Day Itinerary
24 Activities
Day 1
193 mi3 mi
Small Places Concealing Great Beauties
Today will be an incessant wandering through small medieval villages and towns, and some very little known ones, in the Cotswolds. You'll go from one village to another and then to another....
You'll be amazed by the ruins of an abbey that was once the 4th largest in Britain. You'll travel back in time having lunch in an ancient pub, crossing picturesque bridges, visiting churches that look like scenes from a Tolkien fairy tale, and there will be no shortage of charming little rivers to fill you with delight.
So, prepare yourself for this rollercoaster full of landscapes, beautiful corners, picturesque places, time lapses... and all watered with a good country beer or a tasteful wine.
You'll be amazed by the ruins of an abbey that was once the 4th largest in Britain. You'll travel back in time having lunch in an ancient pub, crossing picturesque bridges, visiting churches that look like scenes from a Tolkien fairy tale, and there will be no shortage of charming little rivers to fill you with delight.
So, prepare yourself for this rollercoaster full of landscapes, beautiful corners, picturesque places, time lapses... and all watered with a good country beer or a tasteful wine.
23.3 mi
50 min
09:455 min
Denne Road Car Park
The first stop on the route will be in Horsham. There you´ll leave the car in this well-located car park to briefly get to know this town.
It is a small but very charming and full of life town that is worth walking through. The first time history mentioned Horsham was in 947 in relation to the lands of King Edred. Apparently the name of the town derived from the conjunction of the words HORSE and HAM because there was an important market here, where horses were traded.
It is a small but very charming and full of life town that is worth walking through. The first time history mentioned Horsham was in 947 in relation to the lands of King Edred. Apparently the name of the town derived from the conjunction of the words HORSE and HAM because there was an important market here, where horses were traded.
0.3 mi
5 min
10:0015 min
St Mary's Church
This church is the oldest building in the whole area, its beauty and the environment where it is located make it a site worth visiting.
Its first foundations correspond to a Norman church from the 11th century, remains of which can be seen in the tower, the west door and the northwest wall. But the church as we see it today was completed in 1247.
Its location at the end of the road makes it even more picturesque.
The church is open everyday between 10:00 and 13:00 (for visitors and private prayers) and Sundays for services.
Its first foundations correspond to a Norman church from the 11th century, remains of which can be seen in the tower, the west door and the northwest wall. But the church as we see it today was completed in 1247.
Its location at the end of the road makes it even more picturesque.
The church is open everyday between 10:00 and 13:00 (for visitors and private prayers) and Sundays for services.
0.3 mi
10 min
10:3010 min
The Bandstand
Another worthwhile walk is here, in the heart of Horsham, where the town's main events are held. This square is surrounded by pedestrianized streets, quaint cafés and shops of all kinds.
0.2 mi
5 min
10:455 min
Denne Road Car Park
After this brief visit to Horsham, it's time to pick up the car and continue the road!
56.9 mi
1 hr 30 min
12:305 min
Queens Road Car Park
This large car park is the closest to the Reading Abbey ruins.
0.4 mi
10 min
12:4515 min
Reading Abbey Ruins
In 1121, the abbey was commissioned by King Henry I, he wanted to build a huge new abbey in Reading, and so he did, but unfortunately, he wasn't able to see it finished as he died before his abbey was completed. Which is logical because it took almost 200 years! Anyway, by the time it was completed, in the 14th century, this abbey was so large and magnificent that it was the 4th most important church in all of Britain.
Fun fact?! By the time the works on the Lady Chapel were completed, back in 1314, there were already old parts of the abbey that needed to be repaired!
If you want to know more, follow this link.
Fun fact?! By the time the works on the Lady Chapel were completed, back in 1314, there were already old parts of the abbey that needed to be repaired!
If you want to know more, follow this link.
0.4 mi
10 min
13:105 min
Queens Road Car Park
Time to get to the car and go back to the road. There's so much yet to be seen!
66 mi
1 hr 30 min
14:455 min
Car Park
This small village was rated number 2 of the 30 most beautiful villages by The Times.
It is known for its beauty, tranquility and picturesque buildings, including the medieval church. This paradise full of charm will make you feel like you're inside a fantasy tale.
Leave your car at the parking lot and continue exploring the village on foot.
It is known for its beauty, tranquility and picturesque buildings, including the medieval church. This paradise full of charm will make you feel like you're inside a fantasy tale.
Leave your car at the parking lot and continue exploring the village on foot.
0.1 mi
5 min
15:0030 min
The White Hart
This lovely old pub is 500 years old.
If you are looking for good food and beer in a lively atmosphere, in the best medieval style, this is the place for you.
If you want to book a table in advance, click here.
Opening hours Monday - Friday: 12:00 - 14:30, 17:00 - 21:30 Saturday: 12:00 - 21:30 Sunday: 12:00 - 20:00
If you are looking for good food and beer in a lively atmosphere, in the best medieval style, this is the place for you.
If you want to book a table in advance, click here.
Opening hours Monday - Friday: 12:00 - 14:30, 17:00 - 21:30 Saturday: 12:00 - 21:30 Sunday: 12:00 - 20:00
0.1 mi
5 min
15:3515 min
The Castle Inn
If you are looking for a more secluded and quiet place, but just as picturesque and full of charm, you have the option of The Castle Inn just a few meters away. Follow this link to book a table in advance.
At the Castle Inn, you can taste the famous Cream Tea of the Cotswolds.
Opening hours Monday - Saturday: 12:00 - 14:30, 18:00 - 20:30 Sunday: 12:00 - 15:00, 18:00 - 20:30
Please note that the proposed time for both lunch options has been split in two, just to allow for both options, the idea is to have a quick lunch of half an hour or 45 minutes and move on.
At the Castle Inn, you can taste the famous Cream Tea of the Cotswolds.
Opening hours Monday - Saturday: 12:00 - 14:30, 18:00 - 20:30 Sunday: 12:00 - 15:00, 18:00 - 20:30
Please note that the proposed time for both lunch options has been split in two, just to allow for both options, the idea is to have a quick lunch of half an hour or 45 minutes and move on.
0.1 mi
5 min
16:005 min
The Market Cross
This is one of the most important monuments here in Castle Combe: The Market Cross, dating back to the 14th century. It was built when the town was granted with the privilege of holding a weekly market (a price so important to achieve, for small villages, back in those days). Apparently it was used as a place to leave the horses, like a parking lot, very useful on rainy days.
It is an iconic symbol of the town and adds even more charm to its streets.
It is an iconic symbol of the town and adds even more charm to its streets.
0.1 mi
5 min
16:1510 min
Castle Combe - Water Lane
This part of the village, bathed by the waters of Brook creek, is one of the most beautiful and photogenic corners of this place.
From here, returning to the car park, it is a good idea to stop to see the medieval church with its impressive tower which casts a halo of mystery all around it.
From here, returning to the car park, it is a good idea to stop to see the medieval church with its impressive tower which casts a halo of mystery all around it.
0.2 mi
5 min
16:305 min
Car Park
Back to the car to continue jumping from one dreamed village to another, like a fantastic cricket!
13.5 mi
30 min
17:1010 min
The Chippings Car Park
Tetbury, is a beautiful little village, situated on the place where an Anglo-Saxon monastery was once founded back in 681. In the Middle Ages, this town became an important centre for wool and yarn trading in the Cotswolds.
Next to this car park is one of the main attractions of this village, a picturesque, staircase-shaped street: called Chipping steps. It is a street flanked by a row of typical honey-coloured stone houses with beautiful gardens, making it one of the most popular images of the Cotswolds postcards.
Next to this car park is one of the main attractions of this village, a picturesque, staircase-shaped street: called Chipping steps. It is a street flanked by a row of typical honey-coloured stone houses with beautiful gardens, making it one of the most popular images of the Cotswolds postcards.
0.2 mi
5 min
17:3010 min
St Mary the Virgin Church
Going down to this church you will pass by the columns of the Market House, with this description you will easily recognize it. It is a 17th century building that was built specifically for the wool trade.
The amazing church of St. Mary’s The Virgin, dates from the 18th century and its architectural design is one of the most beautiful of Cotswold. Its style is Gothic, highlighting, above all, its tower and imposing cemetery.
Opening Hours: Every day from 9:00 to 17:00 h.
The amazing church of St. Mary’s The Virgin, dates from the 18th century and its architectural design is one of the most beautiful of Cotswold. Its style is Gothic, highlighting, above all, its tower and imposing cemetery.
Opening Hours: Every day from 9:00 to 17:00 h.
0.4 mi
10 min
18:0030 min
The Royal Oak Tetbury
This bar is located in a beautiful area. The building, dating from the late 18th century, has a lovely back garden with tables to enjoy yourself during the good weather and a comfortable ambience indoors as well.
Opening hours: Wednesday - Saturday: 12:00 - 14:30, 17:30 - 20:30 Sunday: 12:00 - 16:00 Monday - Tuesday: closed
Airstream Monday - Friday: 17:00 - 21:00 Saturday: 15:00 - 21:00 Sunday: closed
For more information or reserves, click here.
Opening hours: Wednesday - Saturday: 12:00 - 14:30, 17:30 - 20:30 Sunday: 12:00 - 16:00 Monday - Tuesday: closed
Airstream Monday - Friday: 17:00 - 21:00 Saturday: 15:00 - 21:00 Sunday: closed
For more information or reserves, click here.
0.2 mi
5 min
18:355 min
The Chippings Car Park
Back to the car to keep on exploring new fabulous places in the Cotswolds.
27.2 mi
50 min
19:3010 min
Bourton-on-the-Water
This is one of those towns you get to meet just because it's on the way, but then, it turns up being a great find.
The Windrush River is the protagonist here, shallow, with a rocky bed and crystal-clear water.
The whole route along the river is certainly very picturesque, full of magical corners.
The Windrush River is the protagonist here, shallow, with a rocky bed and crystal-clear water.
The whole route along the river is certainly very picturesque, full of magical corners.
2.1 mi
10 min
20:0010 min
The Parish Church of Saint Mary Lower Slaughter
This small village is pure beauty concentrated in just a few blocks.
It's a good idea to leave your car in the area around the church on Copsehill Rd or in a nearby place, walk towards Becky Hill Road and wander through the small streets in the centre of the village.
It is a very small village and is a quick walk, so take your time to admire the small details of each corner.
It's a good idea to leave your car in the area around the church on Copsehill Rd or in a nearby place, walk towards Becky Hill Road and wander through the small streets in the centre of the village.
It is a very small village and is a quick walk, so take your time to admire the small details of each corner.
1 mi
5 min
20:1510 min
No 8 The Square
Here, in Upper Slaughter, you'll also find a lot of beauty within a few square kilometers.
This particular house is mentioned as a point of interest, not because of the lodge, but for its location, right in the middle of the most picturesque place in the village. And again here it is recommended to leave the car parked beside the road or in a free parking space and walk around a little bit with your camera ready for some great pictures.
This particular house is mentioned as a point of interest, not because of the lodge, but for its location, right in the middle of the most picturesque place in the village. And again here it is recommended to leave the car parked beside the road or in a free parking space and walk around a little bit with your camera ready for some great pictures.
3.5 mi
15 min
20:405 min
Car Park
This is a good place to leave the car, due to its location right next to St. Edward's Church and next to the hotel where you are suggested to spend the night.
As you'll probably be reaching this point by night, you won't be able to appreciate the church surroundings, but don't worry, tomorrow morning you'll see it in all its splendor.
As you'll probably be reaching this point by night, you won't be able to appreciate the church surroundings, but don't worry, tomorrow morning you'll see it in all its splendor.
0.2 mi
5 min
21:001 hr 30 min
The Porch House
Yes, it’s already night, it’s cold... None of that will stop you!!
Tonight you'll be having dinner at the oldest inn in all of England. For 11 centuries, this establishment has received and given shelter, food and drink to travelers from all over. Surely, they know how to do it beautifully to have lasted so long in the business...
If you wanted to, you could park next to the pub, but parking has been proposed next to the hotel for two reasons: first, so that you can have a drink, if you wish, without having to worry about getting back in the car, and second, so that you can see the little village lit up at night, which also has its own charm. Besides, the pub is very close to the car park anyway.
It's better to book a table in advance.
Opening hours: Monday - Wednesday: 12:00 – 22:30 Thursday – Saturday: 12:00 – 23:00 Sunday: 12:00 – 21:00
Tonight you'll be having dinner at the oldest inn in all of England. For 11 centuries, this establishment has received and given shelter, food and drink to travelers from all over. Surely, they know how to do it beautifully to have lasted so long in the business...
If you wanted to, you could park next to the pub, but parking has been proposed next to the hotel for two reasons: first, so that you can have a drink, if you wish, without having to worry about getting back in the car, and second, so that you can see the little village lit up at night, which also has its own charm. Besides, the pub is very close to the car park anyway.
It's better to book a table in advance.
Opening hours: Monday - Wednesday: 12:00 – 22:30 Thursday – Saturday: 12:00 – 23:00 Sunday: 12:00 – 21:00
0.2 mi
5 min
22:4510 hrs
The Old Stocks Inn
It is a 17th century building with all the comforts of the present, excellent service and an unbeatable location and views.
Check-in is from 15:00 h. and check-out until 11:00 h.
Don't forget to book your room in advance.
Check-in is from 15:00 h. and check-out until 11:00 h.
Don't forget to book your room in advance.