The Cotswolds are the UK’s largest designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty’. Do you need another reason to visit the unscathed scenery of South-West England? Its rolling hillsides, quaint towns and villages, and pure, fresh air are just what the doctor ordered. Go on, treat yourself to a road trip and some good old English hospitality. For inspiration, here are descriptions of just some of the Cotswolds’ treasures.
Walks
Naturally, the picturesque scenery and hilly terrain are made for trails and hiking. The Cotswold Way circular walk will take you through some of the most varied landscapes encompassing woodlands, open hilltops and limestone grassland, with plenty of opportunities for picnicking and photo taking along the way. For those hoping to go on shorter wanders, routes are marked, and detailed on the National Trail website. Look out for the new Cotswolds South Korea Friendship trail unveiled in 2010.
Steam Railways
The Avon Valley and Gloucestershire and Warwickshire (GWR) Steam Railways are fine sights to see and experience. Based at the beautifully restored Bitton Station, the Avon Valley line snakes its way along an old branch of the Midland Railway with stunning views across the river Avon not visible to those travelling by car. You can arrange to dine on one of the special Luncheon Dining trains or, if you’re lucky, visit on time for the annual murder mystery event.
GWR is based in Toddington in the North Cotswolds. The steam train’s round trip is 20 miles and takes in the sights of the Hailes Abbey ruins, Evesham Hale and the Malvern Hills. The train also chugs through the UK’s second longest tunnel on a preserved railway with a length of 693 syards. A variety of events take place at Toddington Station throughout the year such as transport nostalgia days.
Northleach
Northleach is a great example of a classic Cotswold town, and is home to the beautiful Church of St Peter and Paul, deemed the Cathedral of the Cotswolds’. The pleasant town centre hasn’t changed much since 1500. Take the time to wander along its winding alleys and admire the stunning old architecture, known for its sturdy stone walls and timber framing. A popular attraction is the Mechanical Music Museum that exhibits an array of self-playing instruments. Legend has it underground tunnels snake under the streets of Northleach. Your best bet is to try asking a local resident at one of the pleasant pubs.
Chipping Campden
Chipping Campden is proud to be known as the town with the most beautiful High Street in England. It’s a sleepy old wool merchants’ town with stunning examples of century-old architecture dotted throughout. Visit the Market Hall built in the 17th century and the old Woolstaplers Hall dating back to 1340 where wool merchants from as far away as Florence would flock to buy Cotswold fleeces.
When in the area, indulge in some of the best foods in Britain. The dedicated Cotswold Food app for iPhones could come in handy. For a good night’s sleep after all that fresh air and hearty meals, check into a classic Cotswolds hotel and let yourself be pampered.
