Are you ready for an adventure that combines the charm of the English countryside with the freedom of the open road? Look no further than the Cotswolds, a picturesque region in South Central England, where rolling hills, quaint villages, and historic sites await your exploration. And what better way to experience this enchanting area than by embarking on a road trip in a campervan? In this guide, we’ll take you on a journey through six unforgettable road trips around the Cotswolds, complete with key stops, route details, and camper-friendly places to stay. Buckle up and get ready for the road trip of a lifetime!
Trip 1: The Cotswold Classics
Route Overview:
- Starting Point: Oxford
- Total Distance: Approximately 80 miles
- Duration: 3-4 days
Our first road trip, “The Cotswold Classics,” begins in the historic city of Oxford, famous for its prestigious university and stunning architecture. As you pick up your campervan rental in Oxford, make sure to stock up on supplies and snacks for your journey.
Key Stops:
- Burford: Your first stop is the charming town of Burford, often referred to as the “Gateway to the Cotswolds.” Stroll along the High Street and admire the golden stone cottages, visit the famous Burford Church, and enjoy a traditional cream tea at one of the local tearooms.
- Bourton-on-the-Water: Known as the “Venice of the Cotswolds” due to its picturesque bridges over the River Windrush, Bourton-on-the-Water is a must-visit. Explore the Model Village and the Cotswold Motoring Museum, which is sure to delight automobile enthusiasts.
- Stow-on-the-Wold: Continue your journey to Stow-on-the-Wold, a market town with a rich history. Discover the antique shops, art galleries, and the Market Square, which hosts a lively farmers’ market on the second Thursday of each month.
- Chipping Campden: Your next destination is Chipping Campden, famous for its traditional market town feel and the stunning St. James’ Church. Don’t miss the opportunity to walk along the Cotswold Way, a long-distance footpath offering breathtaking views of the countryside.
- Broadway: End your trip with a visit to Broadway, a village that has attracted artists and writers for centuries. Explore the independent boutiques, art galleries, and enjoy a meal at one of the charming restaurants.
Where to Stay:
- Cotswold Camping: Located in Burford, this campsite provides excellent facilities for campervans, including electric hook-ups and modern amenities. Cotswold Camping Website
- Bourton-on-the-Water Caravan and Motorhome Club Site: This campsite offers a tranquil setting by the river and is within walking distance of the town center. Bourton-on-the-Water Club Site
- Chipping Campden Campsite: Nestled in the heart of Chipping Campden, this campsite provides a convenient base for exploring the surrounding area. Chipping Campden Campsite
Trip 2: Hidden Gems of the Cotswolds
Route Overview:
- Starting Point: Cheltenham
- Total Distance: Approximately 100 miles
- Duration: 4-5 days
For our second road trip, we’ll uncover the “Hidden Gems of the Cotswolds,” taking you off the beaten path to discover lesser-known treasures in the region.
Key Stops:
- Chedworth Roman Villa: Begin your journey with a visit to Chedworth Roman Villa, an ancient archaeological site that offers insight into Roman life in Britain. Explore the well-preserved mosaic floors and the beautiful Cotswold landscape surrounding the villa.
- Sherborne: A picturesque village with a stunning medieval church, Sherborne is a peaceful retreat. Take a leisurely stroll around the village and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere.
- Snowshill: Snowshill is home to the intriguing Snowshill Manor, a National Trust property filled with an eccentric collection of objects collected by Charles Wade. The beautiful gardens are perfect for a relaxing walk.
- Stanway House and Fountain: Visit Stanway House, a Jacobean manor known for its magnificent water fountain, one of the tallest gravity-fed fountains in the world. Explore the gardens and enjoy the breathtaking views.
- Winchcombe: The charming town of Winchcombe is a hidden gem itself. Visit Sudeley Castle, the final resting place of Queen Katherine Parr, and take a walk along the Cotswold Way for panoramic views.
Where to Stay:
- Cirencester Park Caravan and Motorhome Club Site: Located near Chedworth Roman Villa, this campsite offers spacious pitches and easy access to the villa and other attractions. Cirencester Park Club Site
- Broadway Camping and Caravan Club Site: Situated close to Snowshill, this campsite provides a peaceful retreat with modern facilities. Broadway Club Site
- Winchcombe Camping and Caravanning Club Site: This campsite is conveniently located near Winchcombe and provides a great base for exploring the area. Winchcombe Club Site
Trip 3: Cotswolds Culinary Delights
Route Overview:
- Starting Point: Chipping Norton
- Total Distance: Approximately 60 miles
- Duration: 3-4 days
If you’re a foodie, this road trip is for you. “Cotswolds Culinary Delights” will take you to some of the region’s best culinary destinations, where you can savor delicious local dishes.
Key Stops:
- Daylesford Organic Farm: Start your journey at Daylesford Organic Farm, an award-winning organic farmshop and cafe. Explore the farm’s market, enjoy a farm-to-table meal, and pick up some organic goodies.
- The Wild Rabbit, Kingham: Head to Kingham to dine at The Wild Rabbit, a Michelin-starred pub that focuses on sustainability and locally sourced ingredients. Indulge in a gourmet dining experience.
- Bibury Trout Farm: Visit the Bibury Trout Farm, one of the oldest in England, where you can catch your own trout or purchase freshly caught fish to cook in your campervan.
- Stroud Farmers’ Market: Make your way to Stroud, known for its vibrant farmers’ market. Sample artisanal cheeses, baked goods, and other local delights while enjoying the lively atmosphere.
- The King’s Head, Bledington: End your culinary journey with a visit to The King’s Head in Bledington. This traditional Cotswold inn offers hearty British dishes in a cozy setting.
Where to Stay:
- Chipping Norton Camping and Caravanning Club Site: This campsite in Chipping Norton provides easy access to Daylesford Organic Farm and other attractions on this route. Chipping Norton Club Site
- Kingham Hill Farm Camping and Caravanning Club Site: Located near Kingham, this campsite offers a peaceful setting for relaxation after indulging in fine dining. Kingham Hill Farm Club Site
- Bibury Camping and Caravanning Club Site: This campsite is close to Bibury Trout Farm and provides a picturesque place to stay. Bibury Club Site
Trip 4: Literary Cotswolds
Route Overview:
- Starting Point: Stratford-upon-Avon
- Total Distance: Approximately 80 miles
- Duration: 3-4 days
The Cotswolds have inspired numerous writers and poets over the centuries. Follow in their footsteps on the “Literary Cotswolds” road trip.
Key Stops:
- Stratford-upon-Avon: Begin your journey in the birthplace of William Shakespeare. Visit Shakespeare’s Birthplace, Anne Hathaway’s Cottage, and enjoy a play at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre.
- Chipping Norton: Explore the town where J.R.R. Tolkien spent much of his childhood. Visit St. Mary’s Church, believed to have influenced Tolkien’s descriptions of Hobbiton.
- Bampton: This village served as the fictional village of Downton in the TV series “Downton Abbey.” Explore the church and other locations featured in the show.
- Minchinhampton: Discover the inspiration for the novel “Cider with Rosie” by Laurie Lee. The village and its surroundings are beautifully described in Lee’s autobiographical work.
- Winchcombe: Visit Sudeley Castle, where Catherine Parr, the sixth wife of Henry VIII, lived. Her story and the history of the castle are fascinating.
Where to Stay:
- Stratford-upon-Avon Racecourse Touring Park: This campsite is conveniently located near Stratford-upon-Avon and provides a comfortable base for exploring the literary history of the area. Stratford-upon-Avon Racecourse Touring Park
- Chipping Norton Camping and Caravanning Club Site: Stay close to Chipping Norton and immerse yourself in the world of J.R.R. Tolkien. Chipping Norton Club Site
- Bampton Caravan and Motorhome Club Site: Enjoy the Downton Abbey experience by staying near Bampton. Bampton Club Site
Trip 5: Arts and Crafts Trail
Route Overview:
- Starting Point: Gloucester
- Total Distance: Approximately 90 miles
- Duration: 4-5 days
The Cotswolds have a rich heritage in arts and crafts, and this road trip will take you to places associated with the Arts and Crafts Movement.
Key Stops:
- Gloucester Cathedral: Begin your journey in Gloucester with a visit to the stunning Gloucester Cathedral. Marvel at the intricate architecture and the breathtaking stained glass windows.
- Kelmscott Manor: Visit Kelmscott Manor, the former home of William Morris, a leading figure in the Arts and Crafts Movement. Explore the house, gardens, and the nearby village of Kelmscott.
- Sapperton: This village is closely associated with the renowned Arts and Crafts architect, Ernest Gimson. Explore the Gimson-designed buildings and enjoy the scenic walks in the area.
- Stroud: Stroud is known for its artistic community and vibrant arts scene. Visit the Museum in the Park and the Subscription Rooms for a dose of culture.
- Painswick: End your journey in Painswick, known for its beautiful Rococo Garden. Explore the intricately designed garden and enjoy the tranquil surroundings.
Where to Stay:
- Gloucester Camping and Caravanning Club Site: This campsite in Gloucester provides a convenient starting point for your arts and crafts adventure. Gloucester Club Site
- Bibury Camping and Caravanning Club Site: Located near Kelmscott Manor, this campsite offers a peaceful setting for exploring the Arts and Crafts heritage. Bibury Club Site
- Cotswold View Caravan and Camping Park: This campsite in Charlbury is a great base for exploring Sapperton and Stroud. Cotswold View Camping Park
Trip 6: Natural Wonders of the Cotswolds
Route Overview:
- Starting Point: Cirencester
- Total Distance: Approximately 70 miles
- Duration: 3-4 days
Our final road trip, “Natural Wonders of the Cotswolds,” takes you to some of the region’s most breathtaking natural landscapes.
Key Stops:
- Cotswold Water Park: Begin your journey at the Cotswold Water Park, a network of 150 lakes offering a variety of outdoor activities, including water sports, fishing, and hiking.
- Crickley Hill Country Park: Explore Crickley Hill, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, with panoramic views of the Severn Vale. Hike along the trails and enjoy a picnic overlooking the landscape.
- Batsford Arboretum: Visit Batsford Arboretum, home to one of the largest private tree collections in the country. Marvel at the vibrant colors of the trees in autumn or the blossoms in spring.
- Cotswold Lavender: Discover the beauty of Cotswold Lavender, a lavender farm that bursts into purple hues during the summer months. Take a stroll through the fields and enjoy the soothing fragrance.
- Selsley Common: End your trip at Selsley Common, a vast open space with far-reaching views. It’s a perfect spot for stargazing on clear nights.
Where to Stay:
- Cirencester Park Caravan and Motorhome Club Site: This campsite in Cirencester is an excellent starting point for exploring the natural wonders of the Cotswolds. Cirencester Park Club Site
- Gloucester Camping and Caravanning Club Site: Stay at this campsite in Gloucester for easy access to Crickley Hill Country Park and other natural attractions. Gloucester Club Site
- Stratford-upon-Avon Racecourse Touring Park: This campsite is conveniently located for visiting Cotswold Lavender and Selsley Common. Stratford-upon-Avon Racecourse Touring Park
For more details on the COtswolds, go to explore the Cotswolds