Cotswold Way
The Cotswold Way is a 164 km National Trail from Chipping Campden in the north Cotswolds to Bath — following the limestone escarpment above the Severn valley through classic English countryside, market towns and AONB landscapes.
About Cotswold Way
The Cotswold Way follows the western escarpment of the Cotswolds from the market town of Chipping Campden south to the Georgian city of Bath — through some of the most recognisable English countryside: honey-stone villages, rolling limestone hills, ancient hill forts and views across the Severn vale. It is a National Trail with excellent waymarking throughout.
For trail runners it is a two to three day challenge on good terrain — mostly firm limestone paths and farm tracks. Broadway Tower, Hailes Abbey, Painswick and the final descent into Bath are the standout moments. The escarpment views west across the Severn give the route its character throughout.
The route
Chipping Campden to Winchcombe (~35 km): The northern Cotswolds — Broadway, Buckland and Cleeve Common (the highest point at 330 m).
Winchcombe to Painswick (~45 km): Through Cheltenham fringe, Cooper's Hill (cheese-rolling site), and the dramatic Painswick valley.
Painswick to Bath (~84 km): The southern section — Dursley, Wotton-under-Edge, Tormarton and the final descent into Bath.
Getting there & logistics
Start: Chipping Campden. Bus from Moreton-in-Marsh (train to Oxford and London).
Finish: Bath Spa. Frequent trains to London, Bristol and Bristol.
Best time: Year-round. The limestone drains well. Popular in summer — arrive at beauty spots early.
Safety
The Cotswold Way is one of the safest National Trails — no remote terrain, always near roads and villages. Good mobile signal throughout. In an emergency: call 999 or 112.
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