As an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, we are spoilt with the Cotswolds on our doorstep. Spanning many counties and reaching from Bath to Oxford, it has a variety of landscapes, suitable for everyone, from hour-long strolls to more adventurous hikes. As the season change, continue to step out in nature with these stunning National Trust walks in the Cotswolds. Discover the best scenic UK walks and locations, along with outfit tips to ensure your taking on the outdoors comfortably.

Best Walks

Prior Park Walk, Bath

Be spoiled with majestic views of Bath, the Palladian Bridge, and a rare ice house on this gentle half-hour walk, which is a wonderful tonic in any season. The Palladian Bridge is one of only four of its kind in the world, and the ice house has a fascinating history—it was used to store ice for the Georgian gentry and later became a secret WWII resistance hideout. Afterwards, visit Bath for a cup of tea and a Bath Bun at Sally Lunn's, one of the city's oldest and most renowned houses. View more details here >

Haresfield Beacon, Stonehouse

Fancy a longer ramble? This picturesque four-hour walk takes you through rolling farmland and enchanting bluebell woods. You’ll also pass ancient barrows—Bronze Age burial mounds that are a remarkable link to the past. The trail is a wonderful way to stretch your legs before you finish with a well-deserved pub lunch at the historic Beacon Inn, named for the warning fires once lit on a nearby hill.  View more details here >

Rodborough Common, Stroud

Enjoy a gentle stroll over Rodborough Common in Stroud, taking in spectacular views of the River Severn and the dramatic Iron Age hill fort. The common is a protected site, and a unique part of the experience is seeing the cows that have the ancient right to roam freely across the land. This easy walk is a perfect way to work up an appetite for a well-deserved treat: a scoop of delicious Winstone's Ice Cream, a family-run business that has been a local favourite for over 90 years. View more details here >

Lodge Park Bridgman walk, Aldsworth

Featured on BBC's Springwatch, the National Trust's Sherborne Park Estate is a haven for wildlife and history. Explore the grounds of Lodge Park, a stunning 17th-century grandstand built for the brutal but popular sport of deer coursing. Wander past Stone Age barrows and other ancient monuments, and see for yourself why this magnificent landscape is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. This estate is a shining example of conservation and is home to a diverse array of animals, from fallow deer to badgers, which you can spot as you meander along the extensive paths. View more details here >

Woodchester Park Boathouse Walk, Stonehouse

 

Step into a world of hidden surprises on this hour-and-a-half walk through Woodchester Park. Follow the tranquil paths past a beautiful boathouse and the atmospheric ruins of an old manor before you arrive at the magnificent Woodchester Mansion. This grand Gothic building is famous for being a masterpiece that was mysteriously abandoned mid-construction, leaving it frozen in time. The unfinished rooms and vast cellars now provide a perfect roost for five different species of bat, including the protected horseshoe bat. This is a rare chance to explore a unique, living ruin that is both a historical curiosity and a vital ecological habitat. View more details here >  

Newark Park, Wotton-under-Edge

Discover a hidden gem on this walk through the grounds of the National Trust's Newark Park. The trail takes you from the tranquil lake and shady woodland out to spectacular, panoramic views of the Ozleworth Valley. You'll also get a magnificent perspective on the house itself, a grand Tudor hunting lodge that dates back to the 16th century. This walk is a perfect outing for bird lovers, with a wide variety of species to spot, and is a great option for a dog walk, with plenty of open space to explore. View more details here >

 

Ebworth Centre Cotswolds walk, Cranham Common

This stunning circular walk from the Ebworth Centre is a journey through the very best of the Cotswolds. As the National Trust says, it's a chance to explore all the features that make the region so special, from exhilarating views and magnificent beech woodlands to beautiful limestone grassland. The trail links two of the region's most enchanting villages. You will pass through Sheepscombe, a peaceful and secluded valley gem, before arriving at the historic wool town of Painswick, famous for its stunning church and 99 ancient yew trees. This route truly offers a complete Cotswold experience. View more details here >  

The Shenington Round from Upton House, Banbury

Lace up your boots for The Shenington Round, a rewarding six-mile walk through the beautiful Warwickshire countryside. The circular route leads you from Upton House and through the quiet village of Shenington, with rolling hills and spectacular views all the way. Why not make a weekend of it and explore Upton House the following day? This 17th-century country mansion is home to one of the National Trust's most impressive art collections, featuring works by renowned Old Masters. You can also explore its beautiful gardens and learn about its fascinating history as a WWII headquarters for the Polish Army. View more information here >

 

What to Wear

In Britain, a walking culture has long been defined by the principle of embracing the outdoors, come rain or shine. This guide to dressing for your walk—from durable footwear to layered clothing—showcases how these essential items form the basis of classic walking outfits, which echo the timeless, practical aesthetic we call National Trust style!

When planning a walk, practicality is key. Opt for comfortable footwear, such as walking boots or durable trainers. This will ensure that longer durations on foot are spent taking in the views and admiring the nature around you instead of focusing on how uncomfortable your feet feel.

As we know, the English weather can be changeable, so layers and weatherproof clothing are a must. When walking in spring and summer, choose cotton. Its breathable, moisture-wicking fibres will help keep you cool. Alternatively, when exploring the Cotswolds in autumn and winter, choose a light jacket, such as a raincoat and quilted coat, along with a wool jumper to keep you both dry and warm.

Accessories are also important for walking! Discover our practical bags to ensure your belongings are kept safe and secure while on the go. Additionally, our array of cold-weather accessories—from hats and gloves to a cosy scarf—are the perfect pieces for layering up this season.

No matter the season, we would also recommend a pair of walking trousers. Our latest range features a variety of relaxed trousers that are a comfortable choice, but we also recommend investing in a pair of waterproof trousers if you’re taking on a showery stroll.

 

Discover a National Trust walk near you > Do you have any recommendations for walks? Let us know by leaving a comment using the box below. For more interesting updates and special offers, sign up for our email newsletters here >