The Most Beautiful Cycling Routes in the Cotswolds

Starting at Kemble train station, this easy bike ride takes you through the sleepy Cotswold villages of Ewen, Somerford Keynes, Shorncote – believed to be the smallest village in Gloucestershire – and Siddington. You’ll also cycle into the Cotswold Water Park, which makes the perfect place to stop for a picnic, swim or even windsurf if you’re feeling up to it! As the name suggests, this route takes you close to the source of the River Thames, as well as some cracking pubs including the charming Wild Duck, at Ewen.

Heading out from Burford, along the Windrush Valley, this 33-mile ride is a great way to explore the East Cotswolds. The route winds its way through picturesque hamlets and along quiet country roads, and offers some great attractions on route that might just tempt you off your bike – in particular Minster Lovell Hall ruins, which makes a great picnic spot.

Even if it’s your first visit to the Cotswolds, chances are you’ve heard the stories about how ridiculously beautiful the twin villages of Upper and Lower Slaughter are. This route offers the perfect opportunity to see exactly what all the fuss is about! Winding through the scenic village of Bourton-on-the-Water, through The Slaughters and beyond, this one-mile ride showcases some of the prettiest villages in the Cotswolds.

If you’re just passing through, this short three-hour ride can easily be fitted into a weekend break. Hire bikes from the starting point of Bibury Trout Farm, then follow the route through the scenic villages of Chedworth and Coln St Dennis. At the latter, make sure you stop for a break at St John the Great church. The views from this Norman church, across the water meadows and towards the River Coln, are truly idyllic and one of the area’s best kept secrets!

This easy nine-mile cycle is a great option for couples who are all about balance; balancing out the effort of the ride with plenty of foodie pit shops that is! The route takes you out of Kingham, through the villages of Bledington, Upper and Lower Oddington and Adlestrop, and past some of the best pubs the area has to offer. The King’s Head in Bledington, set on a tranquil village green, is definitely worth stopping for – even if it’s just for the quintessentially English, country village scenery.

Wichcombe, the start and end point for your ride, is the kind of unspoilt, honey-hued market town you hope to discover when exploring the Cotswolds. If you’re in the area visiting Sudeley Castle, do try and get out to see more of the area on your bike. The route passes through beautiful, sleepy villages, home to ancient churches and grand manor houses, which would otherwise lay undiscovered to the typical day-tripper. Reward yourself after the 28-mile cycle, with a drink at the welcoming Lion Inn.

Did you know – Culture Trip now does bookable, small-group trips? Pick from authentic, immersive Epic Trips, compact and action-packed Mini Trips and sparkling, expansive Sailing Trips.