Is there anywhere more quintessentially English than the Cotswolds? Miles of glorious countryside are scattered with perfectly preserved villages and winding country lanes often marked out with iconic Cotswold stone walls.
We recommend starting in Chipping Campden, towards the north of the Cotswolds, before heading south, hopping from village to village as you take in picturesque cottages, medieval churches and all manner of local curiosities on your way to the city of Bath.
The region is recognised as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and promises close encounters with wildlife and a host of birdwatching opportunities at the Slimbridge Wetland Centre. If you’d prefer a more action-packed escape, paddleboarding, kayaking and archery are all available at the Cotswold Water Park.
Cotswolds road trip stop offs
As well as having one of the UK’s prettiest high streets, Broadway is also home to Broadway Tower, from the top of which you can see a staggering 16 counties.
Top tip: In normal circumstances, the Cotswolds plays host to a number of diverse festivals every year, so check ahead and try to coincide your trip with whichever floats your boat, from beer and cider festivals to country shows. Also check your vehicle meets the Bath clean air zone rules before you visit the historic city.
Distance and ideal duration: 70 miles, 3-4 days.
Did you know? The stunning Blenheim Palace, birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill, was apparently earmarked by Nazi leader Adolf Hitler to become his home after invading Britain.
