The Cotswold Village Trail

The Cotswold Village Trail offers a charming way to discover some of the region’s most beautiful villages over 3 days in Somerset, United Kingdom. Priced at $1,010.25 per person, this small-group experience is limited to 8 participants, ensuring personalized attention and a cozy atmosphere. The tour includes 5 on-tour meals—with 4 breakfasts and a traditional cream tea—plus detailed route notes, maps, and two luggage transfers. This tour is perfect for those who enjoy walking, exploring historic sites, and savoring local food, with a flexible cancellation policy allowing for full refunds if canceled up to 24 hours in advance.

While the price might seem significant, the experience offers a well-organized itinerary covering highlights like St James’ Church in Chipping Campden, St Edwards’ Medieval Church, and St Lawrence’s Church in Bourton-on-the-Water. The combination of scenic walks, charming B&Bs, and curated local recommendations makes this tour an attractive choice for visitors eager to enjoy the Cotswolds’ character. However, participants should be comfortable walking up to 9.6 miles on Day Two and be prepared for changing weather with suitable footwear and clothes.

Key Points

• 3-day guided walking tour exploring the picturesque villages of the Cotswolds.
• Visits include Chipping Campden, Stow-on-the-Wold, Bourton-on-the-Water, and more.
• The tour features detailed route notes, maps, and luggage transfers.
• Accommodation involves 4 nights in charming B&Bs in central Stow-on-the-Wold.
• Includes 5 meals: 4 breakfasts and 1 cream tea for a taste of local hospitality.
• The tour operates with small groups limited to 8 participants for a personalized experience.

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Starting at Davenford’s Meeting Point and Ending at the Same Location

The adventure begins at Davenford’s meeting point in Somerset, where travelers check in and receive their welcome pack, maps, and route notes. On the first day, there are no scheduled activities, giving ample time to settle into the charming B&Bs in Stow-on-the-Wold before the walking begins. The tour ends back at the same meeting point after the final day, making logistics simple and straightforward.

This setup benefits travelers who value well-organized transfers and a clear starting and ending location. The small group size enhances the intimate atmosphere, allowing for more tailored interactions with the English guide and fellow participants.

Day One: Arrival and Welcome in Stow-on-the-Wold

Participants arrive at the Moreton-in-Marsh train station and are transferred to their charming B&B in Stow-on-the-Wold. Upon arrival before 5 pm, a welcome drink and homemade cake provide a warm introduction to the tour. The afternoon is free to explore this historic market town, known for its medieval architecture and bustling square.

Stow-on-the-Wold sets the perfect base for the trail ahead, with its mix of traditional pubs, cafes, and artisan shops. The relaxed atmosphere encourages settling in comfortably, ready for the walking adventure the next day.

Day Two: Exploring Chipping Campden and the Scenic Walk

The highlight of Day Two is a 9.6-mile walk starting from Chipping Campden, considered by many as the prettiest of the Cotswold towns. A taxi from Moreton-in-Marsh brings participants to the village, where the morning begins with a close-up look at St James’ Church, a 15th-century structure boasting impressive architecture.

The walk then passes through several scenic villages including Blockley, Bourton on the Hill, Sezincote, and Longborough before concluding in Stow-on-the-Wold. Along the route, participants enjoy references to local history and architecture, with the terrain offering gentle hills and charming countryside views. The day ends with a comfortable stay in a central Stow B&B, allowing for relaxation and reflection.

Day Three: Circular Walk to Broadwell and Oddington

Day Three features a circular walk starting from Stow-on-the-Wold, heading to Broadwell and Oddington. This route offers a more relaxed pace, emphasizing scenic beauty and local charm. A notable stop along the way is Daylesford Organic farm, where visitors can enjoy fresh refreshments and sample organic produce.

In the afternoon, a traditional cream tea awaits in a cozy tearoom, offering a well-earned treat after the day’s walk. This day emphasizes leisurely exploration and tasting the authentic flavors of the Cotswolds, with the opportunity to appreciate the region’s rural character and artisan offerings.

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Day Four: Walking from Stow to Bourton-on-the-Water

The final walking day covers 6.4 miles from Stow-on-the-Wold to Bourton-on-the-Water, often called the Venice of the Cotswolds because of its scenic waterways and bridges. Along this route, travelers will appreciate views of classic Cotswold villages and historic sites, including St Lawrence’s Church in Bourton, a well-known medieval building with a distinctive setting.

The route includes curated local recommendations for pubs, cafes, and artisan shops, ensuring that participants experience the best of Bourton-on-the-Water’s charm. The walk concludes at the village, where a farewell breakfast provides a final taste of the region’s hospitality before transfer back to Moreton-in-Marsh Station.

The Charm of Cotswold B&B Accommodation

Throughout the tour, 4 nights in charming B&Bs serve as comfortable bases, centrally located in Stow-on-the-Wold. These accommodations are included in the price and feature traditional decor and welcoming atmospheres. The option to travel with luggage between accommodations without additional charge** adds convenience for those carrying multiple bags or opting for more flexibility.

Staying in B&Bs allows participants to enjoy a more authentic experience, with opportunities to converse with hosts and explore local neighborhoods at their leisure.

Practical Details: Transport, Group Size, and Flexibility

The tour includes 2 taxi transfers—from Moreton-in-Marsh to Chipping Campden at the start, and from Bourton-on-the-Water back to the station at the end. Luggage transportation is arranged, making long walks more manageable. The small-group format, limited to 8 participants, ensures personalized attention, relaxed pacing, and the chance to connect with like-minded travelers.

For those concerned about physical demands, the optional luggage transfer provides flexibility if walking the entire route proves challenging. The activity is conducted in English, with an available local representative from 8 am to 6 pm to assist with questions or emergencies.

Pricing, Cancellation, and Booking Flexibility

At $1,010.25, the tour offers good value considering the inclusive accommodation, meals, guides, and transfers. The free cancellation policy allows for full refunds if canceled up to 24 hours in advance, and the reserve now, pay later option offers flexibility for travelers who prefer to secure their spot without immediate payment.

This straightforward booking process makes it accessible for planning even well in advance, especially for those who appreciate flexibility.

The Cotswold Village Trail: An Authentic and Manageable Adventure

The Cotswold Village Trail provides a well-structured experience focused on discovering the region’s scenic villages, historic churches, and charming local life. The small group size enhances the personal touch, while the carefully curated stops ensure an authentic taste of the area.

Participants who enjoy moderate walking, historic sights, and sampling local foods will find this tour rewarding. The inclusion of detailed maps and route notes simplifies navigation, and the luggage transfer adds convenience.

While the price may be a consideration, the combination of craftsmanship, scenic beauty, and local hospitality justifies the investment. This tour is particularly suited to travelers seeking a relaxed pace, cultural richness, and the chance to explore villages that showcase the best of the Cotswolds.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all walking levels?
The tour involves walking up to 9.6 miles on Day Two and 6.4 miles on Day Four, so it is best suited for those comfortable with moderate distances. Luggage transfers help ease the physical demands.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers 4 nights in charming B&Bs, 5 meals (including 4 breakfasts and 1 cream tea), detailed route notes, maps, luggage transportation, and 2 taxi transfers.

Can I cancel the tour easily?
Yes, cancellations made up to 24 hours in advance qualify for a full refund. The booking process also offers reserve now, pay later options for flexibility.

What are the highlights of the stops along the route?
Key highlights include St James’ Church in Chipping Campden, St Edwards’ Medieval Church, St Lawrence’s Church in Bourton-on-the-Water, and Daylesford Organic farm—each offering a glimpse into the area’s history, architecture, and local produce.

The Cotswold Village Trail presents an engaging way to enjoy the region’s historic villages and scenic landscapes in a well-organized, intimate setting. Perfect for those who value comfort, cultural richness, and authentic experiences amongst beautiful countryside.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby