Discover rolling hills, ancient woodlands, tranquil villages and bustling market towns and enjoy one of England's most treasured landscapes on foot, on horseback or by bike.
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The Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty spans nearly 800 square miles (2,038 square kilometres) of some of the most beautiful countryside in England and is a wonderful place to visit and explore at any time of year. It is a very special area with a timeless appeal, as Matthew Teller describes in his Rough Guide to the Cotswolds: "catch the Cotswolds in the right place, at the right time, and you could almost imagine nothing's changed here in hundreds of years".

Of course it's not just about the scenic and the picturesque. The Cotswolds has hundreds of miles of walking, cycling and riding routes, an amazing variety of events and festivals, mouth-watering local produce and numerous attractions - from historic sites and stately homes to exquisite gardens, farm parks and amazing viewpoints.

If you are looking for a truly peaceful and relaxing holiday, it’s easy to get away from the crowds and explore the quieter tracks, hidden villages and secret corners of the Cotswolds. Using this website you will find lots of information to help you plan your next escape to the Cotswolds - walking routes, free guided walks, cycle rides, horse riding, events and festivals, as well as information on places to visit including towns, villages and attractions.

Upcoming Events

Cotswolds one day photography workshop
20th May 2012 - The Cotswolds
Small group one day landscape photography workshop £140
Coronation Corsage Adult Workshop
20th May 2012 - Corinium Museum, Park Street, Cirencester, Gloucestershire, GL7 2BX
Make a 1950's inspired corsage to wear for the Jubilee celebrations.
Glorious Gardens to Delight
25th May 2012 - 27th May 2012 - Farncombe Estate Centre

Upcoming Walks

22 May 2012 - 10.00
Difficulty Moderate
Duration 4.5 hours
Distance 8 miles
Nearest Town/Village Winchcombe
Starting Point Winchcombe Back Lane (pay & display) car park
First in a series of four circular walks designed to cover the whole of the Wardens & Windrush Ways in sequence. We follow the Windrush Way from Winchcombe to Roel Hill returning via the Wardens Way. Please bring a picnic lunch.
23 May 2012 - 10:30
Difficulty Moderate
Duration 5.5 hours
Distance 7.5 miles
Nearest Town/Village Box, Wiltshire
Starting Point Car park at Selwyn Hall, Box, off A4
For this linear walk from Castle Combe to Box, there will be transport to convey walkers to the start of the walk at Castle Combe. Please book by calling 01453 836221. Pub lunch available. Note later starting time.
25 May 2012 - 10am
Difficulty Moderate
Duration 3 hours
Distance 6 miles
Nearest Town/Village Beech Pike, Elkstone
Starting Point The Highwayman Inn (with prior permission)
Some woods, a park, a lake, a lodge and then back to the Inn.


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Have you got an event/guided walk you wish to advertise here? Visit our Escape to the Cotswolds Discovery centre Cotswolds Interactive Map