Where to Visit
The Cotswolds planning rule
Most people try to do too much. The best days choose one area, anchor lunch, then add two to three villages that sit naturally on the route. If you try to cover the whole region, you will spend the day driving, parking, and backtracking.
Choose your Cotswolds style
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Classic first time villages (pretty, easy, popular) - Broadway, Bourton-on-the-Water, Stow-in-the-Wold, Bibury
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Quiet and scenic lanes (slower, less crowded) - Upper & Lower Slaughter, Great Tew
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Film, TV and iconic stops (if relevant to your content) - Lacock, Snowshill
Recommended village clusters
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North Cotswolds (Broadway, Chipping Campden, Stow)
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Central Cotswolds (Burford, Bibury, Bourton)
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South Cotswolds (Painswick, Stroud-side villages)
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West edge and film locations (Lacock, Castle Combe)
Frequently Asked Questions
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How many villages can you see in one day?
Most visitors enjoy 3–5 villages in a day depending on distances and stops. -
Do I need reservations for popular pubs/restaurants?
Often yes, especially weekends and school holidays - book ahead when possible. -
Is it possible to visit without a car?
Yes, but you need the right bases. See itineraries and getting around.
