3 Days In The Cotswolds Itinerary: Explore The Heart Of England

I’ve put together this 3 days Cotswolds itinerary to help you see the best of these storybook villages without the maddening crowds. Come see what makes this region so magical. 

I spent time in the Cotswolds on my very first trip to England and it was love at first sight. I’ve since returned several times on my own, with my husband and with my daughter. The lovely villages and rolling countryside never seems to lose charm, though tourist crowding can sometimes make that charm harder to see.

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Who Should Visit the Cotswolds

The Cotswolds are beautiful and quiet. The area has a well-earned reputation for being the second home escape for London’s wealthy, and it can be pricey. Still, you don’t have to be a millionaire to enjoy your time here.

This region is fantastic for a romantic escape, or finding space for personal reflection. There isn’t much hustle or bustle happening here, so your nightlife is more inclined towards a pub pint or board games at your B&B. 

While it is quiet, kids can also have a good time here. There’s lots of room to roam and most area attractions keep little attention spans in mind. However, teenagers may find it boring as there isn’t much designed for their interests if they aren’t into the quaint village charm.

3-Day Detailed Cotswolds Itinerary

Let’s get into the details on where to go and when the best time is to visit each spot.

Day One: Stow-on-the-Wold, Lower Slaughter and Bourton-on-the-Water

I can’t resist the naming styles of Cotswold villages. While you can find interesting place names all over the UK, there is just something about the Cotswolds that brings out the most  unique names. That will be on full display today as we kick off our Cotswolds visit.

Morning

Start your day in Stow-on-the-Wold. One of the top highlights here is the North Door on St. Edward’s Church. The arched doorway is perfectly framed by two yew trees and looks like it could easily have been transported here from The Lord of the Rings. It should be no surprise that Tolkien’s life in nearby Oxford has led to speculation that this very door inspired the Elvish architecture from his books.

Travel Tip: Make St. Edward’s Church your first stop in Stow-on-the-Wold. Its popularity means it will probably be crowded by the afternoon. 

After visiting the church, head toward Stow-on-the-Wold’s historic market square. The square is home to numerous antique shops and boutiques that are worth a poke around. You might also want to visit Fosse Gallery, which exhibits and sells contemporary British artwork. 

I recommend a stop at Lucy’s Tearoom for a late breakfast or cream tea. Their food is delicious and served in a quaint historic building. 

Travel Tip: Bringing kids to the Cotswolds? I’d opt for just a quick visit to the market square before taking them just out of town to see the local farm animals at Cotswold Farm Park. 

Afternoon

Next we’re going to head to Bourton-on-the-Water. This is my very favorite village in the Cotswolds. When you picture what visiting a Cotswolds village will be like, this is likely what comes to mind. Lots of historic cottages built with the local honey-colored stone centering around a main area cut through by the River Windrush and arched bridges. It’s gorgeous here.

Travel Tip: Bourton-on-the-Water can get very crowded in the summer afternoons. If you’re staying in the village, this is a good time to drop off your bags and leave your car at your lodging. Otherwise, there are many parking lots within a short walk of the village center.

We will spend more time in the village later, but for now let’s head off on a country walk to Lower Slaughter. The walk between these villages is leisurely, about 1.3 miles over flat land, and is a great way to experience the countryside at a relaxed pace. 

While the name sounds foreboding, Lower Slaughter and its neighbor Upper Slaughter actually get their names from an old English word that means ‘wet land’. If you’re up for it you can extend your walk to experience both of these quiet and beautiful villages. 

Travel Tip: If you don’t fancy a walk, Bourton-on-the-Water offers several attractions in or near the village, including the Cotswold Motoring Museum and Birdland Park and Gardens. My favorite attraction is the Model Village. For £4.50 (adult), you can while away an hour marveling at the detailed miniature rendition of Bourton-on-the-Water.

Evening 

Head back to Bourton-on-the-Water and enjoy a classic pub meal at the Mousetrap Inn. I’ve enjoyed a couple of meals here on my visits, and it’s also a great place to stop for an evening pint or glass of wine to cap off your day. 

After dinner is the perfect time for a walk around Bourton-on-the-Water. By now the day trip visitors will have cleared out. Shops will be closed, but you’ll have a much quieter space to explore and take photos.

Day 2: Bibury and Chedworth Roman Villa

Today we are going to check off one of the most popular Cotswold photo spots before it gets too crowded. Then we’ll see remnants of England’s Roman past and explore a hidden gem village.

Morning

We’re going to start the day in one of the most picturesque Cotswold villages. Bibury is delightful and is one of the most photographed villages. It’s a wonderful place to stroll, but its popularity can sometimes make it tricky to visit.  

To ensure you enjoy your visit, I recommend setting off for Bibury early. From Bourton-on-the-Water, driving to Bibury takes about 20 minutes. Day trip visitors from London will start arriving by late morning and the village may be swarming by afternoon. 

The historic 17th century cottages on Arlington Row are the big draw in Bibury. These ancient homes with pitched roofs are the poster image of Cotswold cottages. 

In addition to Arlington Row, take in the River Coln as it flows through Bibury. Keep an eye out for local wildlife like water voles and kingfishers. 

Stop by The Twig before you head out for a coffee and pastry refuel. 

Early Afternoon 

Next we’ll step even further into the past with a visit to Chedworth Roman Villa, about 20 minutes drive from Bibury. This grand ancient site still features mosaics from when it served as a Roman home. There are also bath houses and Roman hypocaust systems (an ancient form of central heating).

This is an active archaeological site and fascinating place to visit. Don’t miss the museum where finds new and old are on display. Of course you are still in the heart of the English countryside, so spare a look for the landscape around the museum as well.  

Late Afternoon 

Before we call it a day, it’s time to step off the beaten path with a visit to Northleach. This small unassuming village is home to a church often called The Cathedral of the Cotswolds. The church was built in part thanks to the booming wool trade that brought wealth to the Cotswolds. It’s a lovely space and tends to be less crowded than other more popular areas.

If your inspiration tends to fall more towards the quirky than the spiritual, I instead recommend a stop at The Old Prison. This unique free museum and cafe tells the story of the prison that was built here in the late 1700s. Supernatural evening tours are sometimes offered for the brave. 

Evening 

If you’re getting hungry, I recommend stopping for dinner at The Wheatsheaf Inn in Northleach. This is a posh restaurant in an incredibly pretty inn. The menu is good all around, though it also does a delicious Sunday roast.

Day 3: Chipping Campden, Broadway and Snowshill Manor

For the final day, I want to share a little more Cotswold village scenery, along with some sweeping vistas and a bonus manor house. Here’s where we’re going.

Morning 

Start the day with a wander in Chipping Campden. This village is only about 25 minutes north of Bourton-on-the-Water, and offers even more of the Cotswold village aesthetic. Don’t miss St. James’ Church – another of the grand churches built by medieval wool merchants. 

Beyond the church, much of the Chipping Campden high street area buildings date from the same time period. Keep an eye out for the stone Market Hall. This arched building is now maintained by the National Trust, but has served as a commerce location for 400 years. 

While you may not be on a full walking holiday this trip, look out for the starting mark for the Cotswold Way. This walking path winds its way through the Cotswolds for 102 miles to Bath. 

Late Morning / Early Afternoon

A short drive west from Chipping Campden will find you in Broadway. Spend a little time on the high street here, maybe stopping for an early lunch at the Broadway Deli. 

The real highlight from Broadway, though, is actually up a hill outside the village. Broadway Tower is a folly, meaning it was built as a romanticized version of a gothic or medieval ruin. It was designed by a famous UK landscape designer named Capability Brown. 

Today the tower is an icon offering sweeping views of the surrounding countryside. Even if you don’t climb the tower, the views are pretty stunning from outside and you’ll surely want photos of the tower itself. Expect about 45 minutes walking each way to reach Broadway Tower from Broadway village. 

Afternoon 

If you have room in your day left for one more highlight, I recommend a short seven-minute drive to see Snowshill Manor. This manor house and gardens is another National Trust property. While it looks like a conventional Cotswold house from the outside, it is filled with unconventional treasures. The home holds the curious collections of Charles Paget Wade, an English architect and artist. 

The terraced gardens outside Snowshill Manor should not be skipped. They are lovely and provide views of the rolling hills beyond the village.

Where To Stay in the Cotswolds

For the best base on this trip, you’ll want to stay in or very near to Bourton-on-the-Water. This is my favorite of the Cotswold villages and an ideal base to explore in the mornings or evenings when the crowds disperse.

When you’re ready to go adventuring, Bourton-on-the-Water is only a short drive from all of the suggested destinations on this itinerary.

Travel Tip: Hotels in the Cotswolds are small and the best ones book up early. Lock in your hotel as soon as you have firm travel dates.

Best Stays in Bourton-on-the Water

📍Best Budget Stay: The White Hart Royal in Moreton-in-Marsh

This 17th century former coaching inn is about 15 minutes driving from Bourton-on-the-Water, but still central enough for an excellent Cotswolds trip.

“Fantastic hotel! Wonderful room and bathroom! Perfect location to explore the Cotswolds ! The food was excellent! Helpful staff!”

Jamie from United States of America (see more reviews)

📍Best Mid-Range Stay: The Dial House in Bourton-on-the-Water

The Dial House is a honey-stone hotel in the heart of Bourton-on-the-Water. The rooms here are swimming with charm and the on-site restaurant serves optional breakfast each morning.

“The property was absolutely beautiful. The room was spacious and clean. Breakfast was delicious. Great location and convenient parking. Staff helped with our bags and were very friendly.”

Katie from United States of America (see more reviews)

📍Best Luxury Stay: The Slaughters Country Inn near Lower Slaughter

This luxury inn looks like a country manor and offers 31 individually designed rooms set in acres of leafy grounds near Lower Slaughter. The on-site bar and restaurant is open for all meals, including their full English breakfast.

“Quintessentially English countryside setting with beautiful relaxing spaces for guests”

Lynn from United States of America (see more reviews)

📍Best Family Stay: Two-Bedroom Cottage in Bourton-on-the-Water

Stay in your own Cotswold cottage. This two-bedroom cottage was built in the 1600s but has been thoughtfully updated for a comfortable stay. It is located only steps from the River Windrush that winds through Bourton-on-the-Water.

“This charming cottage is perfectly situated in the heart of town, offering a peaceful retreat on a quiet street. My family and I had a wonderful stay, enjoying the comfortable and inviting atmosphere.”

Olutosin from United States of America (see more reviews)

Extend Your Cotswolds Trip

If you have more time to explore, these are some great places to check out next:

• Drive north to spend a day exploring Shakespeare’s home in Stratford Upon Avon.
• Head south for more Roman history and Bridgerton filming locations in Bath.
• If you are returning your rental car in Oxford, consider a detour to visit Blenheim Palace.

Tips for Driving in the Cotswolds

Wherever you go in the Cotswolds, you’ll likely be driving. Here are some tips to take the stress out of driving through this area.

• Expect narrow lanes. Cotswold roads can be narrow and at times may only leave space for one car to squeeze through. Take advantage of passing points to pull over on the left when another vehicle is approaching.
• Park outside the villages. Most villages have car parks outside the town center that are easier to navigate than attempting to drive into town. It’s easier to park and walk most of the time.
• Back up your map. Whether you pick up a paper map or download an offline map to your phone, make sure you won’t be stuck if service gets spotty.

FAQs About Visiting the Cotswolds

The Cotswolds is a huge area, with a lot of places to see. This is what you need to know before you set out.

How many days do you need for Cotswolds?

I recommend spending at least 2 days in the Cotswolds if you are traveling on your own. Guided trips, like this full-day tour from London, can help you see the highlights if you don’t have more time to spend here.

Which is the best Cotswold village to visit? 

I prefer Bourton-on-the-Water for its storybook village charm and central location, making it easy to explore the area from a central base. You’re likely to stop in several villages on any Cotswold trip, but I’d make sure Bourton-on-the-Water is in your plans.

Do I need a car in the Cotswolds? 

Yes. The Cotswolds are not well supported by public transportation. You can get to some of the larger towns by train, but will miss out on the small village charm that defines the region if you don’t rent a car.

What is the best month to go to the Cotswolds?

I’ve had the best luck visiting the Cotswolds in early July. This time of year you’ll have a good chance at summer weather and long sunny days. UK schools often don’t break for summer until mid- to late-July, so you’ll also have the best odds to enjoy peak weather without peak crowds.

Explore England’s Storybook Region

I hope this itinerary helps you get ready to explore one of the UK’s most beautiful areas. Whether you’re traveling solo, with your partner or with family, the Cotswolds can provide a peaceful retreat filled with charm and space to make memories.