September 25, 2025
9 mins
Destination: United Kingdom
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Some say the Cotswolds are one of the most beautiful places to cycle in the UK.
A National Landscape, the Cotswolds is known for its gentle hills, quiet backroads, and charming villages with golden-stone cottages and cosy tearooms.
Throughout the year, cyclists and walkers alike descend on this beautiful region of the UK, ready to explore the hidden gems and well-trod trails. Visiting this way means you see so much more than simply driving from one point of interest to another.
In this guide to cycling in the Cotswolds, we’ll explore what biking is like here, plus some of the Cotswolds’ best-known routes, from the Stratford Greenway to the Cotswold Line.
What is Biking in the Cotswolds Like?
If you visit any town or village in the Cotswolds, you’ll usually find a group of cyclists stopping to catch their breath mid-ride – often with a sweet treat in hand from one of the local bakeries.
These quiet country lanes were made for two wheels, and with a whole network of cycling routes connecting places like Cirencester, Burford, and Stow-on-the-Wold, it’s easy to see why.
Although there are plenty of main roads in this National Landscape, the number of smaller lanes vastly outnumber them. If you know you’re way around (like we do), it’s easy to plot a Cotswold cycling route that keeps to the quieter, more scenic roads.
Road quality can vary dramatically across the region, from butter-smooth, recently re-surfaced roads that are a joy to ride, to back roads that have seen better days. That said, most modern road bikes (those with 28mm tyres – or wider) will be more than sufficient for riding in the Cotswolds.
Cycling in the Cotswolds offers a more gentle cycle than places like the Lake District, as the hills aren’t quite as steep. That said, if you are a rider looking for a challenge, the Cotswold escarpment in the west of the region is the place to find a bounty of climbs. Some of our favourite cycling climbs in the UK are here.
Though the Cotswolds can feel remote between villages, it’s not long before you pedal back into civilisation. The larger villages and towns of the Cotswolds offer the opportunity to refuel and go again.
For first-time cycling visitors to the UK – the Cotswolds is a great choice. There’s a good vareity of riding to be had and the landscapes and history offer a proper slice of England rural living. Ultimately, the Cotswolds attract everyone from keen cyclists to those are looking for an adventure.
Popular Biking Routes in the Cotswolds
With so many quiet backroads, the Cotswolds offer something for everyone, from short rides like the Stratford Greenway to the Thames Path, a 185-mile (298 km) route, which you can both hike and cycle. Below, we’ve shared some of the most popular routes in the Cotswolds, as well as our top places to visit while you’re in the area.
The Cotswold Line NCN 442
This gently undulating route along National Cycle Network Route 442 follows quiet country lanes that mirror the path of the Cotswold Line railway, linking classic market towns and pretty villages – all the way from Oxford to Worcester.
If you’re looking for somewhere to stop, roughly halfway for refreshments, the Campden Coffee is a local favourite for cyclists, with homemade cakes, fresh coffee and bike storage out back. Plus, Chipping Campden is well worth a wander around too!
Start: Oxford
Finish: Worcester
Distance: 77 miles (123 km)
Active England Tip: A short detour takes you to Hidcote Gardens – one of our favourite locations in the entire region.
NCN 48 – Cirencester to Northleach
This is a short but scenic stretch of National Cycle Route 48, ideal for a casual ride. Starting in Cirencester, often dubbed the ‘Capital of the Cotswolds’, you’ll cycle past Roman walls and through a landscape rich in agricultural heritage.
The route winds through open farmland and peaceful lanes before arriving in Northleach, a lesser-known town with a grand wool church and a medieval market square. Make sure you stop at The Cotswold Lion Café, tucked inside the town’s visitor centre, perfect for a relaxed lunch or a homemade scone and tea.
This route is ideal for newer cyclists or those looking to combine a ride with sightseeing and café stops.
Start: Cirencester
Finish: Northleach
Distance: 14 miles (22.5 km)
Active England Tip: Cirencester itself is home to the Corinium Museum, which is well worth a pre-ride visit if you’re into Roman history.
Stratford Greenway
This flat, traffic-free ride along a disused railway line is ideal for families and casual cyclists. It starts just outside of Stratford-upon-Avon, the birthplace of William Shakespeare. Stop for refreshments at Carriages Café, set in a converted 1950s railway carriage along the trail, and enjoy a slice of cake or hearty breakfast.
Start: Stratford-upon-Avon
Finish: Long Marston
Distance: 5 miles (8 km) one-way
Active England Tip: If you don’t have a bike, you can rent them at The Stratford Bike Hire depot located right on the Greenway.
Oxford to Blenheim Palace Loop
If you’re visiting the Cotswolds, it would be remiss not to visit Blenheim Palace. A UNESCO World Heritage Site and the birthplace of Winston Churchill, Blenheim Palace is one of the UK’s most impressive stately homes. You can cycle into the estate parkland (entry fee applies) on designated bike-friendly routes. The views of the lake and palace are breathtaking.
This is a slightly longer ride, at 30 miles (48 km), starting and finishing in Oxford. It passes through the historic town of Woodstock, where you’ll find Blenheim Palace. From here, the route loops through tranquil Cotswold countryside, passing through villages and farmland before returning to Oxford.
Start/Finish: Oxford (City Centre or Oxford Parkway Station)
Distance: 30 miles (48 km) loop
Active England Tip: On your way back into Oxford, you can hop onto a section of the Oxford Canal towpath for a traffic-free finish into the city centre.
Looking for more routes? Take a look at our article: 8 of the Best Cycling Routes in the Cotswolds.
Do You Need an E-bike When Riding in the Cotswolds?
The Cotswolds is famous for gently rolling hills, but there are certainly a few short sharp climbs that can sometimes catch you off-guard. If you’re a regular cyclist or have a good level of fitness, you should be fine on a traditional bike. However, if you’re riding in a group with mixed abilities or feel like you may need an extra push up the hills, an e-bike is a welcome alternative, giving you the ability to go further and faster.
Places to Stay When Biking in the Cotswolds
The Manor House Hotel, Moreton-in-Marsh
If you’re looking for a slightly more luxurious place to stay – somewhere to relax after a day of cycling – this 16th-century manor is the hotel for you. It’s central, elegant, and has a 2‑AA Rosette restaurant.
Located in Burford, The Lamb is a fine base for exploring the Cotswolds. Expect rooms with rustic charm and hearty breakfasts.
This stylish countryside retreat has 13 rustic‑chic bedrooms and self‑catering cottages. It’s bike friendly and has a focus on organic food and sustainability.
The Voco Hotel is nestled on the banks of the River Thames, in Sandford-on-Thames, just a few miles from Oxford. The hotel is Green Key accredited and embraces sustainable practices. Cycle in the morning and spend the afternoon relaxing in the hotel’s spa.
Weather in the Cotswolds
The weather in Cotswolds can be quite changeable but generally the summers are warm, springs moderate, winters cold, and autumns moderate too. Whatever season you’re visiting during, make sure you’re prepared with layers, waterproofs and or suncream.
When to go Biking in the Cotswolds
The weather plays a huge part in planning your cycling trip, as rain can make your ride increasingly challengeable – as well as dangerous. The best time to go biking in the Cotswolds is during late spring, summer, and early autumn. This is when the weather is warmest, days longer, and the chance of rain is lower.
If you’re doing a long-distance route, we recommend tackling it in July and August, when summer’s long days and moderate temperature create the ideal conditions.
Things to see Along the Way
Cycling in the Cotswolds isn’t just about the ride, it’s about the places you pass along the way. From historic manor houses and sweeping views to Roman ruins and world-famous palaces, there’s plenty to discover from the saddle. Here are some of our top places to see along the way when cycling in the Cotswolds.
The Cotswolds Line
Broadway Village
Known as the ‘Jewel of the Cotswolds’, this postcard-perfect village is ideal for a refreshment break at the Broadway Deli or a stroll through its boutique-lined High Street.
Snowshill Manor & Garden (detour)
Just 2 miles off-route, Snowshill Manor & Garden makes for a lovely detour if you enjoy visiting National Trust sites. Expect an eclectic collection of treasures, from Samurai armour to spinning wheels, and beautiful gardens.
Evesham Abbey Park
Spend some time at the end of your ride discovering the ruins of an ancient abbey and relax in the riverside garden.
NCN 48: Cirencester to Northleach
Corinium Museum (Cirencester)
Before you jump on the bike, dive into the Roman history of the region with impressive mosaics, artefacts, and family-friendly exhibits, at the Corinium Museum.
Church of St Peter & St Paul (Northleach)
As you arrive into Northleach, you’ll find the Church of St Peter & St Paul just off the market square. A grand ‘wool church’ showcasing Northleach’s medieval wealth, it’s worth a quick look around.
The Old Prison Café & Heritage Centre (Northleach)
The Old Prison Café & Heritage Centre is a fascinating 18th-century building where you can grab a coffee and explore old prison cells and rural life exhibits – it’s bike friendly, too with bike racks available.
Stratford Greenway
Stratford-upon-Avon
Before you start your cycle, take a walk around Stratford-upon-Avon and explore the birthplace of Shakespeare – wander by the river or visit the Royal Shakespeare Theatre.
Carriages Café
Midway along the route, this quirky café is housed in a vintage train carriage. It’s about 1.5 miles from the start of the route, so if you’re cycling to Long Marston and back, it’s a great place to stop on your way back to Stratford-upon-Avon.
Anne Hathaway’s Cottage (detour)
Anne Hathaway’s cottage is about 500m off the route, and is well worth a visit if you’re a fan of Hathaway! This charming thatched cottage was Shakespeare’s wife’s family home and offers gardens and period interiors to explore.
Oxford to Blenheim Palace Loop
Blenheim Palace (Woodstock)
Whether you cycle the Oxford loop or travel by car, you can’t visit the Cotswolds without going to Blenheim Palace.
Woodstock Town
Woodstock is a lively little town full of independent shops, delis, and old inns. It’s a great spot to break up your loop with lunch or coffee.
Additional Must-See Cycle Stops In the Cotswolds
Burford
A classic Cotswold town with a bustling High Street, medieval church, and sweeping views from the Windrush Valley.
Stow-on-the-Wold
Visit the famous yew-tree-framed church door, browse antique shops, or enjoy a pub lunch at The Porch House – one of England’s oldest inns.
Bibury
Home to Arlington Row, one of the most photographed streets in the country.
Lower & Upper Slaughter
These idyllic twin villages are linked by a quiet country lane beside the River Eye. Stop for photos at the old mill or lunch on the riverside.
Discover more of our must-see Cotswolds villages and towns here.
Biking Tours in the Cotswolds
Biking Tours are a brilliant way to explore the Cotswolds, while taking the stress out of planning and bringing confidence to less experienced riders. From fully guided adventures with luggage transfers and support vans, to self-guided routes complete with GPS and local tips, there’s something for every rider and every ability.
At Active England, we have a variety of Cycling Tours throughout the year – why not join our next one?
If you’re planning your next cycling trip in the UK, The Cotswolds offers a little bit of everything: quiet roads, quaint towns, independent cafés and pubs, and a good amount of history, too.
