiest villages of the famous Cotswolds, including Minster Lovell and Burford
  • Take part in a Geo scavenger hunt of the Cotswolds Using a smartphone app and GPS technology follow a series of map pins that guide you to secret destinations and challenges.
  • Tour of the Cotswolds from Moreton-in-Marsh – Showcasing the must-see villages that can be tricky to find on your own, the excursion visits Bourton-on-the-Water and Chipping Camden along with some lesser-known hamlets that many Cotswolds tourists miss. Start from an easy-to-find location at Moreton-in-Marsh train station!

English cottages lining a river bank many of which can be found in travel guides to the Cotswolds

If you are looking for more information to plan your trip to the Cotswolds there are a number of books which you may find helpful.

For walkers

  • Short walks in the Cotswolds – All the walks are five miles or under in length and can easily be completed in less than three hours. 20 walks are included and use clear maps to show the route plus easy to follow walk descriptions.
  • Cotswold Way: Chipping Campden to Bath – All-in-one hiking route guide and maps to the Cotswold Way, a 102-mile National Trail that runs from Chipping Campden to Bath, following the beautiful Cotswold escarpment for most of its course.

For those who love discovering hidden gems

  • Secret Gardens of the Cotswolds – A captivating portrait of 20 of the greatest British gardens and the lords, ladies and gardeners who own and manage them.
  • Secret Houses of the Cotswolds  – A personal tour of twenty of the UK’s most beguiling houses in this much loved area of western England.

Best travel guide books

  • Lonely Planet Pocket Oxford & the Cotswolds – Get to the heart of Oxford & the Cotswolds and begin your journey with Lonely Planet’s guide!
  • The Rough Guide to the Cotswolds, Stratford-upon-Avon and Oxford – Discover this exquisite region of England with the help of this rough guide!

English village scene with red phone box as seen in a Cotswolds Travel Guide

  • What should you not miss in the Cotswolds?

Check out my guide to the best things to do in the Cotswolds which has all of the top things to do and places to visit.

  • Which is the prettiest villages in the Cotswolds?

There are so many pretty villages to visit in the Cotswolds that it is impossible to choose just one! My favourites are Bibury, Bourton on the water and Lower Slaughter.

Read more in my guide to the most beautiful villages and towns in the Cotswolds.

  • How many days do you need in the Cotswolds?

You can see some of the Cotswolds in a day but I recommend at least 2/3 days to explore the area.

  • When is the best time of year to visit the Cotswolds?

As mentioned above if possible try to avoid visiting during the summer school holidays (July/August) as the Cotswolds can be extremely busy.

Parking can be even more difficult at this time of year too. I recommend booking your accommodation as much in advance as possible to avoid disappointment.

Also, book restaurants ahead of time or you may struggle to get a table at popular pubs and eateries.

  • What other places are there to visit near the Cotswolds?

The Cotswolds are located in the South West of England. Read more about the best things to do in this area of the UK here.

Looking for more inspiration for your travels in England? Check out my England Travel Planning Guide which has loads of ideas, tips and resources to plan your itinerary.

Complete Travel Guide to the Cotswolds 2

Helena Bradbury

Castle Combe in the Cotswolds

Weekend in the Cotswolds itinerary

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something. While clicking these links won't cost you anything, they will help me to keep this site up and running! Check out the full disclosure policy for more details. Thank you so much!

The Cotswolds is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty made up of parts of Oxfordshire, Gloucestershire, Worcestershire and Somerset in the UK. With rolling hills, sandy-coloured stone houses, thatched roofs and winding country roads, this area is full of beautiful towns, scenic spots and quaint country pubs in a fairly compact area.

This makes it a great place have a staycation if you’re from the UK or to take a weekend in the Cotswolds road trip if you’re wanting to experience some of the English countryside not too far from London.

I did this 2 day itinerary Cotswolds drive in the summer from where I’m based in Oxford. Oxford is a beautiful city on the edge of the Cotswolds, which made it a great base to explore from every day.

If you’ve got a car and a couple of days to see the highlights of the Cotswolds then look no further than this Cotswolds travel guide!

Also check out the 15 most beautiful villages in the Cotswolds and these Unusual Places to Stay in the Cotswolds .

Cotswolds itinerary: Day 1

Bourton-on-the-water.

The first stop on your 2 days in Cotswolds AONB is Bourton on the Water which is a beautiful village but very popular on coach tours so make sure to arrive early before they do! You can park at a pay and display car park which is located just after the Model Village.

The village has a beautiful stream running through it with lots of pedestrian bridges which is why Bourton-on-the-Water is often called the Venice of the Cotswolds. You can spend an hour or so wandering around the shops and along the surrounding streets.

Make sure to stop at the Rose Tree Cafe which is right on the water’s edge with a gorgeous outdoor seating spot. Their morning coffee & cream teas run until 11.45am so get there early to nab a seat for some proper English Cream Tea - a must-do experience on your Cotswolds itinerary!

English tea and scones in the cotswolds with jam

The Slaughters - Upper & Lower Slaughter

The Slaughters in the Cotswolds

The Slaughters in the Cotswolds

Upper and Lower Slaughter are two small villages near to each other in the Cotswolds. Both are beautiful but we preferred Lower Slaughter with yet another picturesque stream running through it, complete with a mill wheel and quaint bridges.

Cotswolds shop front

We left our car parked on the side of a country road coming into the village and walked the rest of the way in to explore on foot. Lower Slaughter is also home to the Lower Slaughter Museum and The Slaughters Country Inn which you can stay at or book to eat on its beautiful lawn for afternoon tea.

1006-2018-05121106638611888970-01.jpg

Stow-on-the-Wold

Stow on the Wold High Street

Stow on the Wold High Street

Stow-on-the-Wold is a bigger town and the closest town to the Slaughters, about 8 miles away. The town is often considered the centre of the Cotswolds because several major roads converge there and it’s believed that was how the town was established in the 11th century by merchants to take advantage of passing trade routes.

Stow on the Wold

Stow on the Wold

We parked in the old market square surrounded by the characteristic Cotswold stone buildings and had coffee and cake at The Little Stocks Tea Shop, the perfect place for a spot of people watching.

While you’re in the town, don’t miss The Cotswolds Cheese Co. (yum), Cotswolds Chocolate and Roly’s Fudge Pantry (double yum).

Stow on the Wold in the Cotswolds

Stow on the Wold in the Cotswolds

Explore the countryside

Sitting in a field of buttercup flowers

Sitting in a field of buttercup flowers

Save some time on your Cotwolds driving route to just drive or walk around the countryside too. There are lots of public footpaths through fields and if you visit in June-August there will be plenty of wildflower fields in bloom.

If you’re looking for places to eat in the Cotswolds to round off the day, stop by Daylesford Farm Shop and explore their local produce too.

Or head over to the popular town of Chipping Norton and visit the Blue Boar pub for some good old country grub.

Places to stay in the Cotswolds

If you’re looking for the ultimate Cotswolds experience, these are some of my favourite places to stay in the area.

I’ve stayed in this gorgeous wooden tiny house with a hot tub in the north of the Cotswolds and highly recommend staying there for a romantic overnight stay in the Cotswolds or a small group as it sleeps up to 4!

If you're looking to stay in a quintessential English cottage in the heart of it all in the famous village of Bourton on the Water, this Cotswolds cottage is perfect!

Or for bigger groups for families, this Cotswolds converted barn is an amazing option.

Cotswolds itinerary: Day 2

Lower Slaughter in the Cotswolds

Lower Slaughter in the Cotswolds

Castle Combe

Make an early start on your weekend away in the Cotswolds and visit the village frequently voted the prettiest village in England. Essentially made up of two streets of picture-perfect Cotswold stone houses, a market cross and a beautiful manor house, we somehow managed to spend a few hours there! It’s not hard to see why…

the bridge in Castle Combe

To see the Manor House there is an entrance at the top and bottom of the village and you can walk through the grounds, unfortunately you can only go inside if you have a reservation!

Westonbirt Arboretum

If you’re planning where to go in the Cotswolds off the beaten track, head back up north through the Cotswolds and stop at Westonbirt Arboretum, a beautiful park owned by the Forestry Commission. Take plenty of time to follow the suggested routes. My favourite is the Japanese maples and Acer trees in autumn.

red leaves of the japanese maple tree at westonbirt arboretum

You can view my full Westonbirt Arboretum album.

See the famous Arlington Row at Bibury

2 days in the Cotswolds isn’t complete without visiting Bibury. As you drive back into the north Cotswolds, make sure to stop at the beautiful village of Bibury. Once called the most beautiful village in England by 19th century artist William Morris, this really is a picture-perfect part of the Cotswolds.

See the famous row of terrace houses at Arlington Row, which is protected by the National Trust. Explore the water meadows too and you might see some incredible wildlife like water voles or dragonflies.

Don’t miss Cotswolds Gin

a glass of Cotswolds gin and tonic at the Plough Inn

a glass of Cotswolds gin and tonic at the Plough Inn

Add a cheeky taste of local gin to your Cotswolds itinerary. Further east is the Plough Hotel & Restaurant at Clanfield. They have a huge selection of gins in their Gin Pantry and helpful staff to tell you which tonics to pair them with. Cotswolds Gin, Toad Gin and Ashmolean Gin are all local to the area.

I hope this guide has helped you plan your weekend in the Cotswolds itinerary. 2 days in the Cotswolds is a great amount of time to see the best of what the area has to offer!

If you’re in a rush, pin it so you can save it for later to help you plan your future trip.

Weekend in the Cotswolds itinerary

Flights: I use Expedia to find great flights and the best deals all over the world, they have regular sales and offers so I always check their website. I also check CheapOair to find cheap deals on round trip flights.

Car Rental: I love the customer service I've always gotten and the variety of options with Rental Cars. But for short notice rentals, I've been using Expedia for the last year, they always seem to have great one-day rates or last-minute rates from the main rental companies.

Accommodation: I prefer the flexibility of booking accommodation with Booking.com so I can cancel or change my reservation without a fee or only pay on arrival for most properties. For longer or more unique stays I prefer AirBnB because you can get the long stay discount, you can also find more unique properties and book experiences with talented locals and businesses. For my budget trips, I always stay in hostels and book through Hostelworld because they have great guarantees if anything does go wrong. If you arrive and your booking is not at the property, they refund the full deposit AND give you $50 extra credit.

Tours and organised trips Although I don’t use tours that often, I do like to book local experiences or day trips once I reach my destination. For that I use GetYourGuide because it has the biggest selection and variety of tour and experience options.

Travel Insurance: I currently use SafetyWing Nomad Insurance. Which allows me to pay a rolling monthly fee to cover my long term travels.

My camera gear and equipment: I use a Canon 77D with an 18-135mm lens or a 50mm lens . And a DJI Mavic Mini Drone . For all my gear including laptops, tripods and more camera accessories read my travel photography gear guide .

Explore the Cotswolds

Driving the Cotswolds Romantic Road: 2-day Cotswold road trip itinerary

By Author Lucy Dodsworth

Posted on Last updated: 22 February 2024

Take a two-day driving tour along the scenic roads of the Cotswolds on this romantic road trip. The Cotswolds Romantic Road is one of the Great British Drives, and includes some of the best-known and most beautiful Cotswold towns and villages, churches, country houses and gardens.

The Cotswolds Romantic Road is made up of two one-day circular driving routes, both starting in the Regency town of Cheltenham. The first loop runs through the north of the Cotswolds via Broadway, Chipping Campden, Stow-on-the-Wold and Bourton-on-the-Water. And the second loops east from Cheltenham through Northleach, Burford, Lechlade, Bibury, Cirencester and Painswick.

The Cotswolds Romantic Road through Broadway

The route includes a mix of famous and lesser-known destinations, so you can tailor the stops to suit what you want to see – whether you want to focus on the big names or get off the beaten track. We’ve suggested places to stop off along the route in the itineraries below to help plan your trip.

The distances covered each day aren’t that big, but there’s a lot to see so factor in plenty of time for sightseeing (and food, drink and shopping) stops. This Cotswolds Romantic Road itinerary covers two days, but you could also spread it over a longer time period and make more stops.

Bridge over the River Eye in Lower Slaughter

However you choose to drive it, the Cotswolds Romantic Road is a great way to see some of the highlights and hidden gems of the Cotswolds by car. Or if you’d rather not drive, we also have a series of guides which show you how to explore the Cotswolds by public transport .

If you don’t want to organise the trip yourself, you can also book a Romantic Road package with Compass Holidays , who organise accommodation, provide maps and GPS directions, and can also book car hire (or even a chauffeur-driven car) for you.

The village of Withington in the Cotswolds

Tips for driving the Cotswolds Romantic Road

Cotswold roads are often narrow and may have just one lane. So take it slowly and be prepared to stop. If you need to pass a car going in the opposite direction, there are usually passing places on single-lane roads, but if not you may have to pull onto the verge to let them go by.

If you want to hire a car in Cheltenham, both Midlands Vehicle Rental and Enterprise car hire’s offices are within 15–20 minutes’ walk of Cheltenham train station. Booking in advance is advised – as is hiring the smallest car you need to make it easier to manoeuvre and park.

Country roads through Snowshill on the Cotswolds Romantic Road

Parking can be difficult in the busiest Cotswold towns and villages, especially in summer and at weekends. Our locals’ guides give details of parking options in the main destinations.

There aren’t always many signposts in the Cotswolds so it’s useful to have a GPS or sat nav to help you navigate (though beware they usually show you the shortest way rather than the scenic route used in these itineraries). And a print map * is a good backup as mobile signal can be patchy.

Arlington Row in Bibury

Cotswolds Romantic Road day 1

The first day of the Cotswolds Romantic Road trip focuses on the north of the Cotswolds, mainly travelling on smaller, quieter B roads. The day’s highlights include Sudeley Castle, the pretty villages of Stanton and Snowshill, Broadway and its tower, Chipping Campden, Father Brown filming location Blockley, Stow-on-the-Wold, Bourton-on-the-Water and the Slaughters.

Day 1 covers approximately 62.5 miles and if you drive it straight through it would take 2.5–3 hours. But that only includes driving time so allow a full day to make stops along the route.

Cotswolds Romantic Road day 1 map of the route

Day 1 route

The route starts by heading northeast out of Cheltenham, passing through Prestbury and joining the B4632 as it climbs up Cleeve Hill. Cleeve Hill is the highest point in the Cotswolds, and if you want to admire the views you can stop off at the Quarry Car Park (signposted Cleeve Hill Golf Club) then take a short walk onto Cleeve Common following the Cotswold Way signs.

Continue along the B4632 into Winchcombe , which dates from the Saxon period. This is where you’ll find 15th-century Sudeley Castle. It was once home to Henry VIII’s last wife Katherine Parr, who’s buried in St Mary’s Church in the grounds. You can take a look around some of the castle rooms, visit an exhibition about its history and explore its 10 different gardens.

Sudeley Castle on the Cotswolds Romantic Road

Stay on the B4632 as far as Toddington, then turn right onto the B4077 towards Stanway . This tiny village is one of the area’s lesser-known scenic spots. Stanway House is known for its 300-foot-high fountain, which is open to the public on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons in summer.

Follow Stanway Road north through Stanton , which is one of our favourite Cotswold villages, with its vintage lanterns and half-timbered and Cotswold stone buildings draped in flowers.

Cottages in Stanton village in the Costwolds

Rejoin the B4632 north of Stanton and follow it as far as Broadway . The ‘Jewel of the Cotswolds’, Broadway has great shops, cafés and restaurants – grab a coffee from the colourful Broadway Deli and take a walk along the High Street to admire its 16th- and 17th-century buildings. There’s also the Gordon Russell Design Museum and Broadway Museum and Art Gallery to visit.

Leave Broadway along Snowshill Road to the south. At Snowshill you can stop and visit Snowshill Manor with its quirky collection of curios and Arts and Crafts gardens. Then head east towards Cotswold Lavender , whose colourful fields are open to the public each summer.

The Cotswold Lavender fields

After the lavender fields, follow Buckle Street past the Broadway Tower , a fairytale folly that was once an artists’ retreat, located at the second highest point of the Cotswolds. You can stop to admire views over 16 counties, climb the tower or visit the nuclear bunker hidden beneath it.

Carry on along Buckle Street until you reach the B4632, then turn right and drive through Weston Subedge. Turn right onto the B4035 which runs through Ashton Subedge to Chipping Campden . This former wool town has a lovely High Street to explore. You can find out more about the Arts and Crafts movement at the Court Barn Museum and see artisans at work in the Old Silk Mill.

Chipping Campden's Market Hall

Head south of Chipping Campden through Broad Campden , which has some charming thatched cottages, and along Park Street into Blockley . Blockley was once a centre of the silk milling industry but is now better known to fans of BBC TV series Father Brown as Kembleford. You can see filming locations from the show around the village, including the church and vicarage.

Drive south from Blockley along the B4479, then turn left when you reach the A44, driving through Bourton on the Hill towards Moreton-in-Marsh . Garden lovers might want to make a stop at either Batsford Arboretum or Bourton House Garden on the way into Moreton. There’s also the Wellington Aviation Museum on the edge of town, and a popular Tuesday market.

Batsford Arboretum in autumn

Turn right onto the A429, also known as the Fosse Way Roman road, which runs through Moreton-in-Marsh to Stow-on-the-Wold . Hilltop Stow is a great place to stop for lunch, with plenty of cafés, pubs and restaurants to choose from, including Huffkins Bakery, Cotswold Baguettes and The Porch House. And don’t miss visiting Edward’s Church with its famous Yew Tree Door.

Go right on the B4068 from Stow-on-the-Wold as far as Lower Swell , then turn left and keep left at the next two junctions on your way to Lower Slaughter . The last stretch runs along Copsehill Road, which was once voted the most romantic street in England. There are historic cottages and stone bridges across the River Eye to see – plus the cosy Slaughters Country Inn.

Lower Slaughter

The next stop is Upper Slaughter , a mile away along Becky Hill. You can also walk there – it takes 20 minutes each way on an easy path along the river then across fields.

Backtrack to Lower Slaughter, then rejoin the A429 for the short drive into Bourton-on-the-Water . Bourton is one of the most popular Cotswold villages, in a scenic setting along the shallow River Windrush. There’s lots to see including the Model Village, Cotswold Motoring Museum, Birdland and the Dragonfly Maze – as well as plenty of waterside pubs and tearooms.

The River Windrush in Bourton-on-the-Water

Drive through Bourton, crossing the A429 and driving along Buckle Street before turning left onto the B4068. You pass through the village of Naunton then merge onto the A436 and follow this to Andoversford. Then turn right onto the A40 which runs into the centre of Cheltenham.

If you have time to spare there’s lots to do in Cheltenham , including the Wilson Art Gallery and Museum, Holst Victorian House, Pittville Pump Room and independent shopping in Montpellier and the Suffolks. There are also some fantastic places to eat – our favourites include Lumiere for a special occasion, Petit Coco for French food, Kibou for sushi and Gallimores Kitchen.

Pittville Park in Cheltenham

Cotswolds Romantic Road day 2

The second day on the Cotswolds Romantic Road takes us east of Cheltenham and across the border from Gloucestershire into Oxfordshire. Highlights of today’s Cotswold road trip itinerary include Chedworth Roman Villa, Burford and the villages along the Windrush Valley, Lechlade-on-Thames, picturesque Bibury, Cirencester and Painswick with its church and Rococo Garden.

Day two covers approximately 87 miles and would take 3.5 hours to drive straight through.

Cotswolds Romantic Road day 2 map of the route

Day 2 route

Start by taking the A40 southeast of Cheltenham, turning off at Dowdeswell and continuing on along quiet, country roads to the village of Withington on the banks of the River Coln. Look out for stables along the way – this area is home to some of the Cotswolds’ top horse trainers.

Follow King’s Head Lane out of Withington and through Cassey Compton until you reach the entrance to Chedworth Roman Villa . The villa was one of the largest and grandest Roman villas in Britain, and dates from the 4th century with ornate mosaics, underfloor heating and bathhouses. It’s now run by the National Trust and visitors can explore the site and museum.

Chedworth Roman Villa in the Cotswolds

Head east from the Roman villa through Yarnworth, merging onto the A429 and then turning off into Northleach . Northleach was an important wool town and has some lovely half-timbered buildings as well as the Church of St Peter and St Paul – known as the ‘Cathedral of the Cotswolds’. You can also stop for a cup of tea at the town’s former Old Prison, which is now a café.

Go east through Northleach, crossing Farmington Road and driving through the village of Farmington . The road then winds its way along the Sherbourne Brook and then the River Windrush. You drive through a series of small villages including Windrush and Taynton .

Thatched cottage in Taynton in the Windrush Valley on the Cotswolds Romantic Road

When you reach a roundabout on the edge of Burford , turn right onto the High Street. The road crosses an arched bridge over the River Windrush then climbs uphill through the town towards Burford Hill, lined with historic buildings. You can visit the Tolsey Museum of local history, shop for antiques and admire the stained glass windows in the Church of St John the Baptist.

Next backtrack to the roundabout and turn right onto the A361. Turn off to the right at Fulbrook and follow Beech Grove towards Swinbrook . The village pub the Swan Inn was once owned by Deborah Mitford – the late Duchess of Devonshire and youngest of the Mitford sisters.

Historic buildings on Burford Hill

Drive on into Asthall , another village with a Mitford connection – you can see the Jacobean Manor House where the family once lived next to St Peter’s Church. Then head south and turn right onto the A40, following it as far as Burford Garden Centre then turning left onto the A361.

Leaving the official Cotswold boundary behind you, drive south towards Lechlade-on-Thames . On the way you pass the Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens, where you can stop off to see over 250 different species of animals including rhinos, giraffes, leopards and lions.

The Mitfords' former house in Asthall on the Cotswolds Romantic Road

Lechlade lies on the banks of the River Thames, and you can take a boat trip on the river or hire a kayak or paddleboard – or stay dry with a walk along a stretch of the Thames Path. Then turn right onto the A417 which passes the Cotswold Water Park lakes on its way towards Fairford.

Fairford was a coaching stop on the route between London and Gloucester, and many of its historic buildings were originally built as inns for travellers. There’s also St Mary’s Church which has fine medieval stained glass windows, and a traditional market every Wednesday.

Lechlade's Halfpenny Bridge on the Coswolds Romantic Road route

From Fairford, drive north along Fairford Road, following the River Coln to Coln St Aldwyns . Then continue along the Salt Way to Bibury . Bibury is best known for the quaint stone weavers’ cottages on Arlington Row but there are also walks across the water meadows and the Trout Farm. You can try local trout in their café or have lunch at The Swan or Catherine Wheel.

Turn left onto the B4425, which passes through Barnsley – where you’ll find The Boot pub and Barnsley House hotel – on its way to Cirencester , ‘Capital of the Cotswolds’. Cirencester was an important Roman town and you can learn more at the Corinium Museum and Roman amphitheatre, as well as browsing crafts by local artisans at the New Brewery Arts centre.

Cirencester’s Corinium Museum

After leaving Cirencester, head west, turning off onto the A419 Stroud Road before turning off again onto the smaller road which runs through the villages of Sapperton and Bisley on its way to Painswick . You can follow Painswick’s heritage trail, count the 99 yew trees around St Mary’s Church, visit the Rococo Gardens, or have a delicious afternoon tea at The Painswick.

Then finally end your trip on the Cotswold Romantic Road by driving along the A46 past Painswick Beacon and Cooper’s Hill – where daredevil competitors take part in the annual cheese-rolling competitions each May – before arriving back into the south of Cheltenham.

St Mary's Church in Painswick

Where to stay in Cheltenham

Cheltenham makes a convenient base for driving the Cotswolds Romantic Road, and has a good selection of places to stay, eat and drink. Our favourite accommodation options include:

The Queens Hotel * is right at the heart of Cheltenham, overlooking Imperial Gardens. It was one of Britain’s first purpose-built hotels when it opened in 1838 and has lots of period features. There are 84 bedrooms spread over three floors, Victoria’s restaurant and the Gold Cup Bar.

No 38 The Park * is an elegant Regency townhouse on the edge of Pittville Park in the north of Cheltenham. There are 13 bedrooms in different categories from Cosy to Outstanding, and the hotel is decorated with antiques, flowers and artworks. It also has a bar and restaurant.

The Queens Hotel in Cheltenham

Neptune Apartments on the Promenade have Cheltenham’s best shopping, eating and drinking on their doorstep. The 12 luxurious apartments are a mix of studios and one beds, all sleeping two, and come with stylish décor, high-end appliances and their own kitchens and lounge areas.

Or just north of town but still within easy reach, Ellenborough Park * is a five-star country house hotel located close to the racecourse. Its 61 bedrooms are spread across several historic buildings and there’s a restaurant, bar, brasserie and a spa and swimming pool to relax in.

Room at Ellenborough Park hotel near Cheltenham

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cotswolds 2 day trip

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GUIDED TOURS

Www.cotswoldsguidedtours.co.uk [email protected] landline +44 (0) 1608 654 445 mobile / whatsapp +44 (0) 7756513150, best of the best cotswolds highlights 2 day tour.

Private Cotswold Tour visiting the best places to enjoy the English countryside

 2 day  Private Cotswolds Tour exploring

12 amazing locations!

Explore 12 amazing Cotswolds locations spread over two days exploring with fun & friendly local Cotswolds tour guides. Each day you will spend time exploring 6 stunning locations, chosen for their beauty, quirky history & ability to showcase the region's best kept secrets & well-known villages.

On the first day you will visit,  the tiny riverside village of Lower Slaughter. Marvel at the beautiful cottages & stunning old water mill. Next you will visit the most famous village in the Cotswolds, Bourton on the Water. Wander along the river, crossing little stone bridges. This is the perfect stop for morning coffee where you can spend time watching the world go by or exploring the little stores. Travel down narrow country lanes to Upper Slaughter, discover why this is known as a doubly thankful village & if you are lucky, you may spot a Cotswolds lion or two. Heading through the hills you will visit the gorgeous village of Snowshill, before stopping for lunch in Broadway. Broadway with its beautiful treelined street & lots of independent eateries & shops is the ideal venue for a snack or more extensive meal. The last stop of the day is the quintessential village of Stanton. Here you will see thatched cottages, visit a wonderful church & often hear the clip clop of horse’s hooves along the main street. 

After a restful night you have another fun filled day, start off at one of the oldest sites in the Cotswolds, Rollright Stones. These neolithic standing stones predate Stonehenge. You will discover the folklore surrounding this site & try your hand at the ancient art of dowsing. Next you will head into the Oxfordshire Cotswolds & stop at the stunning village of Great Tew, filled with fairy-tale thatched cottages. After meandering through this unspoilt village, you will head on to  Adlestrop, linked to two famous writers. Edward Thomas’s poem about the village epitomises the Cotswolds. Even a hundred years on, his description of this sleepy village is apt. You will wander down the village lanes & marvel at the peace & tranquillity. This village is also connected to one of our most celebrated novelists, here you will uncover the association between this beautiful village & Jane Austen.  Having built up an appetite, your next destination is the highest market town in the Gloucestershire Cotswolds, Stow on the Wold. Have time for lunch & some sightseeing, do not miss Tolkien's Door, the oldest inn in England, along with the little independent stores in the market square. In t he afternoon we will head to Dover's Hill, for some stunning views & on to see one of the prettiest high streets in the Cotswolds, Chipping Campden. You will have time to explore Chipping Campden; whether you choose to visit the local 'Wool' Church, visit little stores were skilled craftsmen & women still carrying on producing beautiful pieces, using skills passed down through the generations. Visit one of the renowned tearooms or just wander & admire the stunning architecture. 

Check out our Tour Calendar to see if your dates are available

The locations you will get out & explore on this cotswold tour day one.

Cotswolds Guided Tours sharing their favourite villages with guests from around the world

Lower Slaughter

A small but perfectly formed village, filled with tiny cottages huddled next to the river. See a beautiful manor house, visit the fabulous old water mill, discover for yourself why this has been voted one of the most romantic streets in England

Private Cotswolds Tour from Moreton in Marsh

 One of our favourite little villages! Snowshill is as pretty as a postcard, with the church in the village centre & cottages huddled against the hillside, make sure you have your camera ready!

Visit Bourton on the Water, most famous village in the Cotswolds with your private Cotswolds tour guide

Bourton on the Water

Often referred to as 'The Venice of the Cotswolds'. This lively village has lots of little stone bridges crossing over the River Windrush. Explore the independent stores, local perfumery, have a morning coffee or visit the 'model village'

Cotswolds Guided Tours

Upper Slaughter 

A doubly thankful village, one of only 13 in the UK. Discover why this village is so special. You may even get to spot a flock of Cotswolds lions! Don't worry they don't bite : )

Cotswolds Guided Tour from Oxford

Time for lunch & a little retail therapy. We stop in the beautiful village of Broadway where there is a huge selection of places to eat. Or if the weather is nice, why not grab a sandwich & relax on the wide village green soaking up the sunshine.

Cotswolds Tour from London, see thatched cottages and pretty Cotswold villages

We will head to the gorgeous village of Stanton! Here you will have time to wander through the streets admiring the Cotswolds architecture & even see some rare, thatched cottages. Learn the villages usual history with your guide on hand to share a story or two! 

The Locations you will get out & explore on this tour! DAY TWO

Private Cotswold tour from Moreton in Marsh

Rollright Stone Circle

Visit the Cotswolds very own version of Stonehenge! This site is set up high on the Cotswolds ridge line, affording amazing views across Oxfordshire, Gloucestershire & Warwickshire. You will discover the fascinating folklore linked to these stones, along with trying the ancient art of dowsing to find 'ley-lines'

Private Costswold Tour Guide, visiting the best market towns like Stow on the Wold

Stow on the Wold

The highest market town in Gloucestershire, Stow on the Wold is filled with an array of small independent stores selling a range of locally sourced items. There is a great selection of eateries & sites to explore, so whether you want a sit-down meal or lunch on the go...this market town has plenty to offer 

Cotswold Thatched Cottage Tour

Tucked away in the glorious Oxfordshire Cotswolds is the beautiful village of Great Tew. Filled with fairy-tale thatched cottages, you feel as though you have stepped back in time & if you spotted someone in period costume they wouldn't seem out of place. A fabulous village to explore!

Dovers Hill, enjoy a day out exploring the English countryside on a private Cotswolds tour from Moreton in Marsh

Dover's Hill

Take some time to soak up the atmosphere at Dover's Hill. Learn the area's quirky history & admire the far-reaching views over the surrounding countryside.

Visit hidden villages on your Cotswolds Guided Tour

This hidden gem of a village is off the main tourist trail but hides two fabulous literary links. The first is to one of the UK's most celebrated poets, Edward Thomas. The second link is to the wonderful Jane Austen. Walk in her footsteps through a village unchanged by the passage of time. 

Cotswold day tour, visit Chipping Campden with your private tour guide

Chipping Campden

For lovers of architecture, you can't miss a stroll along Chipping Campden's main street. Pop into the famous 'Wool Church' & if you haven't seen enough thatched cottages then you can enjoy finding some more on the outskirts of this little town!

Best Private Cotswolds Tour Guide

Lucy & Richard Lambert, run an award-winning guided tour company specialising in creating memorable day trips around the Cotswolds.

Cotswolds Guided Tours is designed by local husband & wife team, who love where they live & have a passion for the region, they call home. Sharing the famous villages, the hidden gems, travelling down quiet country lanes & revealing the quirky history that makes this part of England so special.

Having achieved over 800, 5* reviews in 5 years they have met thousands of guests from around the world. Their unrivalled customer service & thoughtfully curated tours have ensured guests finish their day, happy, fulfilled & full of wonderful memories.

Tours can accommodate up to 7 guests, luggage storage available, hotel collection from the North Cotswolds or rail station is included in the tour price. Child safety seats available on request. Lots of free time for self-exploration. Maps of locations provided. Live & entertaining microphone commentary as guests travel. Carefully curated routes to ensure guests spend the minimum amount of time in transit & the maximum amount of time out exploring the villages.

Extra Information

Total 2 day tour price = £800  per vehicle for up to 7 guests.

Two day 6 hour Cotswolds tour is priced at £800 for up to 7 guests.  Tour includes collection & return from your North Cotswolds accommodation or if you are arriving by train from London, Oxford or Reading we can collect you from

Moreton in Marsh railway station. Tour price does not include lunch / refreshments

Tour Itinerary

Day 1: This Cotswolds tour visits 6 wonderful Cotswolds villages

you will have free time to explore at each stop:

1. Lower Slaughter - 25 minutes

2. Bourton on the Water - 50 minutes

3. Upper Slaughter - 15 minutes

4. Snowshill - 20 minutes

5. Broadway, this is the lunch stop location

where you will have 90 minutes

6. Stanton - 35 minutes

Day 2: This Cotswolds tour visits 6 stunning Cotswold locations

1. Rollright Stones - 25 minutes

2. Great Tew - 25 minutes

3. Adlestrop - 25 minutes

4. Stow on the Wold - this is the lunch stop location

5. Dover's Hill - 15 minutes

6. Chipping Campden - 50 minutes

Times at each stop have been designed based on the size of the villages. Tiny villages have less time & larger stops

you have more time to explore. You will enjoy live commentary on route to each location from your driver guide, along with maps at each stop highlighting points of interest.

Tour Collection Points

Free collection points.

Moreton in Marsh 

Moreton in Marsh Railway Station for guests arriving by train

Chipping Norton

ADDITIONAL COLLECTION POINTS WITH AN EXTRA CHARGE

Burford - £30 each way

Cheltenham - £40 each way

Winchcombe - £35 each way

Stratford Upon Avon - extra £40 each way

Cirencester - £40 each way

Banbury - £40 each way

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To the Cotswolds- 2 Day Cotswolds Itinerary

May 7, 2023 by Ginny Dyer Leave a Comment

cotswolds 2 day trip

This is the first post in a string of posts of my travels through Europe this spring, 2023.  I’ll be sharing where we stayed, what we did, the best food and how we got to each place. Thanks for reading along! I hope this helps if you’re interested in going to any of these travel destinations yourself!

Where we stayed in the Cotswolds: Manor House Hotel in Moreton in Marsh

What to do in the Cotswolds: walk the main strip in Moreton in Marsh, explore Castle Combe, lunch at the Manor House in Castle Combe, explore the Manor House gardens

Favorite food in the Cotswolds: breakfast, lunch and dinner at the Manor House Hotel in Moreton in Marsh, lunch at Manor House in Castle Combe

Day 1 Fly to London

We flew into London on a red-eye. We used London as our starting point because I was able to find the cheapest direct flights from Florida to London. We spent just one day in the city and because we saw most of the major sites on our first visit, we wanted to spend our time just enjoying casually walking around and seeing some sites. (We will be doing the Harry Potter studio tour on the tail end of our trip, the day before we go home, so stay tuned for that!)

I thought I’d go ahead and include in each blog post how we actually got from point A to point B, just in case anyone is interested in the logistical parts of our itinerary. This is something I was really interested in knowing, and could find little information on. 

We flew into Gatwick and from there took the Gatwick Express to Victoria Station. Then we hopped on the tube to Picadilly Circus, where our hotel was. I will say, navigating the tube with a lot of luggage was really stressful and I will never do that again. We took Ubers after this because it was just too much to handle.

cotswolds 2 day trip

We stayed at Zedwell Picadilly. It was central to everything we wanted to see, but Piccadilly Circus is a bit annoying to navigate when jet lagged, or just in general. I would not stay here again for that reason, even if we had to take longer Uber rides to get to everything. 

cotswolds 2 day trip

We just walked around for a bit, saw Big Ben and the gardens right by Buckingham Palace. We got tea at a cute shop called Linnean and then headed to our hotel to get to bed early. Jet lag definitely hit harder on this trip.

cotswolds 2 day trip

Day 2 Drive to the Cotswolds

Our original plan was to take a  train and head from London to the Cotswolds, but the line was down and we did not know that until getting to the station. That was a bit of challenge and made our morning longer than expected. We ended up renting a car and driving instead, which actually worked out better than if we had taken the train. (If you are interest though, there is usually a train that leaves from Paddington Station that goes to Moreton-in-Marsh.) 

cotswolds 2 day trip

I had been dreaming of going to the Cotswolds for years and it was everything I hoped it would be and more. We stayed at the lovely Manor House Hotel in Moreton in Marsh. It was the perfect, quintessential Cotswold experience I was hoping for. The hotel is an old manor and decorated in modern yet classic English country style. It was absolutely adorable inside, but the outside courtyard really stole the show. The lawn was the softest, greenest grass ever, and the patio had lush greenery everywhere. We had cappuccinos and delicious homemade shortbread cookies outside upon arrival, and it was so nice to just sit and listen to the song birds flying around and take everything in. The town’s beautiful church can be seen from the hotel lawn, and it was magical to hear the bells ring on the hour while walking through the garden. The staff were incredibly kind and made our stay all the better. Coming from London, it was a completely different energy entirely. Everything was slow paced and so relaxing. Much more to my liking.

cotswolds 2 day trip

We ate at the hotel restaurant for dinner both nights of our stay in the Cotswolds and it was superb. The dinning room looks like a greenhouse from the outside and just adds to the hotels overall charming aesthetic. The filet and peppercorn sauce was *chef’s kiss*. A lovely breakfast spread was included with our stay and was such a perfect way to start our days. I absolutely loved our stay here.

Day 3 Explore Castle Combe 

cotswolds 2 day trip

Because we rented a car, we were able to drive through the countryside and see more of the beautiful towns that make up the Cotswolds. From Moreton-in-Marsh we drove an hour and a half to Castle Combe, which is just a fairytale in real life. Every inch of the town was stunning, with honeycomb colored houses, the cutest bridge over a little river, and the stately Manor House towards the end of town.

cotswolds 2 day trip

We explored the town and then headed to the Manor House for lunch which was just so elegant. We enjoyed lunch and coffee inside a little drawing room that overlooked the front entrance of the manor. After lunch we explored the grounds, which were just breathtaking. The gardens were full of beautiful stone structures, tall hedges, colorful flowers and little stone walking paths. What a lovely place. We headed back to Moreton-in-Marsh from there, had dinner at our hotel and turned in early for the night, to get ready to leave for Paris in the morning!

cotswolds 2 day trip

Tying it All Together 

Overall, the Cotswolds were amazing and I would definitely return to see more of the towns and sites. It’s a perfect place to visit if you’re interested in slow paced living, beautiful scenery and quaint little towns. I would highly recommend a stay at the Manor House Hotel in Morton-in-Marsh , but the Manor House in Castle Combe was lovely as well. I think renting a car is essential to seeing the Cotswolds properly, and I would do that again when we return. One thing to note: if you are driving through the center of London to pick up or drop off a rental, you do have to pay a congestion charge, which was 15 pounds at the time of our visit. I hope this post is helpful if you are thinking of taking a quick trip to the Cotswolds from London!

cotswolds 2 day trip

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Where to stay 2 nights in Cotswolds as homebase - Cotswolds Forum

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7 replies to this topic

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I like Stow on the Wold and would be happy to base myself there as my base for the Cotswolds.

There is nothing wrong with Stow, very pretty place.

With such limited time to see a large area, do not try to cram in too much, The Slaughters are not too far away and are beautiful villages.

Agree with above guidance. Slaughters and the Swells are very near each other and all beautiful. Makes for a beautiful drive with photo ops and relaxing pace. Stow has several very good hotels and many restaurants from which to choose. This is northern Cotswolds and not that near Castle Combe. But if CC is a must-do, you could start your tour of the northern Cotswolds in Bourton-OTW and make your way through the above-mentioned villages from there.

It would be best on such limited time to visit Castle Combe from Bath and make your way northwards to your preferred accommodation.

Castle combe is beautiful and will only require 2 hours of your time as too will Lower and Upper Slaughter.

Agree re the suggestion of Stow; a most pleasant spot.

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You could splash out on the Lygon Arms in Broadway, always popular with our American cousins. In which case don't miss the Fleece Inn in Bretforton.

John R has made 2 good suggestions.

The Lygon Arms is a very impressive building where the rich and famous have frequented but give me The Fleece Inn at Bretforton any day!

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cotswolds 2 day trip

England Itinerary: 7 Days in England

1 week in england itinerary.

I ’m glad you’ve decided to come to England! There are so many great reasons to visit England , and I’ve tried to fit them all into a week’s itinerary. Starting in London and adding Bath, Bristol, the Cotswolds, and the Peak District – this England itinerary will take you through some of the best spots in the country.

This England itinerary includes:

Peak District

I’d recommend doing the first half by public transport and then hiring a car to see the Cotswolds and the Peak District. There’s more on that decision below, but it’ll allow you to see all the more.

Day 1 in London

Starting your England itinerary You’ll fly into London, so let’s go there first. After checking into your hotel and freshening up it’s time to get out and see the city. You haven’t got long, so I’d recommend staying central. Take a look at some great Hotels in Central London .

If it’s your first time in London you’ll want to hit up all the big sights on your days out in London. Be prepared for lots of walking!

Pro Tip: If you plan to visit a lot of attractions and museums, the London Pass might be a great way to save money. It gives you access to 80 attractions and you can use the Hop on Hop off bus to get around. Buy the London Pass here >>

Buckingham Palace

Head straight to Buckingham Palace and look round the Queen’s digs to see where the British Royal Family have lived since the start of time. There’s usually a special exhibition on here, featuring fashion or jewelry collections from the past. Check out the Buckingham Palace website for details.

If this is your first time in London, make sure you don’t miss the Changing of the Guards.

Westminster

From here walk through the gardens to Westminster. Here you can see the iconic Big Ben clock, Westminster Abbey where Prince William and Kate got married and the Houses of Parliament. Up to you whether you fancy going in any of them, or they’re good enough to just admire from the pavement.

Once you’re done, walk across the bridge and you’ll get to South Bank. Make sure to take the time to admire the views from the bridge though – London looks its best on a summer’s day down here.

On the South Bank you could visit the London Aquarium, the London Eye, get a bite to eat at the South Bank Food Market (depending on the day and time of year) or just enjoy sitting around and admiring the book market and street performers. Look over the Thames and you’ll see the MI5 building – famously featured regularly on James Bond.

Borough Market

Walk another 25 minutes from here, or catch a red London bus, and you can visit the famous Borough Market. This is where you can try some of the best local food in London. Don’t eat too much though as you’ll want to save for dinner and a show in Soho tonight.

London’s West End is famous the world over. Here you can see shows like The Lion King, Mamma Mia, Matilda and Phantom of the Opera. Search around online for a deal which includes food, as there are some great places to eat in Soho. If you have trouble, then just head to ChinaTown. In recent years it’s more of an ‘Asia Town’, with offerings from Vietnam, Japan and Taiwan too.

If you’ve still got the energy for a night out, then the bars and clubs of Soho will welcome you with open arms! One of my faves is the karaoke at Lucky Voice. Check it out!

Day 2 in London

If you like shopping then Oxford Street and Piccadilly are good fun, but if you’re not really bothered then this is an opportunity to see some more of London. There’s so much to do in the city, but I think these are the key sights. If you need more ideas for a day out in London , check out my post.

I’d recommend you go to Hyde Park though. It’s so nice up here and you can wander around the Serpentine Gallery and the coffee shop there. If you want to see Hyde Park in a different way, then hire some rollerskates and you’ll cover more ground.

In or around Hyde Park you can see Kensington Palace, the Royal Albert Hall, the Royal Geographical Society and the Victoria and Albert Museum.

Notting Hill

If you’re in London on the weekend, jump on the tube (the London Underground) to Notting Hill. Here you’ll find all kinds of antique shops and trinkets, and some great places for brunch. It’s also one of the best places in London for street photography if that’s what you’re into.

Camden Market

You can easily get the tube from here up to Camden. Camden Market is world-famous – here you can get pierced, pick up some neon studded clothes from cyberpunk, and get a tasty bite to eat to enjoy by the canal. It’s also close to Regent’s Park, where you can just wander and enjoy the green space.

Or, you can pay to get into London Zoo and enjoy the thousands of animals who call it home. From Regent’s Park you can wander up to Primrose Hill, which offers some of the best views of North London. It’s also a pretty area to pick up a bite to eat.

I’d recommend a night out in Camden to finish off your two days in London. This is where you’ll find the rockers, the musicians and the creatives. Head to Purple Turtle and The World’s End for the best nights out!

Day 3 in Bath

Right, you can either hire a car, or just get the train – up to you. Today we’re going to go to Bath Spa for a day trip. It’s an hour and a half on the train, to the other side of the country, or about two hours driving. Bath is a UNESCO World Heritage Site .

The ancient Roman Baths here date back to around 65 AD. The city is built on hot springs, and you can visit the sites where Romans would relax and replenish in the hot waters.

You can’t swim in the old ones anymore, but there are plenty of new spas set up around the city where you can enjoy the natural healing properties. The best-known spa in Bath is Thermae Spa – it’s also the most luxurious. They have an open swimming pool on the top floor and plenty of rooms for spa treatments and experiences inside. You’ll need to book in advance to visit here.

Apart from all the spas, Bath is a great city to wander around and there are plenty of things to do in Bath . All the British High Street favorites are here, as well as boutique shops and cute and unique places to eat. The city is beautiful and there are some great walks around where you can look down into the valley. One of the top photo spots is at the Pulteney Bridge, looking down the River Avon.

Enjoy a more relaxed evening here, with the rooftop restaurant at Hall and Woodhouse. They serve great cocktails, a wonderful menu and it’s right in the heart of the city. Also, read my post on one day in Bath . And if you decide to spend the night in Bath, take a look at these recommended hotels in Bath .

Day 4 in Bristol

Enjoy a good breakfast in Bath – maybe at Sally Lunn’s so you can try the traditional Sally Lunn bun – and then it’s time for Bristol! Bristol is just 12 minutes on the train from Bath, or 40 minutes in the car, but it’s a whole other vibe.

Top Sights in Bristol

Bristol is known as the cool, creative part of England. In recent years house prices have gone through the roof as so many people want to live there. It’s the place to live in England right now.

You’ll need to fit in all the top sites in the city during your 24 hours here, including the Clifton Suspension Bridge, Clifton, the city center, Stokes Croft, the Science Museum and Bristol Museum too. I’d strongly recommend you walk the route, that way you’ll get to see a whole bunch of amazing Bristol attractions along the way.

Other things to see in Bristol include Cabot Tower – built in the 1890s to commemorate the 400th anniversary of the journey of John Cabot from Bristol to land, which later became Canada. Nowadays you can climb up it and enjoy the views out to the city.

Also, Bristol Zoo Gardens. This is the fifth oldest zoo IN THE WORLD, having opened in 1836. Since then the zoo has saved over 175 species from extinction. Visit and you can see red pandas, tree kangaroos, and gorillas too.

Stokes Croft Bristol

End up in Stokes Croft on your day in Bristol, as this is where you’ll have the best night out. This is where the independent traders are, and in the summer there’ll always be a beer garden party you can join. You could either stay in Bristol that night or just head back to your hotel in Bath on the train. It’s really not far and saves the worry of your luggage!

Day 5 in the Cotswolds

You can do the first five days using public transport very easily, in fact, I’d recommend it. But from this point I’d recommend you hire a car from either Bristol or Bath to really make the most of the Cotswolds and the Peak District. It’s a bit of a mission to use public transport to get from Bristol to the Cotswolds, whereas if you travel by car you can be there in 20 minutes.

The Cotswolds are an established Area of Natural Beauty (AONB) in England, and made up of small, quaint and very photogenic villages nestled in rolling hills and meadows. It’s much simpler to see by car.

I’d recommend driving to Cirencester to start your Cotswolds road trip. Cirencester is seen as the capital of the Cotswolds and it’s the busiest area. Head to Jack’s Cafe for a great breakfast to set you up for the day. Also, wander around Cirecenster a bit – lookout for the famous Fleece Restaurant, and the cute photo spots around the village.

Best Cotswold Villages

There are lots of great places to visit in the Cotswolds on a day out. Top of the list of best best places to visit in the Cotswold to add to your Cotswolds road trip though, and in order from Cirencester are:

  • Bibury: the most photogenic spot in the Cotswolds. Arrived early to beat the crowds wanting to take the same photo of the same run of houses.
  • Burford: totally underrated village, but also, cute houses galore! Stow on the Wold – famous for the pretty church, and church door. Looks like something from Lord of the Rings.
  • Chipping Campden: here you’ll find some pretty boutique food and clothes shops, nice traditional English pubs and an old market place.
  • Winchcombe: if you like castles, this is the Cotswolds village for you. Sudeley Castle dates back over 1000 years and is the number one place to see in Winchcombe.
  • Cheltenham: then you can spend the night in the famous village of Cheltenham. This town is famed for its literary festival, and its horse racing, but aside from that is a spa town filled with regency buildings. You can enjoy a lovely evening here before you retire to sleep. I’m sure you’ll be tired by now. Oh, and you have the longest drive in the morning, so don’t drink too much Champers!

Day 6 in the Peak District

It’s a 2.5 hour drive to the Peak District, to Bakewell to be precise. The Peak District is one of England’s 10 National Parks, and the nearest one to where I grew up.

The Peak District is great – you can do all kinds of outdoor activities here. From cycling to hiking, to hang gliding and cable cars. Most of the activities are centered in Edale, the foodie delights in Bakewell, and the kids activities in Matlock – but I’d recommend driving round to see the stunning vistas the Peak District has to offer. If you want to know more about how to spend your day in the Peak District, then click through to my blog post.

As well as all the outdoor activities, there are also gardens to see, the stunning Chatsworth House to look round, and the underground caves to walk through. The Peak District is a really beautiful part of England, and a great chance to suck up some fresh English air before your plane journey back home.

Day 7 Return to London

Relax and head back to the airport I’d recommend a lie-in on your final day, and enjoy a good breakfast. And then maybe a short hike from Matlock to Matlock Bath to leave you feeling revitalized? It’s a three-hour drive back to London from Bakewell, straight down the M1.

Whipsnade Zoo

If you have a late flight then there are still a few gems in England to end your trip with. How about Whipsnade Zoo in the Chiltern Hills Area of Natural Beauty? It’s the UK’s biggest zoo and home to all kinds of exotic animals – including giraffes and penguins.

Wizarding World of Harry Potter

Or, you could go to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at the Warner Bros Studio in Watford. This is where some of the set from the Harry Potter series has ended up, and you can immerse yourself into Harry’s world.

It really is an incredible experience, even if you’re not really that into Harry Potter. They take you through how they made some of the animals, and you get to have a butterbeer. Buy your Wizarding World of Harry Potter tickets here >>

The third option is to visit Windsor and Queen Elizabeth’s famous Windsor Castle . It’s here that she spends most of her time, and it’s also where Prince Harry and Meghan got married back in 2018.

Visit for a few hours and you can see the banqueting rooms enjoy watching the changing of the guard and just walk the grounds of one of the most important buildings in the UK.

Windsor is a really nice town in itself, and has plenty of shops, restaurants and bars to keep you entertained. Windsor is only a 20-minute drive to Heathrow, making for the perfect stop off before your flight.

I hope you’ve enjoyed your week’s itinerary for England. There’s so much to do here, but I think with careful planning using this itinerary, you can see a lot of the country and make some wonderful memories.

This 7 Days in England Itinerary was written by Victoria Philpott, from DayOutinEngland.com . The essential resource for guides and itineraries to England’s best days out. Searchable by interests, counties, cities, and areas – they’re definitely not just for the kids! Also follow her on Facebook , Instagram , and Twitter .

England Itinerary – One Week in England: Pin for Later:

Are you planning a quick trip to England? Here is our 7 Day England Itinerary, written by a local, that will give you a taste of England.

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Loudi Getaway: A 2-Day Journey Through Nature and History

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February 22, 2024 · 2 min read

Loudi 2 Days Itinerary

Embark on a 2-day adventure in Loudi, a city that offers a unique combination of natural wonders and historical significance. Begin your journey at Daxiong Mountain National Forest Park, where you can immerse yourself in a day of tranquility and scenic beauty in Xinhua, Loudi. Afterward, delve into the subterranean marvels of Meishan Dragon Palace for an hour of exploration. Day one continues with a visit to the Former Residence of Mao Zedong in Shaoshan, offering a glimpse into the life of this influential figure. Conclude the first day with a two-hour visit to the Former Residence of Zeng Guofan in Heyezhen, Shuangfeng, where history comes alive. The second day is equally thrilling, starting with a two-hour geological adventure at Meijiang Geology Park in Lianyuan City. Finally, spend the rest of your day marveling at the breathtaking Ziquejie Terrace in Xinhua, an agricultural masterpiece that showcases the harmony between man and nature. This 2-day Loudi itinerary promises a memorable mix of serene landscapes and enriching cultural experiences.

hotelStar

  • Day 1: Exploring the Natural and Historical Gems of Loudi

Daxiong Mountain National Forest Park

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Kickstart your Loudi adventure with a full day immersed in the lush landscapes of Daxiong Mountain National Forest Park. Nestled in the heart of Xinhua, this verdant oasis offers a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Traverse through the dense forests, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and let the serene environment rejuvenate your spirit. The park's expansive grounds are perfect for a day of exploration and connecting with nature.

Attraction Info

  • Xinhua, Loudi, Hunan, China
  • Suggested tour duration: 0.5-1 day
  • Open on Mon-Thu,8:00am-7:00pm;Open on Fri-Sun,8:00am-10:00pm

Meishan Dragon Palace

After a day surrounded by the tranquility of Daxiong Mountain, shift gears to the mystical allure of Meishan Dragon Palace. Just a short journey from the forest park, this enchanting cave complex in Xinhua is a marvel of natural limestone formations. Spend an hour wandering through the caverns, where the play of light and shadow on the stalactites and stalagmites creates an otherworldly atmosphere.

  • Suggested tour duration: 1-2 hour
  • Open from 1/1-12/31,8:30am-5:00pm

Recommended Nearby Restaurants

百信土菜馆(梅山龙宫店)

Former Residence of Mao Zedong

Continuing the journey through Loudi's rich tapestry of history, the Former Residence of Mao Zedong offers a glimpse into the life of one of China's most iconic figures. Located in Shaoshan City, this well-preserved site serves as a poignant reminder of the past, allowing visitors to walk through the rooms and corridors where the young Mao once lived. Spend an hour here to soak in the historical significance and the humble beginnings of a man who shaped the nation.

  • Shaoshan City, Xiangshan City, Shaoshan City, County 037
  • Open from 8:00am-4:00pm

肯德基(韶山景区店)

Former Residence of Zeng Guofan

Conclude your first day's exploration with a visit to the Former Residence of Zeng Guofan in Heyezhen, Shuangfeng. This two-hour stay will transport you back to the Qing Dynasty, where you can explore the traditional architecture and learn about the life of one of China's most respected statesmen. The residence stands as a testament to Zeng Guofan's legacy and offers an intimate look at the cultural heritage of Loudi.

  • Heyezhen, Shuangfeng, Loudi, Hunan, China
  • Suggested tour duration: 2-3 hour
  • Open from 8:30am-5:30pm

格格小厨

Where to Stay Tonight

Lianxiang hotel, shuangfeng xinxing hotel, twin peaks polytechnic college hotel, lianxiang mountain villa hotel.

  • Day 2: Geological Wonders and Terraced Marvels in Loudi

Meijiang Geology Park

Kickstart your second day with the awe-inspiring Meijiang Geology Park, a natural museum showcasing the wonders of geological formations. Nestled in the Meijiang Scenic Area of Lianyuan City, this park offers a two-hour journey through time, where you can marvel at the intricate rock layers and learn about the Earth's dynamic history. The park's unique landscape, characterized by its karst formations, is a visual treat for nature enthusiasts and geology buffs alike.

  • Meijiang Scenic Area, Lianyuan City, Loudi City
  • Open from 9:00am-4:00pm

餐餐有味

Ziquejie Terrace

After delving into the ancient rocks of Meijiang, prepare to be mesmerized by the Ziquejie Terrace, a day-long escapade into the heart of Loudi's agricultural heritage. Located in Xinhua, these sprawling terraces paint a picture of precision and perseverance, carved into the hills over centuries. As you traverse the stairway-like fields, the Ziquejie Terrace offers a breathtaking panorama that blends human ingenuity with natural beauty, making it a must-visit for photographers and culture seekers.

  • Suggested tour duration: 1-2 days
  • Open from 7:00am-10:00pm

ZI QUE JIE TU CAI GUAN

Hai'Ou Farmhouse

Longfeng manor, xinhua zixuan fishing village restaurant homestay, ziquelou hotel, top things to do in loudi-2024.

Ziquejie Terrace

Ziquejie Terraces is a globally important agricultural cultural heritage, a world irrigation engineering heritage, a national natural and cultural heritage site, a national scenic spot, a national water conservancy scenic spot, and a national AAAA tourist attraction.

Located in Shuiche Town, Xinhua County, Hunan Province, it belongs to the Fengjiashan System of the Xuefeng Mountains. The highest point is 1,585 meters above sea level and the total area is 120 square kilometers. Layers upon layers of terraced fields stretch around with Ziquejie as the center, between 500 meters and 1,200 meters above sea level, with slopes between 30 and 50 degrees, with a total of more than 500 levels and an area of ​​more than 100,000 acres. The Qin people’s rice terraces in Ziquejie are a historical relic of the integration of southern rice farming culture and Miao-Yao mountain fishing and hunting culture. They are a great masterpiece between man and nature.

The Ziquejie Rice Terraces combine the grandeur of the Yuanyang Rice Terraces in Yunnan, the elegance of the Longsheng Rice Terraces in Guangxi, the steepness of the Banaue Rice Terraces in the Philippines, and the elegance of the Shaba Rice Terraces in Vietnam. It is known as the "Terrace Kingdom". The original beauty, morphological beauty, cultural beauty, long history and natural gravity irrigation system of the terraces are world-class.

Former Residence of Zeng Guofan

* All user reviews in this article have been translated by machine.

* The information above is subject to change at any time. For the latest information, please check the websites of hotels and attractions.

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  1. The Perfect Cotswolds Itinerary

    cotswolds 2 day trip

  2. A Perfectly Charming Cotswolds Day Trip Itinerary

    cotswolds 2 day trip

  3. This Cotswolds day trip itinerary will give you what you need to visit

    cotswolds 2 day trip

  4. Searching for the perfect Cotswolds itinerary? The Cotswolds are very

    cotswolds 2 day trip

  5. Day Trips from London: Visiting the Cotswolds

    cotswolds 2 day trip

  6. Two-Day Cotswolds Itinerary

    cotswolds 2 day trip

COMMENTS

  1. The Ultimate 2 to 3 Days in The Cotswolds Itinerary

    Day 2 - Bourton-on-the-Water, Stow-on-the-Wold & More Bourton-on-the-Water . Start the second day of your Cotswolds road trip in one of the region's most beloved locales. Bourton-on-the-Water, known as the 'Venice of the Cotswolds,' is routinely voted one of England's prettiest villages.

  2. 2 Days in the Cotswolds, England

    Blenheim Palace. Blenheim Palace is well worth visiting on any trip to the area. At the end of your 2 days in the Cotswolds, I'd recommend adding in one more stop to Blenheim Palace. Blenheim Palace was one of the largest houses ever built in England at the beginning of the 18 th century.

  3. A Fantastic 2 Days Cotswolds Road Trip

    The Motor Museum is home to a collection of old, rare cars, motorbikes and caravans. The museum also hosts a large toy collection which will bring back a lot of memories to many of us. A ticket to the Cotswolds Motor Museum costs £6.50 for adults and £4.60 for children.

  4. A weekend in The Cotswolds: 2-day Cotswolds itinerary

    Sudeley Castle. And there are 10 different gardens, including the Queens' Garden where you can follow in the footsteps of at least four English queens, a pheasantry and an adventure playground for kids. Look out for special sculptures displays in the grounds too. Then head south past Cheltenham to Cockleford for lunch.

  5. How to Spend 2 Days Driving in the Cotswolds

    Broadway Tower. Head towards the northern border of the Cotswolds to reach Broadway Tower. That's right - the first stop on our driving itinerary that's NOT a village! Broadway Tower was built in 1799 as a Gothic-style folly (a building that had no real purpose). It stands on Broadway Hill, 1,024 feet above sea level.

  6. A Perfectly Charming Cotswolds Day Trip Itinerary

    November 15, 2021January 8, 2019 by Chelsea Lambert. If your vision of an English holiday includes stone cottages, rose gardens, and impossibly charming villages, this Cotswolds day trip itinerary is for you. England's Cotswold region is frequently cited as the most beautiful area in the country. In fact, it's officially designated as an ...

  7. Lady's Itinerary for 2 Days in Bath and the Cotswolds

    Bath and the Cotswolds are easy to visit on one trip. This 2-day itinerary for Bath and Cotswold villages will show you the top places to go. A Lady in London. And Traveling the World ... Today I want to share my itinerary for 2 days in Bath and the Cotswolds with you. This part of England is rife with beautiful streets, picture-pretty villages ...

  8. THE 10 BEST Cotswolds Multi-Day Tours

    These experiences are best for multi-day tours in Cotswolds: 3Day Tour: LDN Oxford Warwick The Cotwolds & Stratford Upon Avon; 2 Day Tour Cotswolds and Stratford-upon-Avon; Hen & Stag: 3Day Shakespeare's England Tour (Pvt. Group-15 Guest) 5-Day Discover Wales Small-Group Tour from London

  9. 10 Cotswolds Day Trip Itineraries For Every Type of Traveller

    How to take a day trip to the Cotswolds from London. Tips for 1 day in the Cotswolds. #1 - The big names (Bourton, Bibury, Stow and Moreton) #2 - Cotswolds day trip from London by train. #3 - South Cotswolds day trip (Castle Combe & Tetbury) #4 - Painswick & Slad Valley. #5 - North Cotswolds day trip (Bourton, Blockley, Chipping Campden)

  10. Cotswolds Road Trip: 2 days in The Cotswolds

    Day two. Morning: Start day two early in Castle Combe. As one of the most beautiful villages in England, you will want to spend an hour or two wandering around the village and surrounding area. Enjoy the scenery as you take in rows of charming houses, traditional-looking pubs and picture-perfect views.

  11. The Only Cotswolds Itinerary You'll Ever Need

    Cotswold Itinerary Day 2. With another day in this gorgeous part of the UK, it's time to learn more about the history of this area, much of which dates back to Roman times and beyond. ... Oxford, Stratford & Cotswolds Day Trip from London; From Oxford: Cotswold Towns & Villages (small group tour) From London: Full-Day Tour of the Cotswolds;

  12. 2 Day Cotswolds Itinerary for a Tranquil Nature Escape

    2 Day Cotswolds Itinerary for a Tranquil Nature Escape. England, Relaxing Trips. November 3, 2021. After spending a few weeks in London, we were excited to escape the bustling city for the peaceful English countryside. The picturesque villages, gentle rolling hills and grazing sheep sounded something of a fairytale I once read as a kid.

  13. Exploring the Cotswolds in two days

    The Cotswolds are also easily accessible from London, and you can take the train for a trip exploring the Cotswolds in two days. Nearby train stations include Kemble, Stroud and Cheltenham. You can check out train times and prices here. Once you get to the Cotswolds, I'd definitely recommend hiring a car (or driving yourself if you live in ...

  14. The Perfect Weekend Cotswolds Itinerary (2024) + Maps

    If you're staying in the Cotswolds, it's easy to visit both these cities as well as take a scenic day trip to Bath. You can identify the Cotswolds AONB (Area of Natural Beauty) as the area in green on Google Maps. Including towns the Cirencester, Bourton-on-the-Water, Stow-on-the-Wold, the whole Cotswolds region spans more than 2,000km.

  15. Cotswolds Travel Guide (Best Tips, Itineraries & Map)

    Blenheim Palace, Downton Abbey Village & the Cotswolds - A must for Downton Abbey fans this full-day tour includes visits to 2 Cotswolds villages as well as Blenheim Palace the birthplace of Winston Churchill. Oxford, Stratford Upon Avon, Cotswolds, and Warwick - Another full day trip with lots to see. This tour is perfect for those with ...

  16. Cotswold District 2-Day Escape: Palaces, Universities, and ...

    Embark on a 2-day journey through the heart of England's picturesque Cotswold District, where history and charm blend seamlessly. Begin your adventure at the majestic Blenheim Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you'll spend two hours exploring its opulent rooms and sweeping gardens. Next, immerse yourself in the academic atmosphere of ...

  17. Weekend in the Cotswolds itinerary

    The Cotswolds are perfect for a weekend trip, full of beautiful villages, scenic spots and quaint English country pubs. To help you plan your Cotswolds itinerary, here is a local's guide to help you plan a trip for 2 days in the Cotswolds.

  18. Driving the Cotswolds Romantic Road: 2-day Cotswold road trip itinerary

    Cotswolds Romantic Road day 2 The second day on the Cotswolds Romantic Road takes us east of Cheltenham and across the border from Gloucestershire into Oxfordshire. Highlights of today's Cotswold road trip itinerary include Chedworth Roman Villa, Burford and the villages along the Windrush Valley, Lechlade-on-Thames, picturesque Bibury ...

  19. Cotswolds Itinerary: A Fairy-Tale Long Weekend Away (3 Days)

    Alternatively, there is a lovely walk called Bourton and The Slaughters Circular from the nearby Bourton-on-the-Water, which leads through Upper and Lower Slaughter. Route map: The Slaughters Circular. Stow-on-the-Wold to Lower Slaughter: 6 minutes.

  20. 2 DAY COTSWOLD HIGHLIGHTS TOUR

    Total 2 day tour price = £800Per vehicle for up to 7 guests. Two day 6 hour Cotswolds tour is priced at £800 for up to 7 guests. Tour includes collection & return from your North Cotswolds accommodation or if you are arriving by train from London, Oxford or Reading we can collect you from. Moreton in Marsh railway station.

  21. To the Cotswolds- 2 Day Cotswolds Itinerary

    From London, a 2 day Cotswolds Itinerary for the best place to stay, what to see and best food in the Cotswolds. From London, a 2 day Cotswolds Itinerary for the best place to stay, what to see and best food in the Cotswolds. ... (We will be doing the Harry Potter studio tour on the tail end of our trip, the day before we go home, so stay tuned ...

  22. 2-Day Cotswolds, Bath and Oxford Small-Group Tour from London

    Visit the beautiful Cotswolds, Bath, and Oxford on this 2-day small-group tour from London. In two days, discover the handsome Georgian city of Bath, see the ancient stone circles of Avebury, drink in the quaint villages of the idyllic Cotswolds, and visit the medieval university city of Oxford, famous for its golden-stone architecture. An overnight stay in a 3-star hotel or bed and breakfast ...

  23. THE 10 BEST Day Trips from Cotswolds (UPDATED 2024)

    Cotswolds is a great travel destination with a lot to do and see, but sometimes you need to get away and explore the surrounding areas. Book the best day trips from Cotswolds, England directly on Tripadvisor and take the stress out of planning. Read 649,960 traveler reviews and view photos of different trips from Cotswolds to various destinations. Find day trips to take today or this coming ...

  24. Where to stay 2 nights in Cotswolds as homebase

    Where to stay 2 nights in Cotswolds as homebase 2:43 pm; Literary trip Mar 10, 2024; Oxford and Bourton on water day trip Mar 09, 2024; Pubs with rooms near Daylesford Mar 06, 2024; Cotwolds Itinerary Help Mar 06, 2024; Driving through the Cotswolds, Bath to Stratford. Feb 29, 2024; Renting hiking poles Feb 27, 2024; One night in Cotswolds Feb ...

  25. Naples in 2 Days: Ancient Ruins to Coastal Wonders

    February 7, 2024 · 2 min read. Embark on a captivating 2-day journey through the Metropolitan City of Naples, where history and natural beauty intertwine. Begin your adventure at the world-renowned Pompeii Archaeological Park, where an entire day is dedicated to exploring the ancient ruins preserved by the volcanic ash of Mount Vesuvius.

  26. Kaifeng in 2 Days: A Journey Through Time and Culture

    Situated at 26 Yingbin Road, the museum not only showcases the city's glorious past but also serves as a bridge connecting visitors to the profound legacy of this ancient capital. Attraction Info. 26 Yingbin Road, Zhengkai Avenue,Gulou District, Kaifeng City. Suggested tour duration: 2-3 hour. Open on Tue-Sun,9:00am-5:00pm;Closed on Mon.

  27. England Itinerary: 7 Days in England

    Here is our 7 Day England Itinerary, written by a local, that will give you a taste of England.

  28. Yining in 2 Days: A Tapestry of Culture and Scenic Beauty

    February 21, 2024 · 2 min read. Embark on a 2-day adventure in Yining, a city where cultural charm and scenic landscapes intertwine. Begin your journey strolling through the characteristic Han Chinese Street, soaking in the local atmosphere for an hour. Next, immerse yourself in the traditions of the Kazanqi Folk-custom Village, spending two ...

  29. Dodgers Dealing With Illness 2 Days Before Korea Trip

    The Dodgers kick off the 2024 season with a two-game series against the San Diego Padres on March 20 and 21.Tyler Glasnow will start the first game and Yoshinobu Yamamoto will make his MLB debut ...

  30. Loudi Getaway: A 2-Day Journey Through Nature and History

    by Stella. Embark on a 2-day adventure in Loudi, a city that offers a unique combination of natural wonders and historical significance. Begin your journey at Daxiong Mountain National Forest Park, where you can immerse yourself in a day of tranquility and scenic beauty in Xinhua, Loudi. Afterward, delve into the subterranean marvels of Meishan ...