Day Trips
A Day Trip to the Cotswolds from London
Honey-stone villages, rolling hills and a country pub: how to do the Cotswolds as a day trip from London.
In short: our top picks are Bourton-on-the-Water, Bibury and Stow-on-the-Wold. 5 places in total, chosen on merit, with the full reasoning below.
The Cotswolds are England at its most picture-perfect: honey-stone villages, rolling green hills and country pubs with a fire in the grate. Closer to London than you might think, they make a wonderful day out from the city. This is how to do the Cotswolds in a day, without a car if need be.
| Place | Price |
|---|---|
| Bourton-on-the-Water | |
| Bibury | |
| Stow-on-the-Wold | |
| Daylesford Organic Farm | £££ |
| Broadway Tower |
-
Editor’s choice
Bourton-on-the-Water
Why we pick itThe Venice of the Cotswolds, with low bridges over the river; pretty, popular and easy to reach.
-
Bibury
Why we pick itArlington Row's honey-stone cottages are the most photographed scene in the Cotswolds for good reason.
-
Stow-on-the-Wold
Why we pick itA handsome market town of antique shops and country pubs; a fine base for a day's wandering.
-
Daylesford Organic Farm
Why we pick itA famous farm shop, cafe and spa; a smart, delicious stop for lunch in the heart of the hills.
-
Broadway Tower
Why we pick itA hilltop folly with panoramic views across the Cotswolds.
Before you book
The Cotswolds are easiest by car, but you can reach the main towns by train to Moreton-in-Marsh or Kemble and a taxi. Pick two or three villages rather than chasing them all. And book a country-pub lunch ahead; the good ones fill, especially on a sunny weekend.
Common questions
What are the top picks in this guide?
Bourton-on-the-Water is our editor's choice: The Venice of the Cotswolds, with low bridges over the river; pretty, popular and easy to reach. Bourton-on-the-Water, Bibury and Stow-on-the-Wold lead the guide, with 5 places in total, all chosen on merit.
How does Lamplit London choose its recommendations?
Every place is chosen on merit, after first-hand visits where possible, with no pay-for-placement. Read our full method at https://www.lamplitlondon.com/how-we-choose/.
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