If we had to describe the Cotswolds in one word, it would simply be “magical.” This place looks like it was snatched right out of the pages of a fairytale. You almost expect to see talking woodland creatures and fairies flitting about. While you (most likely) won’t find either of those, you will discover one of the most beautiful places in the UK.
In this complete Cotswold road trip itinerary, we’ll take you through the best of this region. We’ll cover the best villages to visit in the Cotswolds, and plenty of fun things to do along the way. So hire a motorhome, pack your bags, and let the magic start.
Day 1 — Cirencester
Before we get onto some of the best villages in the Cotswolds, we’re going to start our road trip route in Cirencester, but if you’re travelling from the north or west, you could also do the entire itinerary in reverse — just see what works for you!
Cirencester is the largest town and the unofficial ‘Capital of the Cotswolds.’ This market town is filled with charm and plenty of Roman history. There are plenty of independent shops to enjoy, and lovely cafes to grab a cup of coffee or tea.
Head to the world-famous Corinium Museum, which is located on Park Street beside the tallest Yew hedge in the World — fun fact! This museum contains all the archaeology of the Cotswolds, with exhibits ranging from the Neolithic time to the Victorian era.
You can also grab a bite to eat at The Fleece, which is supposedly one of the best places to eat in the Cotswolds. Or if you’re looking for a delicious brunch, we recommend trying Jack’s.
Then, it’s time for another drive. Head to the Cotswold Wildlife Park & Gardens, which is about thirty minutes away. This is one of the best things to do in the Cotswolds, especially if you’re travelling with little ones. Here, you’ll find over 260 different species of animals. The park is set over 160 acres of landscaped parklands, so you can take lovely walks through it.
Staying at: Bilbury Camping
This spacious campsite offers grassy pitches and traditional camping. They have a limited number of pitches so that guests can enjoy privacy in their motorhomes. Bilbury Camping is only a short walk to the local village, and the owners are happy to help with whatever you need. You’re allowed to set up a real campfire, so you can even toast some marshmallows before bed!
Rawbarrow Farm, Arlington Pike, Cirencester GL7 5DN, United Kingdom
51.759277, -1.848394
Day 2 — Stow-on-the-Wold
For the second day of our itinerary, we’re going to head to the idyllic town of Stow-on-the-Wold. It’s widely considered to be one of the best villages in the Cotswolds, but you’ll have to make up your own mind about it. This is the highest town in the Cotswolds, as it is situated 800 feet high on Stow Hill. You’ll definitely notice this incline on your calves! You can take a stroll through town and discover antique shops, gift shops, tea rooms, art galleries and plenty of pubs.
Stow-on-the-Wold used to host some of the country’s largest sheep fairs, with up to 20,000 sheep for sale on any given day. Fortunately, or unfortunately, you won’t find any more sheep fairs here, but there is a farmer’s market held on the main square on the second Tuesday of each month.
While here, check out The Old Stocks Inn, which is the oldest inn in all of England, dating back to the 17th century. Don’t worry, it’s been redecorated since then!
And any fans of Lord of the Rings — or even non-fans, if they exist — must visit St Edward’s Church. This medieval church supposedly inspired J.R.R. Tolkien’s Doors of Durin. It’s never been officially confirmed, but Tolkien took many trips to the Cotswolds, and there is a clear resemblance. The church is open daily and free to enter.
If you’re interested in seeing more history while in Stow-on-the-Wold, head to the historic village stocks. You can even scare the little ones by claiming they’re still in use for children who don’t eat their vegetables — we’re joking; definitely don’t do that!
Staying at: Cotswold Farm Park
You can choose between hardstanding and grass pitches, and pick your preferred spot on the site yourself! While staying at Cotswold Farm Park, you get free entry to Farm Park, where your kids can interact with over 50 breeds of British farm animals. There are also great walking routes starting from this campsite.
Guiting Power, Cheltenham GL54 5FL, United Kingdom
51.936867, -1.834579
Day 3 — Stroud
On your way to Stroud, we recommend stopping at Cleeve Hill, which is the highest point in the Cotswolds. Cleeve Hill offers awe-inspiring views over Cheltenham and the surrounding landscape. It’s one of our favourite dog-walking spots in the Cotswolds, as the open common is ideal for pups who love a good run. There’s also a dog-friendly Rising Sun pub perched on top of the hill, perfect for a well-deserved refreshment after your walk.
Then it’s on to Stroud. One of our favourite things to do in Stroud is visit the Museum in the Park. At this 17th-century house, you’ll find a free-admission local history museum with plenty to learn about. There’s also a lovely walled garden, and a nice park surrounding it. This will tell you everything you need to know about Stroud and the people who have lived there.
Stroud is a market town, so it’s only natural that you’ll do a bit of shopping while there. Each Saturday, Stroud hosts its award-winning market from 9 am to 2 pm, filled with delicious fresh produce. You’ll also find amazing coffee and pastries, which sell out quickly!
For the rest of your time in Stroud, we recommend simply enjoying this lovely town. It’s filled with winding canals, with houseboats bobbing along. If you’d like to go for another walk, head to Woodchester Park or Selsley Common.
Staying at: Ashen Plains
This spacious and secluded campsite is surrounded by natural beech woodland, and will provide you with a sense of tranquillity you won’t easily find elsewhere. Dogs are welcome here, and there are plenty of nearby walking routes to enjoy with them. Fire pits and logs are available upon request, so you can even opt for some rustic campfire cooking during your stay. This eco-friendly campsite has been off-grid since 2014, creating its own solar power.
Unnamed Road, Dursley GL11 6AD, United Kingdom
51.668634, -2.348213
Day 4 — Bath
The final day of your Cotswolds road trip itinerary is very different from the others, as you’re heading to a bigger city! It’s right on the edge of the Cotswolds, and a lovely place to visit. But if you’ve been before or prefer calmer destinations, you can always shorten your trip by a day or head back into the Cotswolds.
The main attraction is, as the name would suggest, the Roman Baths. They were constructed between 60 and 70 AD in the first few decades of Roman Britain. It was originally a temple, and this led to the development of the small Roman urban settlement known as Aquae Sulis around the site. You can explore the Roman Baths, which are still in impeccable shape, and learn more about this time period in Britain. It’s especially fun for little ones, as there is a free audioguide designed just for children!
A Pride and Prejudice fan? Be sure to visit the Jane Austen Centre, a small museum chronicling the life of this talented author, which includes a Regency-style tearoom. Maybe you’ll even find your own Mr Darcy there…
Head to Bath Abbey, which dates back to as early as 675 AD. This impeccable building has been adapted over the centuries and is a sight to behold. The 221 steps to the top are challenging but well worth the effort. From the top, you’ll be able to gaze out across Bath and the surrounding hillsides. We recommend taking the Tower Tour, which takes around an hour.
Staying at: Boyd Valley Lake
This picturesque site is located halfway between Bristol and Bath, and describes itself as “perfect for a break from the outside world” — we couldn’t agree more! It’s ideal for fishing, with a beautiful lake for anglers of all abilities. You can also hire bikes on-site to explore more of the local area.
Golden Valley Lane, Bitton, Bristol BS30 6NY, United Kingdom
51.433670, -2.451363
Four days, many miles, and some of the best things to do in the Cotswolds later, we’ve reached the end of our road trip. We hope that you enjoyed this Cotswolds road trip itinerary as much as we did, and we have no doubt you’ll soon be returning to explore more of this beautiful area. It would take several more trips to cover all of the best villages in the Cotswolds properly. In the meantime, you can check out our favourite weekend breaks from London or the best places to see the stars in the UK and Europe.
Looking for the perfect motorhome to set yourself up for cosy nights in the Cotswolds? Look no further. We have vehicles of all shapes and sizes on our platform, whether you’re travelling with your partner, family or pet.
