There are literally hundreds of beautiful walks in the Cotswolds, we are so lucky to be surrounded by exquisite countryside at every turn; from meandering river walks to hills with a view, there are walks for all ability levels and strolls that are sure to please all of the family.  So, when we were asked to pick our top 5 most beautiful Cotswold walks it took some serious decision-making! These were ours, we hope you enjoy them too! 

1. Sherborne Woods Estate 

The Sherborne Woods Estate gardens are one of the best-kept secrets of the Cotswolds and can be found around 3.5 miles east of the gorgeous town of Northleach. Owned by The National Trust this area of beautiful winding pathways is popular with everyone from families to dog walkers and keen hikers. The circular walks here are not long and strenuous and so are perfect for all ability levels and can be nicely coupled up with a visit to Northleach for some well-earned lunch in one of the beautiful pubs and restaurants after your walk.

The three different circular walks start from the estate and meander through the gorgeous Cotswold countryside

2. The Winchcombe Way

Winchcombe is a real jewel of the Cotswolds; a beautiful historic village surrounded by stunning countryside in all directions, it really is a rambler’s paradise. The Winchcombe Way is a figure-of-eight trail with Winchcombe located at the heart of the loop meaning you can use Winchcombe as your base for ending the walk and having some refreshments at one of the gorgeous pubs in the town.  

The Eastern side of the loop follows Farmcote Valley before taking you through the quiet country lanes of Guiting Wood, the Cotswold escarpment, and on to Stanway House, past Hailes Abbey. The Western loop takes you down Langley Hill before continuing to Gretton, Alderton, Alstone, and onto Cleeve Common. Both routes are equally beautiful and we would advise doing both if you have the time! 

3. Tetbury to Westonbirt

Westonbirt Arboretum is a beautiful spot for all of the family and really does need to feature in our top 5 most beautiful walks in the Cotswolds. This walk from the gorgeous Cotswold town of Tetbury is perfect for discovering both Tetbury and Westonbirt. The route itself is flat and gentle and easy enough for kids and adults alike and is certainly buggy and wheelchair friendly.

The 600-acre National Arboretum is home to more than 15 thousand different tree types from all over the world and teaming a walk with a mooch around Tetbury and some lunch in one of the gorgeous beer gardens makes for a really beautiful day out. 

4. Leckhampton Hill

If you love a walk with a view then we couldn’t recommend the Leckhampton Hill loop more. This circular walk that is attached to The Cotswold Way features some of the most breathtaking views and varied landscapes in the Cotswolds with views out over the valleys of Cheltenham and Gloucester. The loop is around 4 miles long and passes iron-age remains and disused quarries established in the Victorian era making for a really interesting hike.  

Passing through grasslands and peaceful woodlands you’ll cover a couple of steep sections but nothing too strenuous and on average this walk will take you two and a half hours to complete but don’t forget to leave time to sit and chill and soak up the views! Lots of people pack picnics on a sunny day and find a spot with a view for lunch once they have completed their walk. 

5. Chipping Campden Trail

If you are visiting the Cotswolds then you will certainly want to check out Chipping Campden, one of the gorgeous market towns with boutique shops, restaurants, pubs, hotels, tearooms, and many gorgeous walks. The Chipping Campden Trail is around 4.5 miles long and takes around 2.5 to 3 hours to complete. 

The walk starts and finishes in Cipping Campoden and early on in the walk, you will get to Dover’s Hill, a National Trust area that gives way to beautiful views of the Vale of Evesham. After leaving Dover’s Hill you will pass through leafy woodland into Lynches Wood, a very picturesque spot, and eventually lead back into Chipping Campden.