Hiking the Venice of the Cotswolds

Think honey-coloured cottages, cosy pubs, tiny tearooms and narrow streets. The unspoilt market towns and villages of the Cotswolds have a quintessential English charm found nowhere else in the world. It really is a unique experience!
On this hike, we'll pass through many picturesque Cotswold villages and towns, such as Bourton-on-the-Water, Lower Slaughter, Upper Slaughter and Naunton. Our route will take us through some of the Cotswolds’ best scenery along rolling hills (the “wolds”), woodlands and dramatic escarpments with stunning panoramic views. The whole walk is within the protected Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), the largest of the 38 AONBs in England and Wales.
This hike is featured in the 100 Outstanding British Walks collection, come and discover why!
HIKE HIGHLIGHTS

• Visit the popular village of Bourton-on-the-Water, often described as the “Venice of the Cotswolds” due to its six elegant bridges that span the River Windrush, which runs through the centre of the village.
• Discover the picture-postcard village of Lower Slaughter. This quaint village sits beside the sleepy River Eye and is known for its attractive limestone cottages in the traditional Cotswold style.
• Pass the outstandingly beautiful Naunton village with its medieval church. This unspoilt village remains relatively untouched by tourism.
• Hike through lovely woodland landscapes and enjoy expansive views across the rolling countryside and the sheltered valleys of the rivers Eye and Windrush.

DISTANCE & DIFFICULTY
Distance: 10 miles (16km).
Ascent: 240m.
Difficulty: Moderate.
ITINERARY
07:45 Meet outside Hotel Novotel London West, 1 Shortlands, W6 8DR (a five-minute walk from Hammersmith Station)
08:00 Sharp departure
10:00-16:00 The Venice of the Cotswolds circuit walk
16:00-17:00 Picnic lunch/dinner at Bourton-on-the-Water
17:00 Departure
19:30 London, Hammersmith
TRANSPORT
As on most of our trips, we'll travel in a comfortable 16-seater minibus.
SAFETY
This hike is led by an experienced, Outdoor First Aid qualified hike leader.
THE PRICE OF £78 INCLUDES

• Transport throughout the trip
• Experienced, professional PSV minibus driver
• Guiding on all hiking routes by an experienced and qualified Mountain Leader
• Professional event organisation
• Group first aid kit with qualified first aiders
• Admin fee
• 20% VAT

THE PRICE DOES NOT INCLUDE

• Personal insurance (for cancellation, accident, health, emergency evacuation and loss, theft of or damage to baggage and personal effects, and personal trekking insurance)
• Food

HOW TO CONTACT US
For all enquiries, please email us at [email protected] We'll usually get back to you within 4 hours.
WHAT TO BRING

• Suitable hiking shoes with ankle support
• Sunscreen (if sunny)
• Waterproof and windproof jacket and trousers (if there is a chance of rain)
• Packed lunch
• Water (min 1L)
• Walking poles (optional)
• Gaiters (optional)

REVIEWS ⭐
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REFUND POLICY
You can check our refund policy here.

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