Escape to the Cotswolds

We’d heard so many people rave about the Cotswolds that we finally pointed the VW that way for a long weekend. Rolling hills, honey‑stone cottages and tiny lanes made for one of the most relaxed trips we’ve done so far.

This is how our route unfolded, plus the places we think are worth a stop if you’re planning your own Cotswolds adventure.

Day 1 – Broadway & Broadway Tower

We rolled into the Cotswolds via Broadway, one of those villages that looks like a film set.

Highlights:

• A slow wander along the high street, dipping in and out of independent shops and cafés.

• Parking just outside the centre and walking in (much easier with a campervan).

• Grabbing a late lunch in a cosy pub and watching classic cars cruise past.

In the afternoon we drove up to Broadway Tower. The road winds gently uphill and then suddenly opens out to big views.

Why it’s worth it:

• Short, easy walk from the car park to the tower.

• On a clear day you can see for miles across the countryside.

• Perfect spot for sunset photos with the van in the background.

Day 2 – Bourton‑on‑the‑Water & Lower Slaughter

We started early and headed to Bourton‑on‑the‑Water, known as the “Venice of the Cotswolds”.

What we did:

• Walked along the shallow river that runs through the village.

• Sat on the grass with coffee and just people‑watched.

• Crossed the little stone bridges and explored the side streets away from the crowds.

From there we took the back roads to Lower Slaughter, a much quieter, postcard‑perfect village.

Lower Slaughter highlights:

• Strolling along the river past the old mill.

• Taking photos of the stone cottages reflected in the water.

• Enjoying the peace after busy Bourton.

The drive between the two is short but beautiful – classic Cotswold scenery with rolling fields and dry‑stone walls.

Day 3 – Stow‑on‑the‑Wold & Bibury

On our last full day we headed up to Stow‑on‑the‑Wold, a hilltop market town with a slightly different feel.

What we loved:

• The market square, lined with antique shops and tea rooms.

• Finding the famous church door framed by old trees – it really does look like something from a fantasy film.

• Stocking up on local goodies for the van (cheese, bread, chutneys).

Later we drove over to Bibury, home of the famous Arlington Row cottages.

Tips for Bibury:

• Arrive earlier or later in the day if you can – it gets busy.

• Walk along the river and take your time around Arlington Row.

• Step away from the main viewpoint and explore the quieter paths.

Where We Think You Should Visit in the Cotswolds

If you’re planning your own VW trip, here are the spots we’d put on your list:

• Broadway – classic Cotswold village, great base and lovely high street.

• Broadway Tower – short walk, huge views, ideal for sunset.

• Bourton‑on‑the‑Water – riverside walks, bridges and plenty of cafés.

• Lower Slaughter – peaceful, pretty and perfect for slow wandering.

• Stow‑on‑the‑Wold – market town vibes, good for lunch and a bit of shopping.

• Bibury (Arlington Row) – iconic Cotswold postcard scene.

Campervan Notes

• Roads: Expect narrow lanes and the odd tractor – nothing too scary, just take it slow.

• Parking: Village car parks can be tight and sometimes have height barriers, so check ahead and be ready to park slightly out of the centre and walk in.

• Pace: The Cotswolds rewards slow travel. Short drives, long walks and plenty of time to just sit and soak it all in.