One Day North Cotswolds Itinerary

James Long
Mar 3, 2025
4 min read

Updated: 5 days ago

The North Cotswolds is the perfect place for a picturesque day trip, offering rolling countryside, charming villages, and historic landmarks. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveller, this one-day itinerary will take you to some of the most beautiful spots in the region.

For more itineraries and insider knowledge, read our dedicated itineraries page.

Morning: Exploring Iconic Villages

Stop 1: Broadway Tower (8:30 AM - 9:30 AM)

Start your day with breathtaking panoramic views from Broadway Tower, one of the highest points in the Cotswolds. This 18th-century folly provides a stunning vantage point over 16 counties. If you're an early riser, catch the sunrise here for a magical experience.

You can learn more about visiting Broadway Tower by reading our article: Broadway Tower: the Ultimate Guide to Visiting the Cotswolds' Iconic Folly.

Broadway Tower near Broadway in England set against a cloudless sky. — Broadway Tower at sunrise

Stop 2: Broadway (9:30 AM - 10:30 AM)

Head down to the picturesque village of Broadway, often called the "Jewel of the Cotswolds." Stroll along the high street lined with honey-coloured stone buildings, boutique shops, and cosy cafés. Stop by one of the many cafes for a morning coffee and a pastry.

To further explore the attraction of the town read our article Ultimate Guide to Broadway in the Cotswolds.

Broadway stone houses in the Cotswolds on a sunny day. — Broadway houses - just off the high street

Stop 3: Chipping Campden (10:45 AM - 11:30 AM)

A short drive from Broadway, Chipping Campden is famous for its historic Market Hall and stunning Cotswold architecture. Take a quick walk down the high street and admire the 17th-century thatched cottages before moving on. If you want to stay a bit longer, head behind the High Street to see St James’ Church, the ruins of an old stately home, and the Almshouses in Church Street.

To learn more of the attractions of Chipping Campden visit: Chipping Campden: A Practical Local Guide.

Stone buildings in Chipping Campden along the high street. — Chipping Campden high street

Midday: History and Countryside Walks

Stop 4: Hidcote Manor Garden (12:00 PM - 1:00 PM)

One of the most beautiful gardens in England, Hidcote Manor Garden is a must-visit for nature lovers. Wander through its intricately designed outdoor ‘rooms’ filled with colourful plant life. If you’re a fan of gardens, this National Trust property is a highlight of the North Cotswolds.

Hidcote Manor gardens on a sunny summer's day. — Hidcote Manor Gardens - stunning all year round

Stop 5: Lunch in Stow-on-the-Wold (1:30 PM - 2:30 PM)

Drive to Stow-on-the-Wold, a historic market town known for its antique shops and the famous St. Edward’s Church door, the inspiration for the ‘Doors of Durin’ in Tolkien’s ‘The Lord of the Rings’. Enjoy a hearty pub lunch at The Porch House, reputedly England’s oldest inn, or a light bite at The Hive.

You can read more about this wonderful town with our guide Stow on the Wold: A Practical Local Guide.

Outdoor market in Stow-on-the-Wold with colorful tents and baskets in the historic town square. People browse stalls under a lightly clouded sky, framed by old stone buildings. — Market day at Stow-on-the-Wold

Afternoon: Cotswold Charm and Local Flavours

Stop 6: Lower Slaughter & Upper Slaughter (3:00 PM - 3:45 PM)

Take a scenic drive to Lower Slaughter, often considered one of the prettiest villages in the Cotswolds. Walk along the River Eye and visit the Old Mill Museum before continuing to Upper Slaughter, a peaceful village untouched by modern development.

To learn more about visiting the Slaughters read our article: Upper and Lower Slaughter - a Practical Local Guide.

Lower Slaughter on visit to Cotswolds — Lower Slaughter towards the mill

Stop 7: Bourton-on-the-Water (4:00 PM - 5:00 PM)

Finish your day in the "Venice of the Cotswolds." Walk along the charming low bridges spanning the River Windrush and explore attractions like the Cotswold Motoring Museum or the Model Village. If you fancy a cream tea, visit Bakery on the Water.

Plan your perfect visit to Bourton-on-the-Water by reading our article Bourton-on-the-Water: How to Visit Without the Crowds (a local Guide).

View of stone bridges over the river Windrush in the town of Bourton on the Water on a sunny spring day. — Bourton-on-the-Water - the 'Venice of the Cotswolds'

Evening - relax and unwind

Optional Evening Stop: Dinner in Moreton-in-Marsh (5:30 PM - 7:00 PM)

If you’re not ready to leave just yet, head to Moreton-in-Marsh for dinner. The town has several good pubs and restaurants, many set in historic coaching inns, making it a strong place to finish the day with a relaxed Cotswolds meal. Moreton’s long history as a stopping point on the London road gives it a classic market-town feel, and it’s easy to find somewhere welcoming for an early evening drink or dinner before heading home.

To make the most of your time in Moreton-in-Marsh, or see if you want to keep it back for another day, visit our article Moreton-in-Marsh: A Practical Local Guide to the Cotswolds' Rail Gateway.

North Cotswolds itinerary - Final Thoughts

This one-day North Cotswolds itinerary offers the perfect mix of scenic countryside, historic landmarks, and charming villages. Whether you’re exploring on a road trip or with a guided tour, it’s a fantastic way to experience the best of this stunning region in just a day.

If you would like to learn more about how to get around the Cotswolds visit Getting Around.

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