The Cotswold Village Trail Ultra

Explore the Cotswolds Village Ultra: A 4-Day Walking Journey in Somerset

The Cotswold Village Ultra is a carefully crafted 4-day walking tour designed for those eager to experience some of the most beautiful and historic villages in the Cotswolds. Priced at $1,198.82 per person, this tour offers a blend of scenic routes, cultural highlights, and charming accommodations. It starts at Moreton-in-Marsh train station and takes participants through picturesque villages including Chipping Campden, Bourton-on-the-Water, and Lower Slaughter.

This tour is ideal for active travelers who enjoy a moderate physical challenge and want to explore at a comfortable pace. The itinerary features detailed route notes and maps, luggage transportation, and local support, making it accessible for most people with a reasonable level of fitness. While it emphasizes scenic walking and cultural sightseeing, it also includes delightful stops like cream teas and visits to iconic churches.

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Key Points

• 4-day guided walking tour through the Cotswolds villages in Somerset.
• Includes 5 nights in charming B&Bs with breakfasts, plus a cream tea and artisanal coffee.
• Total walking distance varies, with one challenging 10-mile circular route on Day 5.
• Highlights include 15th-century St James’ Church in Chipping Campden and the medieval St Edwards Church.
• Transport logistics feature taxi transfers, luggage transportation, and flexible arrangements if walking isn’t possible.
• Small group experience limited to 8 participants with expert local support and route notes.

The Tour’s Starting Point at Davenford Bankview

The adventure begins at Davenford Bankview, where participants arrive for their orientation and receive their welcome pack, maps, and route notes. The meeting point is easy to find, and the process is straightforward, setting the tone for a well-organized experience.

From Moreton-in-Marsh to Chipping Campden and Beyond

On Day One, travelers settle into their B&B accommodation before the walking begins. The second day starts from Chipping Campden, often regarded as the loveliest of the Cotswold towns. A taxi transports participants from Moreton-in-Marsh to the village, where a 7.75-mile walk takes you through Broad Campden, Blockley, and past the Batsford House arboretum and falconry center.

This route combines scenic countryside with charming villages, providing a gentle introduction to the area’s beauty. The walk concludes back in Moreton-in-Marsh, where a second night stay offers relaxation before the next day’s exploration.

Stow-on-the-Wold: The High Wolds and Historic Village Square

On Day Three, the tour crosses the high wolds to reach Stow-on-the-Wold, a village famous for its village stocks and picturesque square. The journey includes a stop at the Sezincote mansion, known for its Mogul architecture, and a selection of pretty hamlets en route.

Arriving in Stow-on-the-Wold before 4 pm allows participants to enjoy a complimentary cream tea at a traditional tearoom. This moment of rest accompanies the chance to explore one of the region’s most iconic villages, with its historic buildings and charming streets.

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Walking from Stow-on-the-Wold to Bourton-on-the-Water

The Day Four route is a relaxed downhill walk across meadows from Stow-on-the-Wold to Bourton-on-the-Water, often called the “Venice of the Cotswolds” for its many bridges and waterways. Along the way, the route passes through Lower Slaughter, renowned for its scenic stone cottages and tranquil streams.

Participants have the afternoon free to enjoy Bourton-on-the-Water’s shops, cafes, museums, and restaurants. The town’s lively atmosphere complements the scenic beauty experienced during the walk.

The Challenging Circular Route on Day Five

The tour’s final day features a 10-mile circular walk from Bourton-on-the-Water to Nuahton, Lower Slaughter, and Upper Slaughter. This route is described as challenging and typically takes around 4 hours and 49 minutes. It offers a mix of meadow landscapes and visits to other notable villages, giving a rundown of the area’s picturesque countryside.

This day provides an opportunity for more experienced walkers to deepen their exploration, with the chance to meet others and enjoy the region’s natural beauty.

Practical Logistics and Support

The tour includes luggage transportation between accommodations, so participants can pack light and walk comfortably. If walking becomes difficult, luggage can be transferred without additional charge. The taxi transfers between starting points and the route are arranged, ensuring smooth logistics.

An orientation meeting with a Cotswold Walks representative occurs at the start, and local support is available from 8 am to 6 pm. The group size is limited to 8 participants, fostering a personalized experience.

Comfortable and Authentic Accommodation

Throughout the tour, 5 nights are spent in charming B&Bs that reflect the local character. These accommodations include breakfasts and are situated in idyllic village settings, enhancing the overall experience. Plus, the tour features a cream tea in Stow-on-the-Wold and artisanal coffee with cake to indulge in local hospitality.

What to Bring and Fitness Level

Participants should bring comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and comfortable clothing suitable for walking. The tour is not recommended for children under 8 or those with a low fitness level, as some routes involve moderate physical effort. The overall pacing is designed to be manageable, but the challenging route on Day Five requires a reasonable level of fitness.

Flexibility and Cancellation Policies

Booking offers a “Reserve now & pay later” option, providing flexibility for travel plans. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making this tour a risk-free option for flexible travelers.

Who Will Enjoy the Cotswold Village Ultra?

This tour is ideal for active travelers who enjoy walking and want to explore the historic villages of the Cotswolds in a relaxed, small-group setting. It suits those who appreciate scenic views, historic architecture, and local hospitality. However, it’s less suitable for children under 8 or individuals with limited mobility or low fitness levels.

Final Thoughts on the Cotswold Village Ultra

The Cotswold Village Ultra offers a well-organized and scenic way to experience the region’s most charming villages over 4 days. The combination of guided walking, comfortable accommodations, and cultural highlights makes it a rewarding choice for those seeking an active, culturally rich escape.

Participants will appreciate the expert support, detailed route notes, and small group atmosphere that enhances the personal experience. While the challenging walk on the last day may require some preparation, most walkers will find the route rewarding and the stops memorable.

This tour stands out for its authentic village visits, scenic countryside, and the opportunity to relax with creamy teas and local hospitality. It’s an ideal choice for those wanting to immerse themselves in the beauty of the Cotswolds at a gentle pace.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of the tour?
The tour costs $1,198.82 per person.

How long is the tour?
It spans 4 days with 5 nights in B&Bs.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Davenford Bankview and ends back at the same meeting point.

What are the main highlights?
Highlights include St James’ Church in Chipping Campden, St Edwards Medieval Church, and walks through Lower Slaughter and Bourton-on-the-Water.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It is not suitable for children under 8 years.

What is included in the package?
Includes accommodation, meals (5 breakfasts, 1 cream tea, artisanal coffee), route notes and maps, taxi transfers, and luggage transportation.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and comfortable clothes suitable for walking.

Is there a guide?
While the tour includes a local representative and an orientation meeting, it is a small group experience with minimal guiding on the route itself.

How physically demanding is the tour?
The route involves some moderate walking, with a challenging 10-mile route on the last day, requiring a reasonable level of fitness.

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