Cotswold Way

Cotswold Way

A magnificent trail showcasing the world-famous Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

4 to 16 nights
26-102 miles
Easy / Moderate to Demanding / Strenuous

From £500 per person

Find your holiday

About the trail

The Cotswold Way covers 102 miles along the western edge of the Cotswold Hills, from the old wool town of Chipping Campden to the historic city of Bath. Unlike our Circular Walks in the Cotswolds, the Cotswold Way cuts south along the Cotswold escarpment, showcasing varied terrain and unforgettable views from atop its heights.

Along its length, this walking holiday encounters tranquil woodlands and sheltered valleys dotted with welcoming towns, villages and hamlets. Each settlement boasts insights into the region’s fascinating past, while the surrounding landscapes also feature a wealth of historical landmarks such as hill forts, castles and ancient battle sites.

We offer multiple holiday options along this trail. If you wish to experience the entire trail, simply select the first option from the list below.

Choose your route

  • This route includes dog friendly tour options Cotswold Way
  • This route includes dog friendly tour options Cotswold Way - South Section
  • This route includes dog friendly tour options Cotswold Way - North Section
  • Cotswold Way Short Break

Dog friendly tours available

Dogs are welcome on select routes along this trail. Look for the pawprint icon when choosing your holiday.

About this route

4 to 7 nights
47 miles
Easy / Moderate to Demanding
2nd January to 24th December
Includes Dog-Friendly Tours

From £515 per person

Cotswold Way - North Section

The North section of the Cotswold Way runs from the ancient market town of Chipping Campden to the quintessentially English village of Painswick.

The trail passes through wonderful green countryside and visits a series of towns and villages, including Stanton, built entirely of Cotswold Stone, and Dowdeswell, boasting fascinating earthworks. This walk also features stunning views from the top of Cleeve Hill, the highest point in all of Gloucestershire, as well as unique glimpses into the region’s turbulent past.

This route can be walked in the opposite direction upon request. Please contact us and we will be happy to assist you.

Walking the Cotswold Way with Contours Walking Holidays

Outdoor Journalist Damian Hall takes a walk from Chipping Campden to the Heritage Listed City of Bath, along one of the most quintessentially English trails in the country.
Watch Now

Available tours

Code Tour Duration Difficulty Price per person
COTWN1 From Chipping Campden to Painswick 4 nights, 3 days walking Demanding £515
COTWN2 From Chipping Campden to Painswick 5 nights, 4 days walking Moderate / Demanding £630
COTWN3 From Chipping Campden to Painswick 6 nights, 5 days walking Moderate £740
COTWN4 From Chipping Campden to Painswick 7 nights, 6 days walking Easy / Moderate £865

Short breaks

Code Tour Duration Difficulty Price per person
COTWSB From Dowdeswell(L) to King's Stanley(L) 4 nights, 3 days walking Moderate £500

Customer reviews from the Cotswold Way - North Section

“The holiday went very well. All the arrangements worked like clockwork and the weather was kind. The route suited the group's expertise/fitness and everyone enjoyed the experience. We were delighted with the way everything came together. Well done!”
Mr McCloskey, UK
“We loved it. We're going to come back and walk the other half.”
Mr Doolittle, USA
“This was the first time that I have been on holiday with my dog. The experience has been wonderful. All arrangements were very efficient. Our three overnight stays were very friendly and very welcoming to our dog. The luggage transfers went without a hitch. The two days walking were just right for us in level and distance. The route was very well marked and the book giving us. Very detailed description of the walk was invaluable. We were very lucky with the weather. I liked the variety of terrain covered. I liked it all.”
Ms Evans, UK
“Everything was well organised and the route enjoyable. We would recommend you on the fact that the accommodation is good and organisation very sound - unlike some of your rivals who we have heard are not very good at all either to the guests or hosts.”
Mr Lee, UK
“The trail and the hotels were good.”
Mss Aardoom, Netherlands
“Excellent holiday, beautiful scenery, spectacular views. The accommodation was varied but always good quality with a good breakfast.”
Ms Way, UK
“It exceeded our expectations in every way. Trekking through England for a week at the peak of spring wildflower bloom was pure joy. And staying at such beautiful and comfortable inns each night was a wonderful reward after a long day's journey. Everything from the customer service to the payment transactions to the trek itself was excellent. I must tell you that some of the B&B's also gave Contours kudos for your great customer service and organization.”
Ms Reynolds, USA
“Thanks a lot for another wonderful vacation. I enjoyed the Cotswolds Way very much.”
Ms Berentsen, Germany
“We greatly enjoyed our recent holiday and were impressed by your organisation. We appreciated the timely provision of comprehensive and details information. We particularly commend the speedy and reliable luggage transfer service by Volunteer Inn.”
Mrs Allison, UK
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