Which direction to hike The Cotswold Way?

Which direction to hike The Cotswold Way?

North to South or South to North, which direction to hike The Cotswold Way?

Chipping Campden

It is a question we often get asked here at The Cotswold Walking Co. Well, firstly let’s explain where the route starts and finishes. So, depending which way you walk, to start and finish, The Cotswold Way route lies between the town of Chipping Campden in the north and the city of Bath in the south.

All our hiking itineraries run from North to South as this is by far the most common way people walk the route. The most popular guidebooks also describe the route walking south.  That is not to say that you should walk it this way. I have walked The Cotswold Way route from Bath to Chipping Campden as have many of our guests over the years. We can accommodate those who wish to start in Bath by providing a guide that describes the route this way.

Bath view of river

So, whilst there is no right answer, the fact that Chipping Campden is a beautiful Cotswold market town is one reason for this being the most popular starting option. Those that want to immerse themselves in the history, scenery and lifestyle of The Cotswolds can find no better introduction. Bath is also a great place to finish. The historic Abbey and surrounding buildings make it feel like the end of a personal pilgrimage.

Transport often determines which direction people choose to walk. Getting to Chipping Campden if you do not have a car can prove a challenge. The nearest train station is at Moreton in Marsh, 5 miles away and local bus services are usually infrequent. Bath does not have this problem and it’s bus and train stations are centrally located.

Do you have any questions about which direction to hike The Cotswold Way? If so, get in touch with us here [email protected] or fill in our contact form here We are happy to help with your transport arrangements & answer any questions about your Cotswold Way holiday.