The Cotswolds along the Great West Way

Uncover the Cotswolds

The Cotswolds is the perfect year-round destination with its blend of stunning scenery, honey-coloured villages alongside cosmopolitan towns and world-class food, accommodation and attractions. The largest National Landscape in England, the southern section of the Cotswolds falls within the Great West Way.

There are some amazing things to do around Bath, making it the ideal starting point for a Cotswolds adventure; discover some of the city’s culinary artisans on a Savouring Bath experience or visit the historic Roman Baths. Perhaps you’d like to pick up the Cotswolds Way in the city and explore the national walking trail as it meanders over 100 miles via Cheltenham, the festival town, to elegant Chipping Campden. Or you could head off on a road trip to visit Box where you will find the Brunel's famous Railway Tunnel, Castle Combe for picturesque views and many other stunning Cotswold towns and villages.

As you explore the Cotswolds, make sure to visit stunning Westonbirt Arboretum, a collection of around 15,000 trees from all over the world, the perfect setting to escape and relax. Not far away you can discover the architectural delights of Tetbury, an historic wool town, and Highgrove Gardens, the private gardens of their royal highnesses The Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall.

Re-discover the joy of nature with Wild Carrot at Chavenage, where you can enjoy guilt-free adventures in the beautiful Cotswold countryside and stay at their carbon negative accommodation.

Immerse yourself in history in ancient Cirencester; discover thousands of objects on display, from Prehistoric tools, Roman mosaics to Medieval sculpture. Every object has a story to tell! Stay overnight in one of the many wonderful hotels in the town and enjoy an evening of entertainment at the Barn Theatre.

Experience the Cotswolds from the water and navigate down the River Thames to Lechlade, or simply enjoy the beauty of the river as you amble along the towpath. When you reach the town you’ll discover a thriving market square and a lively mix of cafes, pubs and shops.

A visit to the Cotswolds wouldn’t be complete without visiting Blenheim Palace. Delve into its 300 year history with a guided tour before exploring some of the 2,000 acres of stunning gardens and landscapes. Stay in one of the luxurious hotels in neighbouring Woodstock to ensure you have plenty of time to enjoy the palace, as well as the town’s vibrant independent shops, boutiques, cafes and restaurants.

Look below to discover more things to do in the Cotswolds on the Great West Way or take a look at our See & Do pages. Alternatively, visit cotswolds.com to find even more exceptional experiences, attractions and places to stay in the Cotswolds.