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There’s something truly special about exploring the English countryside on foot, especially when it’s in the picture-perfect region of the Cotswolds. Recently, my mom and I decided to take on one of the area’s most delightful walks – the easy loop from Bourton-on-the-Water to the village of Lower Slaughter.

Being an avid reader of cheap English romance literature, my mom had always pestered me about visiting the Cotswolds. To her, this part of England is the true backdrop of her favourite love stories. Apparently, this area of England is dotted with beautiful villas of the the Regency era. Although the architecture is largely rooted in medieval and Tudor traditions, the Regency period also left its mark. The early 19th century brought a taste for neo-classical elegance and proportion, which can still be seen in the symmetry of Georgian townhouses in Cheltenham, often called the “Regency Capital.” Cheltenham—or even nearby Gloucester—makes an excellent base for exploring the smaller villages scattered across the Cotswolds.

Bourton-on-the-Water, where we began our walk, is often called the “Venice of the Cotswolds.” No one would confuse its little stone bridges over the shallow River Windrush with those of St. Mark’s Square, of course. But when life gives you lemons, you make lemonade, and that’s what these Englishmen did. The Prince Regent (later King George IV), saw a surge in wealth among the landed gentry and prosperous wool merchants. They invested heavily in their estates and the villages within them. Its villages are built almost entirely from the warm golden limestone that gives the area its distinctive character. The village centre is famously busy with visitors, especially during weekends and holidays, but we quickly discovered that the majority of them do not detour from the high street. You’ll find equally picturesque streets with far fewer people around the corner alleys, allowing you to appreciate the stunning architecture at a more peaceful pace.

The trail to Lower Slaughter is straightforward, well-marked, and impossible to miss. Lower Slaughter itself is smaller and less crowded than Bourton, but just as picturesque. Its riverside mill at the banks of River Eye, traditional cottages, and peaceful setting make it worth a visit. The name “Slaughter” comes from the Old English word “slough,” meaning “muddy place,” but there’s nothing remotely unpleasant about this idyllic village. Unlike Bourton, Lower Slaughter feels more tranquil and preserved.

If you’re looking for a family-friendly walk that embraces quintessential English charm, this might just be the perfect trail for you. Despite being an easy walk, it offers some of the best sights the Cotswolds is known for, so you get the feeling of a full countryside experience without the effort of a strenuous hike. If you’re planning a visit, I recommend starting early in the day to enjoy quieter paths, especially in Bourton. Comfortable shoes are all you need, and since the route is easy and short, it’s a perfect choice for a relaxed morning or afternoon. Of course, since most villages in the area are connected by footpaths, you could easily do a longer loop, hopping from one village to the next.

If you have more time in the region, Stratford-upon-Avon makes for an easy and rewarding excursion. It is best known as the birthplace of William Shakespeare. Beyond the Shakespearean landmarks—the Royal Shakespeare Theatre, Anne Hathaway’s Cottage, and his birthplace—you’ll find a lively market town atmosphere with independent shops, cafés. If you are like me, an ignorant of classic literature, Anne Hathaway refers to Shakespeare’s wife, not the American actress. Being easy to please, as always, my most memorable experience from Stratford-upon-Avon is probably the toffee fudge at Roly’s Fudge Pantry.

Another excellent day trip from the Cotswolds is Oxford. Its colleges and quadrangles represent some of the finest examples of Gothic and neoclassical architecture in England, and simply strolling through the cobbled streets makes you feel (not be) wiser.

Here you’ll find the almost 10km trail from Bourton on Water to the Slaughters. You can read more hiking posts under the tag hiking. If you liked this article, share it with your friends. You can also follow this blog, and follow me on Instagram or Facebook, to never miss a post. Until next time!