FREE Day Trip to the Hidden Gems of the Cotswolds !!

Get ready for a day trip to the postcard-perfect Cotswolds! I usually run a couple of these each year, and they’re always a hit — think peaceful villages, rolling hills, riverside paths, and that classic countryside charm that never gets old.

We’ll be heading out early and returning later in the evening, so it’s a full day of exploring some of the most beautiful spots in the region — all in one go.

🚆 Travel: It takes about 2 hours by train to reach the Cotswolds. You're welcome to make your own way by car if that’s more convenient — just let me know your plans so we can coordinate meet-up points.

Expect a day packed with scenic walks, historic villages, fresh air, and probably a pint (or two) somewhere lovely. It’s the perfect way to escape the city and soak up some countryside magic.

The approx., 12 to 15 miles walk can be moderately challenging so you need to be fit enough to participate.

Carpool:
Please start early, as it can take 2 to 3 hours of driving and give extra time for traffic. Those planning to drive (and are definitely coming) can offer rides and share fuel costs but please be mindful and do not change your attendance at the last minute. I would be driving down as well and happy to pick up some and drop them back at Slough Station and Three Bridges Station whichever is closer for you. Please send me a direct message on my WhatsApp number below.

Train:

The following route is just a suggestion. Depending on where you are travelling from, please plan your journey but please ensure you reach the meeting point at 11:30 am sharp.

There is a train from London Paddington to Moreton-in-Marsh at 07:50 am and you would reach Moreton in Marsh at 09:18am. You need to then take the bus 801 (towards Cheltenham) at 09:25 am and you need to get down at Moore Hospital and walk to the below meeting point alternatively 802 bus from Kingham station and get down at war memorial and walk to the meeting point. https://bustimes.org/stops/1600GL571 . You may be waiting for some time for those arriving by car at the meeting point. However, please check your journey including bus timings beforehand. You can, of course, take a taxi and reach the meeting point but it may cost further.

Meeting Point:
We will be meeting at 11:30 am at Bourton Vale Car Park, Station Road, Bourton on the Water (GL54 2LU). This meeting point is close to the route.

Route:
I’ve got a couple of route options in mind, combining some of the most picturesque surroundings the Cotswolds has to offer. Please note that the exact route may change on the day depending on weather, time, and group pace — but rest assured, every option includes beautiful landscapes and charming villages.

On this Cotswolds walk, we’ll explore four uniquely beautiful villages, each offering its own distinct charm and character. Our journey begins in the lively Bourton-on-the-Water, often called the “Venice of the Cotswolds,” where the River Windrush gently winds through the village, flanked by manicured greens and iconic low stone bridges set against honey-coloured buildings.

From there, we head to the quieter, equally stunning Lower Slaughter, a postcard-perfect village with the infant River Eye flowing past elegant stone cottages and across tiny bridges, all surrounded by peaceful, tree-lined greens.

Next is the tranquil and less-travelled Upper Slaughter, a peaceful cluster of cottages around a traditional village green. Though more understated, its timeless charm and unspoilt character offer a welcome pause in pace.

We’ll then make our way to the secluded village of Naunton, nestled in a valley with views over the rolling Cotswolds landscape. Here, we’ll find a medieval church and a cosy village pub — the perfect spot for a well-earned pint before continuing our walk.

Set amid woodland paths, gentle hills, and scenic valleys of the Eye and Windrush, this walk offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, rural tranquillity, and traditional English village life — whichever version of the route we follow.

Check the description for regular updates or changes in the event date.

The walk will be at a medium pace and is expected to finish a bit late in the day. We will go to a pub/restaurant at the end of the walk, after which we shall start our way back towards London.

🥪 What to Bring:

• Sturdy hiking boots or shoes
• Packed lunch and snacks
• Plenty of water (at least 1 litre)
• Clothes (weather-dependent)
• Sun protection
• A camera for capturing those stunning views!

📋 Important Notes:

• Please stay with or behind the walk leader to maintain group pace and cohesion.
• This is a voluntary activity. Participants are responsible for their own safety and for respecting fellow walkers, wildlife, and the environment. No risk or liability is inferred or accepted by the organizer.
• Please make sure to read the about us section of the group before signing up for the events. [https://www.meetup.com/free-hiking-outdoor-fitness-and-social-activities]

📝 Sign-Up & Attendance:
Please RSVP to confirm your spot. If your plans change, kindly update your RSVP to allow others to join.

📱 For any issues, contact me via mobile/WhatsApp at 07830374629.
Look forward to seeing you for an unforgettable day of hiking at Cotswolds!