England: The Cotswold Way

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Overview

England: The Cotswold Way
England, United Kingdom
Aug 11 - 17, 2026
Chicas Abroad image
Chicas Abroad
$3,400
Deposit: $1,000

About this trip

Step into a storybook setting on this week-long journey through the English countryside, where every footpath leads to fairytale villages, fragrant rose gardens, and rolling green hills. On this inn-to-inn walking adventure, you’ll explore the heart of the Cotswolds at a refreshing pace, hiking between picturesque towns like Bourton-on-the-Water, Winchcombe, Stanton, and Chipping Campden. Along the way, we’ll stop for cream teas, cozy up in centuries-old inns, toast with a pint of real ale, and savor hearty local fare. From the moment you arrive in Moreton-in-Marsh to your final stroll through honey-hued hamlets, this trip blends charming English hospitality with active, soul-nourishing adventure.


Perfectly crafted for women who crave connection, exploration, and a touch of whimsy, this experience is as much about camaraderie as it is about culture. You’ll wander past Roman ruins, visit historic estates like Sudeley Castle and Broadway Tower, and soak in panoramic views from the iconic Cotswold escarpment. Evenings invite you to unwind by the fire or sip wine in flower-filled gardens, sharing stories with new friends. With baggage transfers handled and hand-picked accommodations awaiting you each night, all you need to do is lace up your boots and fall in love with this delightfully British escape.

Activity Level - Moderate

This trip offers a moderately active walking experience, perfect for women with a love of the outdoors and a reasonable level of fitness. You'll cover approximately 50 miles over 6 days, with daily hikes ranging from 7 to 12.5 miles through gently rolling countryside, charming villages, and occasional steep ascents along the Cotswold escarpment. Trails are well-maintained and varied—meandering through open fields, woodland paths, and quiet lanes—making the journey as scenic as it is rewarding. With your luggage transported daily and shorter walking days toward the end, this itinerary strikes a comfortable balance between challenge and leisure.

Weather

In early August, the Cotswolds typically enjoys mild to warm summer weather, making it an ideal time for walking adventures. Daytime temperatures usually range between 65°F and 75°F (18°C to 24°C), with occasional warmer spells. Expect long daylight hours, blooming gardens, and lush green countryside. While the weather is generally pleasant, light rain or drizzle is always a possibility in the English countryside, so it’s best to pack a lightweight waterproof jacket just in case. Overall, August offers some of the sunniest and most vibrant days of the year in the Cotswolds.

Money & Tipping

All the excursions listed in the itinerary are included. Bring cash/credit cards for purchasing souvenirs, additional snacks/meals, alcoholic drinks, extra activities, and other items. You can either order Pounds from your bank at home or use an ATM on arrival in London to get some cash. Exchanging USD to Pounds at the airport or at a bank in Europe is not always easy and doesn't give the best exchange rates.


All gratuities are included in your adventure, with the exception of tips for your Chicas Abroad Tour Leader. While tipping your Tour Leader is entirely optional, it’s a meaningful way to show appreciation for the care, energy, and behind-the-scenes magic they bring to your trip.


If you’ve had an exceptional experience, a typical gratuity for a trip of this length ranges from $250–$350. In cases where more than one Tour Leader is present, you’re welcome to give your tip to one of them—they’ll ensure it’s shared among the team.

Packing List

A custom packing list will be emailed out a few months prior to departure.

What's included

Accommodation

Inns & B&Bs along the trail. All rooms are double occupancy with 2 twin beds. If you'd like a single room, there is an option to purchase the single supplement at check out.

Ground Transport

Train & bus transport provided throughout the trip. Airport transfers included between London and Moreton-in-Marsh if you arrive in London on Aug 11 by 2:00pm and depart London on Aug 17 after 3pm.

Luggage Transfer

All luggage will be transferred between each B&B or inn each day so you will just have to carry a day pack while walking on the trail.

Tips for Local Guides

Generous tips are provided for all LOCAL guides and drivers. Tips for the Chicas Abroad tour leader are optional and at your discretion.

Food

All meals included as indicated in the itinerary. We can accommodate dietary restrictions.

Excursions

All excursions mentioned in itinerary

Chicas Abroad Swag

We provide amazing swag items to our guests to enjoy during and after your adventure!

What's not included

International Flights

Guests must book their own international flights to arrive in London (LHR) by August 11 by 2:00pm and depart London (LHR) on August 17 after 3:00pm (or continue on for more adventures on your own)

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is highly recommend to cover any unforeseen events. Chicas Abroad will provide you with a link to our recommended carrier upon booking, but you may choose any carrier.

Alcoholic Drinks

Alcoholic drinks are at your own expense, with the exception of the included beer at the brewery tour.

Tour Leader Tips

If you’ve had an exceptional experience, a typical gratuity for a trip of this length ranges from $250–$350.

Personal Purchase

Souvenirs and other personal purchases are not included.

Day 1

Day 1  image

Arrive in Moreton-in-Marsh & Welcome Dinner

Welcome to the gateway of the Cotswolds! Your adventure begins in the charming market town of Moreton-in-Marsh, easily accessible by train from London. This historic hub has welcomed travelers for centuries, and its wide High Street is lined with cozy inns, boutiques, and traditional tea rooms. After settling into your delightful accommodation, take a gentle stroll around town, maybe grab a cup of tea and a scone, and soak in the warm, small-town atmosphere.


This is your chance to decompress, get acquainted with your travel group, and prepare for the week ahead. Moreton’s historic coaching inns and stone buildings set the tone for what’s to come—quaint, picturesque, and steeped in tradition. Enjoy a restful night in one of our handpicked inns or B&Bs, and dream of the countryside trails that await you tomorrow.


Accommodation: Inn or B&B in Moreton-in-Marsh
Meals Included: Dinner

Day 2

Day 2 image

Moreton-in-Marsh to Bourton-on-the-Water

Lace up your boots—it’s time to hit the trail! Today’s walk leads you through the heart of the Cotswolds, where rolling hills and blooming hedgerows guide you from one picture-perfect village to the next. Along the way, you’ll pass through Stow-on-the-Wold, a historic market town full of charm, independent shops, and cozy cafes—perfect for a mid-day stop.


The highlight of the day is your arrival in Bourton-on-the-Water, affectionately known as the "Venice of the Cotswolds" thanks to its quaint stone bridges crossing the River Windrush. With flower-draped cottages, riverside pubs, and charming tea rooms, it’s a magical place to unwind. This is countryside walking at its finest—peaceful, pastoral, and dotted with moments of pure delight.


Trail Specs: 11 miles / 17.5 km | Ascent: 575 ft / Descent: 575 ft
Terrain: Gently rolling countryside, village footpaths


Accommodation: Inn or B&B in Bourton-on-the-Water
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 3

Day 3 image

Bourton-on-the-Water to Winchcombe

Today’s journey immerses you even deeper into the serenity of the Cotswolds. You'll follow the River Windrush out of Bourton and venture into more secluded landscapes. The walk takes you through Naunton, a charming hamlet nestled in a quiet valley, before continuing across open meadows, wooded trails, and through traditional dry-stone-walled farmland.


As you approach Winchcombe, the vista opens to reveal Sudeley Castle in the valley below—one of the region's most storied landmarks. This is a day of contrasts: tranquil rural trails mixed with wide-open views from the escarpment. By the time you reach your inn for the night, you'll feel a deep connection to the land and a sense of accomplishment for conquering one of the longer legs of the journey.


Trail Specs: 12.5 miles / 20 km | Ascent: 1,065 ft / Descent: 1,065 ft
Terrain: Open countryside, woodland paths, scenic escarpment


Accommodation: Inn or B&B in Winchcombe
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 4

Day 4  image

Winchcombe to Stanton

Today’s walk may be shorter, but it’s rich with cultural and historical treasures. You’ll follow the Cotswold Way north toward Stanton, passing the evocative ruins of Hailes Abbey and the impressive Stanway House with its grand gatehouse and towering fountain. These sites offer glimpses into England’s storied past and are perfect for thoughtful pauses or a picnic lunch.


As you descend into Stanton, you’ll find yourself in one of the most unspoiled villages in the Cotswolds. Thatched cottages, climbing roses, and ancient stone buildings make it feel like time has stood still. It’s the kind of place where you’ll want to linger on a bench with a cup of tea and simply breathe in the beauty.


Trail Specs: 8 miles / 12.5 km | Ascent: 755 ft / Descent: 670 ft
Terrain: Historical sites, gentle ascents, village trails

Accommodation: Inn or B&B in Stanton
Meals Included: Breakfast 

Day 5

Day 5 image

Stanton to Chipping Campden

Get ready for some serious charm today! Your journey takes you through the iconic village of Broadway, famed for its beautiful High Street lined with honey-colored buildings and cozy tearooms. After a scenic break here, the path climbs to Broadway Tower—an 18th-century folly perched at one of the highest points in the Cotswolds. The panoramic views are breathtaking, offering the perfect photo opportunity with your fellow travelers.


From there, descend gently into the artsy village of Chipping Campden, once a center of the wool trade and now known for its historic architecture and creative energy. With galleries, boutiques, and more delightful tea shops, it’s a lovely place to spend the evening reflecting on the day’s adventures.


Trail Specs: 10.5 miles / 17 km | Ascent: 1,250 ft / Descent: 1,380 ft
Terrain: Steady climbs, open ridge trails, scenic descents


Accommodation: Inn or B&B in Chipping Campden
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 6

Day 6 image

Chipping Campden to Moreton-in-Marsh

On your final full day, the trail leads you through more charming villages like Broad Campden and Blockley, each with their own character and story to tell. The route is peaceful and reflective, offering a wonderful opportunity to soak up the last views of the English countryside and savor the simple joy of walking with good company.


As you arrive back in Moreton-in-Marsh, where your journey began, there’s a sense of completion and camaraderie that only a shared adventure can bring. Celebrate with a toast at a local pub, or treat yourself to a well-earned dessert before settling in for your final night in the Cotswolds.


Trail Specs: 7 miles / 11.5 km | Ascent: 885 ft / Descent: 885 ft
Terrain: Rolling hills, pastoral trails, quiet lanes

Accommodation: Inn or B&B in Moreton-in-Marsh
Meals Included: Breakfast & Farewell Dinner

Day 7

Day 7  image

Transfer to London & Departures

After a hearty breakfast and perhaps one last stroll around town, it’s time to say goodbye to the Cotswolds. Whether you're catching a train back to London or continuing your travels, you’ll carry home beautiful memories, new friendships, and the unmatched joy of having walked through one of England’s most enchanting landscapes.

Meals Included: Breakfast

About your organizer

CA
Chicas Abroad
We take women on small group adventures around the globe! We will take you out in nature to hike, kayak, bike, and do all the things with a fun group of adventure-seeking women! We also offer custom-curated adventures for you and your friends/family. Reach out to info@chicasabroad.com for more information. You can see all of our upcoming adventures and learn more about our company at www.chicasabroad.com.

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