Not every walk you undertake has to be an all-day hike that leaves you exhausted for the whole week ahead, sometimes it is nice to take a short stroll, get some fresh air, and fill in countryside views with a small burst of energy. Why not try one of these gorgeous short Cotswold’s walks this weekend?

Belas Knap

Winchcombe is a magnet for hikers from all over the world, surrounded by beautiful countryside in all directions, and with Sudeley Castle a mile away it is a walker’s paradise. The Neolithic chambered tomb of Belas Knap is a real pull to the area too and makes a beautiful short walk. Follow the Cotswold Way through fields before starting the 600ft climb to Belas Knap. Afterward, head west to Cleeve Common with its famous Single Beech and Iron Age hill fort perched on the Cotswold Edge. The views from up here are incredible and reach as far as Wales on a clear day. Follow the path back down to Postlip and back into Winchcombe.

Broadway Tower

The village of Broadway is a must-see if you are heading for the Cotswolds, famous for beautiful Cotswold stone buildings, stunning hotels and restaurants, and many surrounding walks, Broadway Tower being the most popular. This walk centers on the Tower, a late 18th-century folly boasting views across 13 counties. Follow the Cotswold Way Acorn signs from the village center and up the 700ft climb to Broadway Tower.  At the top you can choose to climb the tower or simply soak up the view from the lovely coffee shop. 

Great Tew Park

The village of Great Tew and neighbors Little Tew and Ledwell are medieval thatch-and-ironstone dwellings with rolling limestone pastures, dry stone walls, and fabulous views of the Great Tew Estate itself. There are some incredible walks in this area including Great Tew Park. Follow the lane that runs down the right side of the pub before turning directly south after about a mile. At the road turn right along the south side of the park and follow it to a footpath on your left opposite a T-junction. This heads south and then west to Little Tew and back to your start, making for the perfect short walk. 

Bibury

Described as the most beautiful village in England, Bibury is a must-visit for walkers who want to soak up the chocolate-box charm of the Cotswolds. Stroll along the banks of the River Coln and take in the much-photographed honey-colored 17th-century cottages on the iconic Arlington Row. Head for the Rack Isle water meadow where you can expect to see water-loving plants and birds who thrive in this natural habitat. There are many gorgeous short walks in the Bibury area and it’s a great choice for wildlife lovers. 

Chipping Campden

If you are walking with a four-legged friend then you’ll also find lots of dog-friendly routes. We love Chipping Campden for dog-walking. The Cotswold Way circular walk in Chipping Campden is a relatively short walk that will lead you through this gorgeous market town, around beautiful shaded woodland, and past breathtaking views for 4.5 miles.