Guided Luxury Cotswold Walking Tour

Your adventure begins in the historic city of Oxford, where your friendly local guide will meet you at 9:00 AM at Oxford Railway Station. From here, we drive out into the Cotswolds, watching the city give way to rolling countryside dressed in the warm tones of autumn.

Your first walk begins in the village of Snowshill, where winding country lanes lead through woods and hedgerows glowing with fall colour. Crisp air, the crunch of fallen leaves underfoot, and the quiet beauty of harvest season make this an especially peaceful time to explore. Dry stone walls frame views of patchwork fields and gently sloping hills, while the trees lining the trail put on a spectacular seasonal show.

Following the Cotswold Way, we make our way into Broadway, a golden-stone village that’s especially striking under a canopy of fall colour. Here, we’ll stop for a delicious lunch at the historic Lygon Arms, a traditional coaching inn. 

In the afternoon, we walk up to Broadway Tower, where sweeping views of the Cotswolds are made even more dramatic by the season’s changing leaves. After taking in the scenery, we continue on foot to your luxurious countryside retreat.

Settle into your hand-picked, luxury accommodation with a welcome drink, and unwind over a seasonal dinner made with local produce, celebrating the hearty flavours of autumn.

Set out along the Cotswold Way, walking through fields adorned with lambs into the historic town of Chipping Campden. With its thatched cottages, honey-hued stone buildings, and rich heritage the town is a true Cotswold classic.

There are plenty of options for a food stop and refuel from charming British pubs to artisan cafés bursting with local flavor. In the Cotswolds, good food is a way of life.

A short journey (or optional walk) takes us to Hidcote, one of England’s most celebrated gardens. In autumn, Hidcote Manor Garden offers a vibrant display of seasonal colours. You can admire the rich hues of acers and stroll through beech tree avenues showcasing brilliant bronze and golden tones. The garden’s renowned Red Borders reach their peak, featuring vibrant dahlias that complement the autumnal palette. Designed by horticulturist Lawrence Johnston, Hidcote’s series of outdoor “rooms” provide a unique and immersive experience, making it a must visit destination during the fall season.

Return to your hotel and enjoy the evening at your leisure. With the long golden light of an English summer evening, perhaps take a stroll, opt for in-room dining, or simply unwind in luxury.

Today’s walk takes you across Cleeve Hill, the highest point in the Cotswolds, offering vast views and a true sense of open space. Follow ancient tracks past Belas Knap, a Neolithic long barrow whispering stories from 5,000 years ago.

Enjoy lunch at The Lion Inn, a cosy country pub where rustic elegance meets seriously good food.

Following a refuel, step into the pages of history with a private tour of Sudeley Castle, once home to Queen Katherine Parr. Roam its romantic ruins, formal gardens, and historic collections before enjoying an optional afternoon tea, a delightful British tradition of finger sandwiches, warm scones, and sweet treats.

This evening we transfer to the hilltop town of Painswick, the ‘Queen of the Cotswolds’. 

Once settled into your new accommodation you have another night to explore at your leisure. Painswick is a fabulous market town so we recommend a gentle evening stroll through the quaint streets. There is the option of dining at the hotel restaurant or enjoying upscale British pub fare at the Falcon Inn, situated just a short walk from the hotel.

This morning, set out on a scenic circular walk through the Slad Valley, a peaceful stretch of countryside rich in natural beauty and literary history. As autumn settles in, the woodlands glow with copper and gold and the valley takes on a quieter, reflective charm. Follow the Laurie Lee Wildlife Way, a trail that winds through gently rolling hills, meadows, and woodland paths carpeted with fallen leaves.

The landscape, famously captured in Laurie Lee’s Cider with Rosie, feels especially evocative in the autumn light. Crisp air, soft rustling trees, and distant birdsong make this a deeply atmospheric walk through one of the Cotswolds’ most beloved valleys.

You’ll arrive in the village of Slad, where a warm, hearty lunch at the esteemed Woolpack Inn awaits. Perfect after a morning walking amongst the rich colours of the English countryside in autumn. 

After lunch, enjoy a private tour of the enchanting Rococo Gardens, a hidden gem that takes on a rich, golden glow in autumn. As the leaves turn, the garden’s winding paths and whimsical 18th-century follies are framed by vibrant shades of amber, crimson, and ochre.

The garden’s dramatic design, with sweeping views and playful architecture, feels especially magical against the warm tones of autumn, perfect for a quiet stroll and a moment of reflection in this peaceful, historic setting.

For the evening, you return to The Painswick for your final night. There is the option to enjoy their renowned 6-course tasting menu, which boasts fresh flavours, local ingredients and seasonal flare.

We begin this morning with a short journey to Westonbirt Arboretum, one of the most spectacular tree collections in the world. In autumn, this National Arboretum transforms into a breathtaking display of fiery reds, deep oranges, and golden yellows, rivaling the famous fall colors of New England. Stroll through its ancient woodland, admire the towering Japanese maples, and take in the sweeping views from the Tree Canopy Walkway, which offers a unique perspective of the forest from above. A private guided walk will reveal the history of the arboretum and its diverse range of trees from around the globe.

Following your morning soaking up Autumn colour and the tranquility of nature you’ll visit the nearby market town of Tetbury, known for its elegant 17th and 18th century architecture and association with the Royal Family. Enjoy a relaxed lunch at a local cafe or historic pub settled amongst traditional Cotswold streets.

After exploring the charming town, you’ll spend the afternoon visiting the City of Bath and getting a true sense of Bath’s rich history with a guided walking tour. Marvel at the ancient Roman Baths, stroll past the sweeping curve of the Royal Crescent, and cross the elegant Pulteney Bridge. For literature lovers, an optional visit to the Jane Austen Centre offers a peek into the world of one of Bath’s most famous residents.

This evening celebrate the end of your adventure with a farewell dinner in one of Bath’s most distinguished restaurants. 

Enjoy a final breakfast at your leisure before departing. Whether you’re continuing your journey in Bath or transferring to the railway station with Active England, your Cotswolds adventure leaves you invigorated.