The Cotswolds is more than just a destination—it's an experience. This stunning region in the heart of England is famed for its rolling hills, honey-colored stone villages, historic landmarks, and serene countryside. It’s a destination made for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Whether you're a nature lover, a history buff, or simply seeking an unforgettable journey at your own pace, the Cotswolds has something for everyone.

But how do you uncover the very best of what this magical region has to offer? From must-see landmarks to unforgettable hiking and biking routes, we’ll guide you through what to do in the Cotswolds and how to make the most of your time in this enchanting part of England.

What to Do in the Cotswolds: Must-Do Activities

The Cotswolds offers an array of activities for every type of traveler.

Here’s what you shouldn’t miss:

Visit Broadway Tower: Climb to the top of this iconic folly for sweeping views of the surrounding countryside. On a clear day, you can see as far as Wales!

Explore Bath, a UNESCO World Heritage Site: Famous for its Roman Baths and Georgian architecture, the small city of Bath is a treasure trove of history and culture.

Stroll Through Sudeley Castle: Discover one of England’s most beautiful castles, set among award-winning gardens in the charming village of Winchcombe.

Discover Bourton-on-the-Water Model Village: Experience the charm of the Cotswolds in miniature at this whimsical attraction in the picturesque village of Bourton-on-the-Water. Known as “Venice of the Cotswolds” due to River Windrush that weaves through it and its five stone bridges.

Relax at Dormy House: This superior hotel in Broadway, Cotswolds, England, is the perfect spot for a cozy retreat after a day of exploration.

Pro Tip: Wondering “what to do in the Cotswolds when it rains”? Visit the Batsford Arboretum near Moreton-in-Marsh, where you can enjoy the beautiful gardens and trees even on a drizzly day.

What to See in the Cotswolds: Must-See Landmarks

The Cotswolds is filled with historic sites, idyllic villages, and natural beauty.

Here are the highlights:

Blenheim Palace: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, and often called “the Versailles of England”, this opulent estate near Woodstock, built by the Dukes of Marlborough in the early 18th century, was the birthplace of Winston Churchill and is surrounded by stunning gardens.

Broadway, Cotswolds: Known as “the jewel of the Cotswolds,” Broadway boasts charming shops, galleries, and cafes, making it a must-visit.

Stanton, Cotswolds: Step back in time in this quintessentially English village, complete with thatched cottages and a historic church.

The Cotswold Way: This National Trail stretches for 102 miles, offering some of the best walking and cycling routes in the region.

If you’re wondering “what is the Cotswolds famous for?”, the answer lies in its timeless beauty—quaint villages, historic landmarks, and lush countryside that embody the heart of England.

Walking the Cotswold Way

For those who love walking holidays, walking the Cotswold Way is an unmissable experience. The trail runs from Chipping Campden to Bath, passing through stunning landscapes and historic sites along the way.

Top Walks Along the Cotswold Way

Broadway to Stanton: This 4-mile stretch offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside and the opportunity to explore Stanton’s idyllic charm.

Winchcombe to Cleeve Hill: Hike to the highest point in the Cotswolds, where you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views that stretch for miles.

Bath’s Skyline Walk: A 6-mile loop that showcases Bath’s stunning architecture, including views of its world-famous Abbey.

Cycling the Cotswold Way

Prefer two wheels to two feet? Cycling the Cotswold Way provides a new perspective on this beautiful region. The route combines quiet country lanes, picturesque villages, and challenging hills for cycling enthusiasts.

Top Cycling Route in the Cotswolds

Cycling in the Heart of the Cotswolds: 
Explore the Cotswolds at your own pace with this self-guided tour from Macs Adventure. Featuring e-bike options to make hills easier, this tour lets you enjoy stunning landscapes and charming villages while covering more ground. On this route you’ll bike some of the most picturesque cycle loops and trails. 

Here are some of the highlights:

Chipping Norton Cycle Loop
On day two of the Cycling in the Heart of the Cotswolds trip, the cycling route takes you along peaceful rural roads, leading you to the historic town of Chipping Norton. Known as "market town north," Chipping Norton began as a small settlement at the base of a hill topped by a motte and bailey castle. Just north of the town, your journey continues past the fascinating Rollright Stones—a collection of Neolithic and Bronze Age monuments. These ancient stones, known as the King’s Men, the King Stone, and the Whispering Knights, were built during the late prehistoric age and add a touch of mystery to your adventure.

Brailes Cycle Loop
On day three, the Brailes Cycle Loop takes you west of Moreton-in-Marsh, winding through the picturesque villages of Upper and Lower Brailes in Warwickshire, nestled in the northern part of the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Surrounded by rolling hills, this route offers some challenging terrain but rewards you with stunning scenery. The Brailes area, steeped in history, was once an important Saxon manor and is noted in the Domesday Book. Along the way, you'll pass charming stone farms, quaint cottages, and flower-filled gardens, making this a delightful ride through classic English countryside.

Broadway Cycle Loop
The Broadway Cycle Loop is an absolute treat, taking you on a picturesque circuit to the south and west of the charming village of Broadway. Pedal along peaceful country lanes to Elmley Castle, where the remnants of the historic castle lend an air of intrigue to the idyllic surroundings. Continue your ride through the delightful villages of Ashton under Hill, Alderton, and Gretton, each featuring their own unique character and storybook charm. Just south of Broadway lies Stanway, a must-visit destination on your route. Take a moment to explore Stanway Manor House, a stunning Jacobean manor steeped in history, and its magnificent 18th-century water gardens, known as the finest in England.

Discover our self-guided Cycling in the Heart of the Cotswolds trip >

E-biking in the Cotswolds: An e-bike is a fantastic way to enjoy self-guided tours, making hills more manageable and ensuring you can see more in less time. Macs Adventure offers e-bike options on many of our Cotswolds walking and cycling tours.

Self-Guided Adventures in the Cotswolds

The beauty of the Cotswolds is best discovered at your own pace, and our self-guided adventures make that easy. With Macs Adventure, you’ll have all the tools you need, from pre-planned routes to luggage transfers, so you can focus on soaking up the scenery.

Planning Your Trip with the Macs Adventure App:

Before heading out, download our app to access daily maps, turn-by-turn instructions, and all your trip details offline. You’ll have everything you need to make your Cotswolds walking tour seamless and stress-free.

Discover the Cotswolds with Macs Adventure

Walking and cycling in the Cotswolds is more than just a journey—it’s a chance to immerse yourself in history, nature, and timeless charm. Whether you’re hiking the Cotswold Way, climbing to Broadway Tower, or cycling through tranquil villages like Stanton, the Cotswolds offers a wealth of unforgettable experiences.

At Macs Adventure, we specialize in crafting sustainable, self-guided adventures with the biggest choice of hiking and biking routes across England's diverse regions, from iconic trails to lesser known but equally epic routes.

Discover England's beautiful countryside and dramatic coastal landscapes at your own pace, away from crowds, while engaging with friendly locals. Follow in the footsteps of literary legends, explore royal paths, or visit iconic film and TV locations. Each journey is full of history and stories to uncover. With many of our team members based in England, we offer local insights and recommend must-see attractions and top food spots.

Join the thousands of travelers who’ve discovered the magic of the Cotswolds on their terms. Explore our self-guided Cotswolds walking tours and plan your perfect adventure today.