The Cotswolds Way
England
September 6-19, 2027
Trip Overview:
There’s something magical about the Cotswolds in September. The summer crowds have thinned, the air turns crisp in the mornings, and the rolling English countryside begins to shift into warm golds and deep greens. Stone cottages glow in the softer light, hedgerows ripple in the breeze, and every step feels like you’ve wandered into a storybook that somehow still feels lived-in and real.
Our Cotswolds Way journey is a 12-day, ~100-mile trek from Chipping Campden to the historic city of Bath—a route that threads together some of England’s most iconic landscapes and charming villages. Each day, we’ll walk point-to-point along the trail, taking in sweeping views over pastoral valleys, passing through ancient woodlands, and wandering into villages that transport you back in time. Think honey-colored stone houses, ivy-covered pubs, and church bells in the distance.
This is a trek designed for those who want to experience the rhythm of long-distance hiking without sacrificing comfort. After each day on the trail, you’ll settle into locally owned hotels and cozy B&Bs—places with character, and warmth. Luggage transfers allow you to hike freely with just a daypack, so you can stay present with the landscape instead of weighed down by gear and luggage.
Over the course of 12 hiking days, we’ll cover approximately 7–13 miles per day, giving us the space to truly enjoy the journey—pausing for tea in a village café, lingering over views, or simply walking at a pace that feels sustainable and grounding. The terrain is considered easy to easy-moderate, with rolling hills rather than steep alpine climbs, but the distance makes it a rewarding challenge.
What makes this trip special isn’t just the trail—it’s the feeling of moving through a place so rich in history and beauty, day after day, alongside a small group of like-minded travelers. It’s the conversations over dinner, the shared sense of accomplishment, and the way the simplicity of walking creates space for clarity, connection, and a bit of personal reset.
By the time we arrive in Bath—feet tired, hearts full—you’ll have experienced England in a way few travelers do: slowly, intentionally, and deeply.
And it will be hard not to walk away thinking, "This is exactly why I travel."
Trail Specs
Total Distance: ~102 miles
Days on the Trail: 12 trekking days
Highest Elevation: ~1,100 ft
Average Daily Mileage: ~7-13 miles
Terrain: Forested sections, meadows, pasture land, and charming village strolls.
Trail Difficulty: Easy to easy/moderate. While this is a long-distance, multi-day trek, shorter mileages, low elevations, and luggage transfers make this an accessible trek for most hikers.
Weather: Expect a mix of cool mornings, warm afternoons, sunshine, mist and the possibility of prolonged rain--all in one day!
Typical Temperature Range:
• Daytime: 60-70°F
• Nights: 45-60°F
What Type of Challenge Is This?
Physical Challenge:
This trip is designed to be approachable for hikers with a solid fitness base, but it is still a multi-day trekking adventure that requires endurance and preparation. Daily mileage will generally range from approximately 7–13 miles per day across a mix of dirt trails, rolling hills, forest tracks, pasture land, and through villages. While this Comfort Tour removes the burden of carrying a heavy backpack, hikers should still feel comfortable spending consecutive days on their feet for several hours at a time. Consistent training beforehand — especially hiking and walking with elevation gain — will help guests enjoy the experience to the fullest.
Accommodations:
While this is our Comfort Tour, it is important to understand that accommodations along the Cotswolds Way are often small, locally owned, historic, and full of rustic English charm — not luxury resorts. Throughout the journey, we’ll stay in a mix of quaint B&Bs, guesthouses, inns, and historic hotels that reflect the character and culture of the region. Rooms and amenities can vary significantly from place to place, and some properties are quite old by modern standards. Guests should arrive with an open mind, a flexible attitude, and an appreciation for the authenticity and coziness that make these accommodations part of the overall experience. Comfortable? Absolutely. Luxury? Not necessarily — and that’s part of the magic of trekking through the English countryside.
Mental Challenge:
England's weather can shift quickly, and hikers should come prepared for rain, mud, wind, and changing conditions throughout the journey. Flexibility, patience, and a positive attitude go a long way on this trail. The reward comes from slowing down, settling into the journey, and experiencing the Cotswolds one step at a time alongside a supportive group of fellow travelers.
Reward Level:
This is the kind of trek that feels good while you’re doing it—not just after. It’s about pleasurable hiking: the steady rhythm of your footsteps, leaves crunching underfoot, and the quiet, picturesque beauty of the Cotswolds unfolding around every bend. There’s a gentleness to this trail that invites you to slow down, look around, and actually take it all in.
You’ll absolutely finish with a sense of accomplishment—102 miles is no small feat—but the deeper reward is how you feel along the way. A little more grounded. A little more present. Breathing deeper, shoulders softer. The Cotswolds offers a more peaceful kind of adventure—one that restores as much as it challenges.
Itinerary at a Glance
Day 1: Arrival
Fly into London and catch a train to Moreton-In-Marsh. Take time to visit the market square with its popular selection of unique and interesting shops. Quench your thirst at one of the many classic Cotswold pubs and be sure to enjoy a local Cotswold beer. Did you know that The Bell Inn was thought to be the inspiration for The Prancing Pony, the inn conjured up by J.R.R Tolkien for The Lord of the Rings? Enjoy a group dinner with your hiking companions, and your Trip Host and prepare for the start of your journey!
Accommodation in Moreton-In-Marsh
Meals Included: None
Day 2: Chipping Campden to Broadway
Catch your group transfer to the the start of the Cotswolds Way in Chipping Campden. The waymarked way heads out of Chipping Campden to Dover’s Hill – the site of the annual Cotswold Olimpik Games – an event which stretches back nearly 400 years. From there, it’s onwards to the turreted Broadway Tower and its stunning views across what feels like much of South-West England and Wales. Today’s walk continues with a descent into the idyllic village of Broadway and its wide main street flanked by independent shops and cafes. Explore the village at your leisure and rest up after your first day’s adventure.
Distance Hiked: ~10.5 miles
Accommodations: Broadway
Meals included: Breakfast
Day 3: Broadway to Winchcombe
This day on the Cotswold Way meanders through endlessly beautiful scenery in the North Cotswolds. Make time to explore the 13th-century Hailes Abbey before lunching at nearby Hayles Fruit Farm. From there it’s onto the large village (or small town) of Winchcombe. Sudeley Castle in Winchcombe oozes history as does the Neolithic burial site of Belas Knap.
Distance Hiked: ~7.5 miles
Accommodations: Winchcombe
Meals Included: Breakfast
Day 4: Winchcombe to Charlton Kings
From Winchcombe, your walk continues to wriggle South along the Cotswold Way. Today’s destination is the small village of Dowdeswell. The Cotswold escarpment is at its most dramatic here, with far-reaching views over Cheltenham to the River Severn Estuary and beyond. The walk finishes in the village of Charlton Kings.
Distance Hiked: ~12 miles
Accommodations: Charlton Kings
Meals Included: Breakfast
Day 5: Charlton Kings to Birdlip
Leaving Charlton Kings, you’ll quickly come across ‘Devil’s Chimney’, a tor known locally for its excellent views. After pausing here, the path takes a downhill course through Dowdeswell Reservoir. We suggest pausing for a coffee break at Seven Springs, although you’ll find several excellent lunch options here. A notable one is the Star Bistro, which is situated within the magnificent grounds of the Ullenwood estate. Alternatively, you can opt to continue your trek to the National Trust woodland at Crickley Hill, where you’ll find a fantastic café. From there, it’s a short walk to your lodgings in the verdant village of Birdlip.
Distance Hiked: ~12 miles
Accommodations: Birdlip
Meals Included: Breakfast
Day 6: Birdlip to Painswick
The morning hike takes you past the remnants of an ancient Roman villa at Great Whitcombe, followed by a picturesque walk along Cooper’s Hill – renowned globally for the maverick ‘cheese-rolling’ event. After feasting a delicious lunch at the Royal William pub, you’ll trek uphill towards the Painswick Beacon, where you can explore an Iron Age fort and relish another stunning view. A leisurely downhill walk will lead you to the small village of Painswick, famous for its stunning Rococo Gardens and rich historical heritage.
Distance Hiked: ~7 miles
Accommodations: Painswick
Meals Included: Breakfast
Day 7: Painswick to Stonehouse
Follow the Cotswold Way signs from your accommodation and out of the village, West through the sloping woodland at Standish. Some of the Beech trees here are over 200 years old. Look out for Buzzards soaring high above your head or delicate wildflowers and butterflies down at ground level. Continue through open grassland to your accommodation at Stonehouse on the outskirts of the artistic town of Stroud.
Distance Hiked: ~9 miles
Accommodations: Stonehouse
Meals Included: Breakfast
Day 8: Stonehouse to Dursley
From Stonehouse, the Cotswold continue through the regal-sounding King’s Stanley – an attractive village surrounded by Cotswold hills. The afternoon’s itinerary is steeped in ancient history, taking you past an Iron Age hillfort and Hetty Pegler’s Tump, a partially reconstructed Neolithic chambered mound overlooking the Severn Valley.
Distance Hiked: ~9.5 miles
Accommodations: Dursley
Meals Included: Breakfast
Day 9: Dursley to Wotton-Under-Edge
With a 7-mile walk on the menu today, your arrival in Bath is getting ever nearer. Leaving Dursley you’ll also come across the striking Tyndale Monument, standing 111 feet tall atop a hill called ‘Nibley Knoll’.
Distance Hiked: ~7 miles
Accommodations: Wotton-Under-Edge
Meals Included: Breakfast
Day 10: Wotton-Under-Edge to Old Sodbury
This morning’s trail starts from Wotton-under-Edge and takes you through more breathtaking countryside and picturesque Cotswold villages. We suggest stopping for lunch at The Fox Inn in Hawkesbury Upton, a local favourite, before exploring the Tudor manor of Horton Court which dates back to around 1185. This manor has been used as a filming location for Poldark and Hilary Mantel’s Wolf Hall. After that, you’ll walk through Dodington Park, an exquisite estate designed by the renowned English gardener Capability Brown, before reaching the village of Old Sodbury at day’s end.
Distance Hiked: ~13 miles
Accommodations: Old Sodbury
Meals Included: Breakfast
Day 11: Old Sodbury to Cold Ashton
Your penultimate day of the walking tour starts with a pleasant hike towards the perimeter wall of the 17th-century Dyrham House. This beautiful William and Mary mansion is situated in an ancient deer park. Take a moment to explore the estate and visit the traditional tearoom café before continuing on the trail. Rest up at Cold Ashton before tomorrow’s final push to the finish in Bath.
Distance Hiked: ~8.5 miles
Accommodations: Cold Ashton
Meals Included: Breakfast
Day 12: Cold Ashton to Bath
The last day on the Cotswold Way leads you via the southernmost point of the Cotswold ridgeline towards Bath, passing several battle sites from the English Civil War along the way. As you reach Bath, make sure to explore some of the iconic local landmarks such as the Royal Crescent, the Roman baths, and the Jane Austen Museum. After a long day of sightseeing, unwind and relax at your hotel in the heart of the city, the perfect place to celebrate the end of your journey.
Distance Hiked: ~10 miles
Accommodations: Bath
Meals Included: Breakfast
Day 13: Bath
Known for its hot springs, Roman baths, splendid Georgian architecture, and as the home of Jane Austen, Bath delights visitors with its quintessentially English charm. This month, Bath hosts the largest Jane Austin festival in the world. Enjoy the town and a a group dinner that night to say farewell!
Accommodations: Bath
Meals Included: Breakfast
Day 14: Departure
Catch a train back to London, or onward into other parts of the UK! Thank you for joining us for the Cotswolds Way!
Meals Included: Breakfast
Inclusions and Exclusions
Inclusions
Exclusions
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Hotel accommodations for every night of the itinerary (Booked on a double occupancy basis)
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Transfer from Moreton-In-Marsh to start of trek in Chipping Campden
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All taxis/transfers needed during the trek
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Trail guide for all trekking days
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Trekking manager to assist with transfers, luggage, and other needs along the trek
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Experienced Trip Host
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Luggage transfer for suitcases or duffels
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Breakfast at all accommodations
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Assistance with finding packed lunch options, grocery stores, and dinner reservations for the group
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Pre‑trip Zoom meeting and preparation support
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International airfare
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ETA visa for entering the UK
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Personal trekking gear
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Tips for your trail guide and trekking manager
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Travel insurance
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Personal expenses
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Drinks, souvenirs, and other extras
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Lunches and dinners
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Transfers to Moreton-In-Marsh
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Transfer from Bath to onward travel
Your Trip Host
Brooke
Brooke is the founder of Authentica Travel and an experienced trek leader who believes that adventure should feel both empowering and deeply human. She’s guided groups across some of the world’s most iconic trails—from Kilimanjaro to the Tour du Mont Blanc—bringing a steady, thoughtful presence to every step of the journey.
Brooke’s approach to hosting goes beyond logistics. She creates an environment where guests feel supported, capable, and connected—to the trail, to each other, and to themselves. Whether it’s helping someone find their rhythm on a long hiking day or facilitating meaningful moments of reflection along the way, she has a way of making big adventures feel both accessible and transformative.
On the Cotswolds Way, Brooke brings a slightly slower, more intentional energy—encouraging guests to soak in the landscape, embrace the quieter pace, and experience the simple joy of walking through one of England’s most beautiful regions.
Trip Cost:
$4,600.00/person
Terms & Conditions:
This trip is designed for an intimate group of up to 12 guests, with a minimum of 10 participants required to run. We will confirm the trip by October 1, 2026; if the minimum is not met, all deposits will be fully refunded. Final payment for all confirmed departures will be due by May 1, 2027.
Payments & Insurance:
To secure your place on this trip, a $1,000 deposit is required.
Trip deposits and final payments are non-refundable once the trip is confirmed and running, as we secure accommodations, guides, and logistics well in advance. For this reason, we strongly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance at the time of booking to protect your investment. Please note that refunds cannot be issued for any reason other than the trip not meeting minimum participant requirements.
Accommodations:
Trip pricing is based on double occupancy in hotels and BNBs.
Dietary Considerations:
Highly restrictive dietary preferences and food accommodations cannot be guaranteed throughout the trek. Vegetarian meals can often be accommodated, but availability and variety may be limited at certain locations.
Any multi-day hike requires adequate nourishment. Proper fueling is an important part of having a safe and enjoyable experience on the trail. Guests with specific dietary needs or preferences are strongly encouraged to bring supplemental snacks or specialty foods that help them feel their best during consecutive days of hiking.
Get in Touch
For questions regarding remaining trip spaces, itinerary, trail fitness, gear or other details, please send us a message!
In order to put your deposit down to secure your place, please contact us via the form provided!
Inclusions and Exclusions
Inc