The Cotswolds, a region in south central England, is a popular destination for walking enthusiasts due to its breathtaking landscapes, charming villages, and historic sites. With so many options to choose from, finding the best places to stay in the Cotswolds for walking can be overwhelming. This overview will highlight some of the top locations to consider, ensuring that your walking holiday is both comfortable and unforgettable.
Importance of Choosing the Right Accommodation for Walking in the Cotswolds
Choosing the right accommodation is crucial for a successful walking holiday in the Cotswolds. A well-located and comfortable base will allow you to make the most of your time, reduce travel time, and ensure a good night’s rest after a long day of walking. Factors to consider when selecting your accommodation include proximity to walking trails, public transportation, and local amenities.
Best Places to Stay in the Cotswolds for Walking
Bourton-on-the-Water
Known as the “Venice of the Cotswolds,” Bourton-on-the-Water is an ideal base for walkers. It offers a variety of accommodations, from quaint bed and breakfasts to luxury hotels, and is close to popular walking trails such as the Windrush Way and the Gloucestershire Way. The village itself is worth exploring, with its picturesque bridges and charming stone cottages.
Broadway
Broadway, often referred to as the “Jewel of the Cotswolds,” is another excellent location for walkers. It boasts a wide range of accommodations and is near the Cotswold Way, a 102-mile (164 km) National Trail that offers stunning views of the region. Broadway Tower, a historic folly, is a popular destination for walkers and provides panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
Chipping Campden
Chipping Campden, the starting point of the Cotswold Way, is a must-visit for serious walkers. This historic market town offers a variety of accommodations and is close to several walking trails, including the Monarch’s Way and the Heart of England Way. The town’s historic High Street, with its honey-colored stone buildings, is a delight to explore after a day of walking.
Stow-on-the-Wold
Stow-on-the-Wold, located at the crossroads of several walking trails, is a convenient base for walkers. It offers a range of accommodations, from cozy cottages to upscale hotels, and is close to popular walking routes such as the Gloucestershire Way and the Monarch’s Way. The town’s historic market square, with its ancient cross and medieval buildings, is a charming place to relax after a day of walking.
Winchcombe
Winchcombe, a charming town on the Cotswold Way, is an ideal base for walkers. It offers a variety of accommodations and is close to several walking trails, including the Winchcombe Way and the Wardens’ Way. The town’s historic sites, such as Sudeley Castle and Hailes Abbey, are worth visiting and provide a glimpse into the region’s rich history. (See Also: Best Places To Stay In Crete For Couples)
Introduction
The Cotswolds, located in south central England, is a region famous for its charming villages, rolling hills, and picturesque landscapes. It is a popular destination for walking enthusiasts, with numerous trails and paths that showcase the area’s natural beauty. When planning a walking trip to the Cotswolds, choosing the right accommodation can greatly enhance your experience. This article will explore the best places to stay in the Cotswolds for walking, taking into account factors such as location, accessibility to trails, and amenities.
Bourton-on-the-Water
Bourton-on-the-Water, often referred to as the “Venice of the Cotswolds,” is a charming village located in the heart of the region. It is an ideal base for walkers, with a variety of accommodations to suit different budgets and preferences.
The Riverside
The Riverside is a highly-rated bed and breakfast located in the center of Bourton-on-the-Water. It is situated right on the River Windrush, providing stunning views and easy access to the village’s many walking trails. The bed and breakfast offers comfortable rooms, a hearty breakfast, and a warm and welcoming atmosphere. It is an excellent choice for walkers looking for a convenient and comfortable place to stay.
The Coach and Horses Inn
The Coach and Horses Inn is a traditional English inn located in the heart of Bourton-on-the-Water. It offers cozy rooms, a friendly bar, and a restaurant serving classic pub fare. The inn is located near several walking trails, making it an ideal base for walkers. The inn also has a garden and a terrace, providing a peaceful place to relax after a long day of walking.
Broadway
Broadway is a charming village located on the western edge of the Cotswolds. It is known for its wide high street, lined with honey-colored stone buildings, and its beautiful surrounding countryside. Broadway is an excellent base for walkers, with a variety of accommodations and easy access to numerous trails.
The Lygon Arms
The Lygon Arms is a luxury hotel located in the heart of Broadway. It offers spacious rooms, a swimming pool, a spa, and a fine dining restaurant. The hotel is located near several walking trails, making it an ideal base for walkers. The hotel also offers a concierge service, which can provide maps and recommendations for local walks.
Russell’s of Broadway
Russell’s of Broadway is a boutique hotel located in the center of Broadway. It offers stylish rooms, a cozy bar, and a restaurant serving modern British cuisine. The hotel is located near several walking trails, making it an excellent base for walkers. The hotel also has a garden, providing a peaceful place to relax after a long day of walking. (See Also: Best Places To Stay Arches National Park)
Chipping Campden
Chipping Campden is a picturesque town located in the northern part of the Cotswolds. It is known for its beautiful stone buildings, charming streets, and stunning surrounding countryside. Chipping Campden is an excellent base for walkers, with a variety of accommodations and easy access to numerous trails.
The Noel Arms
The Noel Arms is a historic hotel located in the center of Chipping Campden. It offers comfortable rooms, a cozy bar, and a restaurant serving traditional English cuisine. The hotel is located near several walking trails, making it an ideal base for walkers. The hotel also has a garden, providing a peaceful place to relax after a long day of walking.
The Cotswold House Hotel
The Cotswold House Hotel is a luxury hotel located in the center of Chipping Campden. It offers spacious rooms, a swimming pool, a spa, and a fine dining restaurant. The hotel is located near several walking trails, making it an excellent base for walkers. The hotel also offers a concierge service, which can provide maps and recommendations for local walks.
Conclusion
The Cotswolds is an excellent destination for walking enthusiasts, with its beautiful countryside, charming villages, and numerous trails. When planning a walking trip to the Cotswolds, choosing the right accommodation is an important consideration. Bourton-on-the-Water, Broadway, and Chipping Campden are all excellent bases for walkers, with a variety of accommodations to suit different budgets and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a cozy bed and breakfast, a traditional inn, or a luxury hotel, these villages have something for everyone. By choosing the right accommodation, you can ensure that your walking trip to the Cotswolds is a memorable and enjoyable experience.
FAQs: Best Places To Stay In Cotswolds For Walking
Where is the best place to stay in Cotswolds for walkers?
The Cotswolds is a large area with many beautiful villages and towns that are perfect for walkers. Some of the best places to stay include Bourton-on-the-Water, Chipping Campden, and Broadway, which all have easy access to scenic walking trails. The Slaughters, Stow-on-the-Wold, and Winchcombe are also popular choices.
What kind of accommodation is available for walkers in the Cotswolds?
There are many types of accommodation available for walkers in the Cotswolds, ranging from luxury hotels and bed and breakfasts to self-catering cottages and campsites. Many accommodations offer facilities such as drying rooms for wet clothes and boots, packed lunches, and information on local walking routes. (See Also: Best Places To Stay In Stratford Upon Avon)
Are there any guided walking tours in the Cotswolds?
Yes, there are many guided walking tours available in the Cotswolds. These tours can be a great way to explore the area and learn about its history and culture. Some tours focus on specific themes, such as literary walks or food and drink tours, while others offer more general walks through the beautiful countryside.
What is the best time of year to go walking in the Cotswolds?
The Cotswolds is a beautiful place to walk at any time of year. In the spring, you can enjoy the blooming wildflowers and newborn lambs in the fields. Summer is a popular time for walking, with long days and warm temperatures. Autumn brings stunning colors to the trees, while winter walks can be crisp and invigorating, with the chance to see snow on the hills.
What equipment do I need for walking in the Cotswolds?
The equipment you need for walking in the Cotswolds will depend on the time of year and the type of walking you plan to do. However, some essential items include sturdy walking boots, comfortable clothing, a waterproof jacket, a map and compass, and plenty of water and snacks. It’s also a good idea to bring a first aid kit and a mobile phone for emergencies.
