If you’ve ever dreamed of stepping into a fairytale with rolling green hills, charming antique shops, and villages built from honey-colored limestone in the English countryside, then this Cotswolds itinerary is for you. I have to say that Cotswolds is absolutely for the girls. It’s also wildly romantic, so whether you’re visiting with friends, your partner, or solo, I promise… a TIME will be had!

Experiencing the Cotswolds had been such a bucket list moment of mine, and spending a few fall days here was nothing short of magical. That said, having only spent 3 days there our time felt a little rushed. This is a region meant to be savored slowly, lingered in, and lived in at an unhurried pace. Here, mornings begin with mist drifting over open fields, afternoons are spent browsing antique shops and cozy tea rooms, and evenings end beside crackling fireplaces in historic inns.

In this guide, I’m sharing the Best Villages to Visit in the Cotswolds, Where to Stay, Best Things to Do, and everything I learned along the way. Buckle up, fam — your new favorite destination is officially loading.

Where Are The Cotswolds?

The Cotswolds are the quintessential English Countryside situated about 2 hours west of London. In order to get there I recommend hiring a car. You can take a train to Moreton in Marsh and hire a car there if you don’t want to drive too far however, it’s crucial you rent one. This way you can take things at your own pace. Do note, that they drive on the opposite side of the road so you must feel comfortable with that. Having done it myself, it feels weird at first but surprisingly you get used to it quite quickly. With that being said, the roads are quite tiny so be aware of that when choosing which kind of car to rent.

How Long to Stay in The Cotswolds?

We personally stayed in the Cotswolds for three evenings, and while we were able to see a lot, it definitely felt a bit rushed. The Cotswolds isn’t the kind of place you should be sprinting through with a packed itinerary. It’s meant for slow mornings, long lunches, wandering without a plan, and saying “let’s just stay here a little longer”.

With that being said, if I were to visit again, I truly think the sweet spot for staying in the Cotswolds is one week. That gives you the space to explore multiple villages without feeling like you’re constantly on the move, plus time to actually enjoy where you’re staying. Think cozy pub dinners, antique browsing that turns into an afternoon, countryside walks that don’t need to be timed, and evenings where you’re not rushing back out the door.

A full week lets you settle into the rhythm of the countryside — and that’s really where the magic of the Cotswolds lives.

While all opinions and recommendations are always my own, my content on this blog post may contain affiliate links for hotels I’ve traveled to, tours I’ve completed, and products I recommend. This means I get a small commission (at no additional cost to you) if you book a stay or purchase a product after clicking one of these links. As always, I am so thankful for your support to continue offering free resources.

Where to Stay in The Cotswolds?

1. Chipping Campden — Classic Countryside Elegance

Chipping Campden is one of the most charming villages in the Cotswolds. It’s famous for its historic High Street, beautiful stone cottages, local galleries, and artisan shops. It’s also conveniently located near Broadway and Snowshill, making it a great base to explore the northern Cotswolds at a relaxed pace. We personally stayed here and would highly recommend this town as it’s close to most everything that will be on this itinerary. The only downside is, it’s quite far from Castle Combe.

• HYLL Hotel — This recently revamped 14th-century manor is the stay-you’ll-remember. Set on 54 acres of rolling grounds with views across five counties, it blends luxury and laid-back countryside vibes perfectly. It has all the comfort of a modern hotel but they kept the charm so nicely especially with the exposed beams in the rooms that make you feel as though you’re a princess in a tower. The seasonal menu is divine, and it’s just the kind of place where you’ll want to slow your pace and stay awhile. Book your stay here!

2. Stow-on-the-Wold — Central & Character-Filled

Stow-on-the-Wold is one of those lively market towns that instantly pulls you in. With charming streets, antique shops you’ll want to pop into “just for a minute,” and a classic English town square that feels straight out of a movie. If you’re a lover for antiques, this it THE TOWN for that. There are so many charming places to get lost in. It’s also super central within the Cotswolds, which makes it the perfect home base. From here, hopping over to nearby villages like Bourton-on-the-Water or Bibury feels easy and stress-free.

• The Old Stocks Inn — One of the most beloved boutique inns in the region, right on the market square. It’s stylish but welcoming, with excellent food and quaint, comfortable rooms — ideal for both couples and friends alike. Book your stay here!

3. Upper Slaughter — Timeless Charm & True Cotswold Quiet

If you’re craving that quintessential countryside escape — the slow, peaceful mornings, birdsong outside your window, and streets quiet enough to hear your thoughts — then Upper Slaughter is your kind of place. This tiny village is one of the Cotswolds’ best-kept secrets. Filled with stone cottages, gentle lanes, and a river that winds right through town. It makes every stroll feel like a breath of fresh air. It’s not loud, it’s not flashy, it’s just beautifully still — and that’s exactly why people fall in love with it.

• Lords of the Manor Hotel – Right in the heart of this peaceful village sits the Lords of the Manor Hotel. The kind of place you picture in your mind when you imagine a classic Cotswolds stay. This historic hotel blends timeless elegance with genuinely warm, welcoming service, so you feel both indulged and at home. The rooms are refined yet comfortable, the gardens are a lovely spot for a quiet cup of tea, and the restaurant serves seasonal food that makes every meal feel special. Book your stay here!

Things to Know About Visiting the Cotswolds

1. Plan for mornings and evenings
Some of the most popular villages—like Castle Combe and Bibury—can get crowded, especially in the late morning and afternoon. If you want to experience them in peace, aim for sunrise or consider staying overnight. Early mornings in these villages are truly magical and make for the best photos.

2. Walking the Cotswold Way
If you love wandering on foot, the Cotswold Way is an absolute must. This 102-mile trail stretches from Chipping Campden in the north down to Bath in the south, winding through rolling hills, charming villages, and quiet farmland. Even if you don’t tackle the whole thing, doing a short section—like Stow-on-the-Wold to the Slaughters—is a perfect way to soak in the landscape and get a real sense of the countryside at your own pace.

3. Slow travel is key
The Cotswolds are not about rushing from one village to the next. Take time to enjoy a long lunch, explore small garden spots, or pop into a local café. Places like Daylesford Farm and The Pig are more than stops—they’re experiences that make your trip feel extra special.

4. Car vs. train
While some villages are accessible by train, having a car gives you the freedom to explore more off-the-beaten-path spots like Snowshill or Barnsley. That said, if you’re using public transport, focus on villages with good connections, like Kingham, which is train-friendly and still incredibly charming.

5. Pack for all weather
The Cotswolds are gorgeous in every season, but the weather can be unpredictable. Comfortable walking shoes are essential, and a light trench coat (name something more English that that!) or umbrella can save the day. A scarf and layers will also help if you’re exploring early in the morning or at sunset.

Best Villages to Visit in The Cotswolds

Broadway

Broadway is one of those Cotswolds villages that feels like it was plucked straight from a storybook. Stone cottages, charming boutiques, and streets lined with fall foliage. It’s effortlessly picturesque, but with that beauty comes popularity. Out of all the villages I visited in the Cotswolds, Broadway was by far the busiest, so timing your visit makes all the difference.

If you’re heading here, I highly recommend starting your morning at Broadway Tower. Perched high above the village, the tower offers sweeping countryside views that feel especially magical in the early hours when the crowds are few. Arriving early means you’ll have the peaceful atmosphere almost to yourself. You’ll need to pay for parking at the tower, but it’s well worth it for the experience. I also didn’t realize there would be deer at the park. It was such a lovely way to start our morning!

Afterward, make your way down into the village before mid-morning. Parking in Broadway is limited and fills up quickly. So an early arrival is key if you want to avoid circling for a spot. Trust me — this is one place where waking up early pays off, rewarding you with quiet streets, golden light, and the chance to experience Broadway at its most charming. If there is one stop to make in Broadway, it’s Broadway Deli. I could spend hours in this store just looking at all the unique food offerings. You can also dine in here or they have a counter for takeaway toasties they will heat up for you. We indulged in a Shepards Pie and ate it at a nearby park. It was lovely! Finally, the coffee shop was divine.

Stow-on-the-Wold

Stow-on-the-Wold is one of those Cotswolds villages that immediately captures your heart. It’s charming, refined, and full of quiet character. Perched on a hilltop, its winding streets are lined with honey-colored stone buildings, chic antique shops, and curated boutiques that feel like a treasure hunt waiting to happen. It’s the kind of place where you wander without a plan and somehow end up discovering something beautiful around every corner.

For my afternoon tea lovers you need to visit Lucy’s Tearoom. This quaint shop is beloved and housed in a historic building. They do not take reservations and instead operate on a first come first serve basis. My best advice would be to visit this spot first once you arrive in the village and put your name down. There are tons of places to keep you busy waiting for your table! And it’s right next to the church discussed below.

One of my favorite hidden gems here is St. Edward’s Church, home to the famous “Doors of Durin.” Framed by ancient yew trees, the arched doorway looks as though it belongs in a Tolkien novel. In fact, it’s widely believed to have inspired the entrance to the Mines of Moria. It can be busy but most people visiting take their pictures quickly and go on there way.

After a day of wandering, dinner at The Porch House is an absolute must. Known as the oldest inn in England, it blends history with elevated, cozy dining. It’s so atmospheric with roaring fireplaces, candlelit tables, and classic British dishes done beautifully. We had a delicious meal here and everything was divine including the Shepards pie. Do you see pattern here? It’s the perfect place to end an afternoon in Stow-on-the-Wold, enjoying a space that has welcomed travelers for nearly a thousand years.

Best Antique Shops on Stow-on-the-Wold

For all my vintage lovers this is the spot to be! Many of the best shops are clustered around the Market Square and Sheep Street, making it easy to hop from one to the next as you explore the village. Here is a list of antique shops to add to your list:

• Tara Antique Center: the largest one we visited with tons of different rooms with every type of item you can imagine.
• Little Window Home & Antiques: part antique store part home store with the most lovely owner who will help you find whatever you’re looking for.
• White Cottage: if you’re a digger this one is for you. I personally am not so the disorganization of this store made me a little crazy but I would still recommend a quick stop nonetheless.
• Baggott & Co Antique Dealers: this one is a bit off the beaten path as you need to walk down an alley to reach it but they had stunning items and the cutest alley cat to greet you 🙂
• Durham House Antiques
• Tudor House Antiques

Bourton on The Water

Bourton-on-the-Water feels like a real-life postcard, with charming canals and stone bridges that instantly slow you down. The village is incredibly walkable, making it easy to wander at your own pace and explore without any real plan. In the fall, it feels especially idyllic, with golden leaves lining the river and a quieter, more romantic atmosphere.

Take a break at The Cornish Bakery for a warm coffee or pastry, perfect for cozy autumn mornings. The Victorian Christmas Shop is worth a stop any time of year and somehow feels magical, even in October. We loved admiring all the unique ornaments and it’s the perfect souvenir to bring home. The Little Nook is a must stop with Cotswolds inspired gifts and homewares. Don’t miss the charming red telephone booth that is just perfect for taking photos.

Finally, The Cotswold Motoring Museum adds a fun, nostalgic twist and is surprisingly charming for all ages. Between the canals, bridges, and storybook streets, Bourton-on-the-Water is a place you’ll never rush through!

Bibury

Bibury is often called one of the smallest villages in the Cotswolds, but it’s absolutely not one to skip. In fact, it’s frequently described as one of the most beautiful villages in England. Once you arrive, it’s easy to see why. Tucked along the River Coln, Bibury feels like stepping into a storybook, with honey-colored stone cottages, gently flowing water, and an almost unreal sense of calm.

One of the main draws here is The Swan Hotel, perfectly set along the river. On a quiet day, you can sit in the riverside chairs and soak in the view. Sometimes even spotting the hotel’s resident swan gliding through the water. While we didn’t get to see the swan during our visit, the river was full of the cutest ducks, which honestly made the moment just as charming.

A stop at Arlington Row is an absolute must. These iconic 14th-century weavers’ cottages are among the most photographed spots in the Cotswolds, and standing there in person truly feels like watching history stand still.

And if you’re craving something sweet, don’t miss Eleven Bibury. Their pastries are incredible, and they also offer a lovely afternoon tea. Perfect for slowing down and savoring the magic of this tiny village. Bibury may be small, but it leaves a lasting impression.

Upper Slaugher + Lower Slaughter

Upper Slaughter and Lower Slaughter are two of the most idyllic villages in the Cotswolds. They’re connected by a peaceful riverside walk that feels straight out of a period drama. Despite the dramatic name (which actually comes from an old Anglo-Saxon word meaning “muddy place”), these villages are anything but—it’s pure countryside perfection.

Lower Slaughter is the more well-known of the two, with its gently winding River Eye, arched stone bridges, and classic cottages that look untouched by time. It’s the kind of place where you’ll want to slow down, wander without a plan, and just listen to the water flowing by. The Old Mill is a popular stop, and even on busier days, the village still manages to feel calm and charming.

Upper Slaughter, just a short and scenic walk away, feels even quieter and more residential. There are fewer crowds here, which makes it perfect if you’re craving that peaceful, lived-in Cotswolds atmosphere. Strolling through Upper Slaughter feels intimate and local—like you’ve been let in on a secret.

One of the best ways to experience them is by walking from Stow-on-the-Wold to the Slaughters and back. The route is roughly 7.5 miles and can take around 4 hours to complete. It winds through rolling fields, quiet country lanes, and classic stone stiles, offering that quintessential English countryside experience at every turn. It’s an easy, scenic walk that allows you to truly slow down and appreciate how untouched this area feels—far removed from the rush of everyday life.

Visiting both villages together is one of those simple but unforgettable experiences that makes the Cotswolds so special. No big attractions, no rushing—just timeless beauty, soft countryside views, and the kind of slow travel moments that stay with you long after you leave.

Chipping Campden

Chipping Campden is one of those Cotswolds towns that instantly feels welcoming. The kind of place where you arrive “just to look around” and end up lingering way longer than planned. It’s a classic market town with a lively high street, beautiful stone buildings, and a buzzing but still cozy energy that makes it a perfect base for exploring the northern Cotswolds.

Fun facts you’ll love:
Chipping Campden is best known as the starting point of the Cotswold Way, a 102-mile walking trail that stretches all the way to Bath. Even if you’re not tackling the full hike (same), there’s something special about standing at the trail marker knowing how much countryside adventure begins here. The town also has deep Arts and Crafts movement roots, thanks to Charles Robert Ashbee, which explains why craftsmanship and creativity feel woven into the fabric of the village.

Best cafés + sweet stops:
You’re spoiled for choice here, honestly.

• Huxleys is a must—perfect for brunch, coffee, or a casual lunch with a stylish but relaxed vibe.
• Badger’s Hall Tea Room is ideal if you’re craving a traditional cream tea moment (slow, cozy, no rush).
• The Bantam Tea Rooms is small, charming, and great for a quick tea-and-cake stop while wandering the high street.
• And if you’re in the mood for something more elevated later in the day, Eight Bells Inn is a great spot for a classic pub meal with serious Cotswolds charm.

Things to do + see:

Stroll the high street and pop into independent shops—this is one of the best places in the Cotswolds for antiques, local goods, and thoughtful souvenirs that don’t feel touristy. If you enjoy gardens, Hidcote Manor Garden and Kiftsgate Court Gardens are both nearby and absolutely worth the short drive, especially in late spring and summer.

If you’re a walker (or just pretending to be one for the aesthetic), even a short section of the Cotswold Way outside town is worth doing—it’s all rolling hills, open skies, and that peaceful countryside quiet that makes you forget what day it is.

Chipping Campden manages to feel lively without being overwhelming, historic without feeling frozen in time. It’s the kind of place that makes you slow down naturally—and somehow always feels like the right place to end (or begin) a perfect Cotswolds day.

Castle Combe

Castle Combe is easily the most popular village in the Cotswolds—and for very good reason. It’s impossibly idyllic, with perfectly preserved stone cottages, a gentle stream running through the village, and views that feel almost too perfect to be real. It’s also home to one of the most beautiful hotels in the region, The Manor House, which only adds to its fairytale appeal.

But with that beauty comes crowds. I had read so much advice saying the secret was to visit at sunset, when the day-trippers leave and the village quiets down. I can confirm that this was… very much not the case. It was still incredibly busy as the sun went down, with plenty of people hoping to catch that golden-hour magic.

If you really want to experience Castle Combe at its most charming and peaceful, I truly believe the best option is staying overnight and visiting at sunrise. Early morning is when the village finally feels like itself—quiet, misty, and almost untouched, before the crowds roll in.

If an overnight stay isn’t in the cards, another lovely way to experience Castle Combe is by spending time at The Manor House itself. Booking afternoon tea or dinner allows you to soak in the setting at a slower pace while still enjoying the magic that makes this village so iconic. Castle Combe may be popular, but when experienced thoughtfully, it still manages to feel special.

Lesser Known Villages in The Cotswolds

If you’re craving the Cotswolds charm without the shoulder-to-shoulder crowds, these lesser-known villages are where the magic really happens. They’re quieter, more lived-in, and perfect for slow mornings, long lunches, and wandering with no real plan.

Kingham

Often called a “foodie village,” Kingham somehow manages to feel both polished and wonderfully relaxed. It’s home to some of the region’s best restaurants and cozy pubs, but still keeps that classic village feel with stone cottages and a charming high street. It’s also one of the easiest villages to reach by train from London, making it a perfect base if you want countryside vibes without a car.

Daylesford Farm

Just outside Kingham, a visit to Daylesford Farm is an absolute must. This organic farm shop is so much more than a place to pick up groceries—it’s an experience. Wander the beautifully curated shop, grab a coffee or brunch at the café, and explore the gardens and surrounding countryside. Everything here feels thoughtful and intentional, from the seasonal food to the design details.

Snowshill

Snowshill feels like a true hidden gem. Tucked away from the main tourist routes, it’s peaceful, picturesque, and surrounded by rolling hills that make every view feel cinematic. The village is best known for Snowshill Manor and Gardens, which are especially stunning in spring and summer, but even a quiet wander through the village feels incredibly special.

Lacock Village

Lacock is a village that feels frozen in time. With its historic streets and honey-toned buildings, it’s been used as a filming location for Harry Potter and Pride & Prejudice, yet still manages to feel calm. Especially earlier in the day. A visit to Lacock Abbey is a must, and wandering the village feels like stepping straight into a different era.

Barnsley

Barnsley is small, refined, and effortlessly beautiful. It’s perfect for travelers looking for something peaceful and elegant, with Barnsley House Gardens nearby and quiet village lanes made for slow strolling. While not a village itself, a visit to The Pig absolutely belongs on this list. Located just outside Barnsley, this countryside hotel is known for its garden-led, seasonal food and relaxed yet elevated atmosphere. Whether you stop in for brunch, dinner, or just a drink, it’s one of those experiences that instantly makes a Cotswolds trip feel extra special. The grounds are stunning!

These villages may fly under the radar compared to the big-name Cotswolds stops. But that’s exactly what makes them so special. If you’re looking to experience the quieter, more authentic side of the region, this is where you’ll find it.

The Cotswolds are full of picture-perfect villages, rolling countryside, and those slow, quiet moments that make travel feel truly restorative. From the iconic charm of Castle Combe and Bibury to the hidden gems like Kingham, Snowshill, and Barnsley. There’s a rhythm to this region that invites you to slow down, wander without a plan, and soak in every detail. Whether you’re enjoying afternoon tea at Eleven in Bibury, watching the sunrise in Castle Combe, strolling the Cotswold Way between the Slaughters, or stopping at Daylesford Farm and The Pig for a little indulgence, the magic of the Cotswolds is in the little moments.

It’s not about rushing to tick off every village, it’s about letting yourself be present, discovering the spots that speak to you, and savoring the timeless beauty of this corner of England. Honestly, once you’ve experienced it, the Cotswolds stays with you long after you leave. Thanks for reading and make sure to check out more of my UK Travel Guides!

XX,

Courtney