GGolden limestone and thatched cottages form the backdrop to this gentle journey through one of England’s prettiest regions. Walking historic footpaths, Roman roads and winding lanes through sleepy villages, we discover the world-class gardens of Hidcote Manor, designed by Lawrence Johnson, and walk through the woods of Batsford House associated with the notorious Mitford sisters.
We eat hearty pub lunches with local ale and learn about the art of free-flying falconry and enjoy a final evening in the regency spa town, Cheltenham.
Meet in Moreton-in-Marsh, and transfer to Chipping Campden, a charming Cotswolds town, for our Welcome Dinner.
Chipping Campden, Cotswold House
Meander through the quintessentially Cotswold villages of Broad Campden and Blockley to arrive at Lord Dulverton’s Batsford House, once home to the infamous Mitford sisters. Visit the Birds of Prey Centre where we watch owls, falcons and eagles being flown. After lunch, we continue walking through the lush countryside to our hotel.
Chipping Campden, Cotswold House
Today’s destination is the famous Hidcote Manor Gardens, created by the American Lawrence Johnson almost 100 years ago. Here at the gardens, generally recognized as one of the world’s greatest, we can stroll through the 19 ‘outdoor rooms’. A local TV and radio garden expert will meet us to answer any gardening questions. Afterwards, we’ll continue with an afternoon walk to our next hotel.
Upper Slaughter, Lords of the Manor
Have your camera ready for today’s walk to the beautiful villages of Upper and Lower Slaughter. Despite their names, they are picture-postcard perfect, and well worth exploring. After a pub lunch, we’ll continue across the gentle hills (wolds), punctuated with dry-stone walls enclosing the pastures.
Upper Slaughter, Lords of the Manor
Leave Stow for Fish Hill, then walk to Broadway Tower with far reaching views over the Vale of Evesham and Broadway, a lively market town. After walking through Broadway, our path winds through a series of beautiful Cotswold stone villages, ending in Stanway, with its lovely manor house. We return to Broadway for our stay in the historic Lygon Arms.
Broadway, The Lygon Arms
Begin the day walking up Cleeve Hill to visit the ancient Celtic burial mound Belas Knap. We’ll continue by foot to the picturesque town of Winchcombe for lunch and a visit to Sudeley Castle, where Katherine Parr, the last of Henry VIII’s wives is buried. It’s a lovely walk from the castle to the historic ruins of Hailes Abbey, where we learn about Henry VIII’s dissolution of the monasteries. Return to The Lygon Arms in Broadway for our Farewell Dinner.
Broadway, The Lygon Arms
After breakfast, Wayfaring Walks provide transportation to Cheltenham for onward connections. Or stay on to explore this pretty Regency town.
My favorite aspects were the beautiful scenery, the variety, and being off the beaten path where there were very few other walkers.
Our Walk leader Colin lived in the Cotswolds so he was more than familiar with the country. There was a nice mix of personal and professional stories. It was also fun to walk with their very well behaved dogs.
Manager Kate is lovely and so very helpful. We didn’t have to worry about a thing. Our luggage was in our rooms, she was always on time to pick us up and we didn’t waste time waiting for lunch, etc. She is an excellent driver on some very narrow roads.
The talks were also a highlight. Rosemund was incredible – really interesting person. It was nice to see a true native farmer in her element. She was funny, endearing and insightful. Michael the violinist also was just delightful. Having these surprises really made the trip that much more special.
The amount of walking was perfect. The pace and rest stops were perfectly timed.
I loved the varied scenery, the many interesting things that we did along the way and the passion about the Cotswolds that emanated from Colin…
What more could we want…humor, warmth, knowledge and comraderie…