Pub Walks in the Cotswolds

A countryside walk followed by a cosy pub stop is one of life’s simple pleasures. With rolling hills, pretty villages, and centuries-old inns, the Cotswolds is the perfect setting for just that.

At Manor Cottages, we’ve rounded up our favourite pub walks in the Cotswolds which combine scenic routes with memorable food, drink, and hospitality.

Broadway: The Lygon Arms

Best for: history, Sunday roasts, autumn colours

Start in the charming village of Broadway and head up to Broadway Tower for sweeping views across the Cotswolds. The circular walk is about four miles and buggy-friendly on the gentler paths.

Your reward? A meal at The Lygon Arms, a 16th-century coaching inn. Expect hearty Sunday roasts, a large garden for summer, and a crackling fire in winter. Dogs are welcome both indoors and outside. Parking is available in Broadway, and the village has regular bus services.

Bourton-on-the-Water: The Kingsbridge Inn

Best for: families, riverside seating, summer days

This short walk meanders along the River Windrush and around the chocolate-box village of Bourton-on-the-Water. It’s flat, making it ideal for families and buggies.

The Kingsbridge Inn sits right on the river with a beer garden that’s perfect for summer evenings. With a wide food menu and dog-friendly policy, it’s a great stop whether you’re popping in for a quick pint or a full meal. Public parking is available in Bourton.

Ebrington: The Ebrington Arms

Best for: cosy fireplaces, dog-friendly rambles, spring wildflowers

A longer circular walk from Chipping Campden takes you across rolling fields and into the quiet village of Ebrington. At the centre sits The Ebrington Arms, voted one of the best village pubs in the UK.

Known for its local ales and excellent seasonal menus, it’s particularly cosy in colder months with open fires. The walk is moderately challenging and not ideal for pushchairs, but dogs are very welcome both on the route and in the pub.

Burford: The Angel at Burford

Best for: market town charm, seasonal menus, winter evenings

Burford, often called the “gateway to the Cotswolds,” offers a variety of walks along the Windrush Valley. After exploring, stop at The Angel at Burford, a 16th-century inn with hearty seasonal dishes and a welcoming atmosphere.

There’s limited parking nearby, and the pub is dog-friendly. A log fire makes it a perfect winter pub stop.

Practical Tips

• Maps & Routes: Many routes are available on OS Maps, AllTrails, or the National Trust.
• Parking: Larger villages like Broadway and Bourton offer public car parks. Smaller villages may require on-street parking.
• Public Transport: Train stations at Moreton-in-Marsh and Kingham connect to local bus routes.
• Dog & Family Suitability: Most of these walks and pubs are dog-friendly. Flat routes like Bourton are better for families with pushchairs.

Seasonal Tips

• Spring: Wildflower-filled meadows, quieter pubs, and longer daylight hours.
• Summer: Choose pubs with large gardens, like The Kingsbridge Inn.
• Autumn: Woodland walks paired with Sunday roasts at The Lygon Arms.
• Winter: Shorter routes that finish at pubs with log fires, like The Angel at Burford.

Stay in the Cotswolds with Manor Cottages

After a busy day of walking exploring and pub hopping, rest your head at a place nearby. View properties to stay in the Cotswolds here.

FAQs

Which is the most popular pub walk in the Cotswolds?

One of the most popular is the Broadway Tower circular walk, finishing at The Lygon Arms in Broadway. It combines sweeping Cotswold views, a gentle climb, and a historic pub that’s been welcoming walkers for centuries. Another favourite is the Bourton-on-the-Water riverside walk, especially for families looking for a shorter, flatter route with a dog-friendly pub at the end.

How long do Cotswolds pub walks take?
Walk times vary depending on the route. Shorter, family-friendly options in Bourton-on-the-Water can be done in an hour or so, while circular walks around villages like Chipping Campden or Ebrington often take 2–3 hours. For a more leisurely day out, longer routes such as those around Burford can take up to half a day, including a relaxed pub stop.

Where is the best pub food in the Cotswolds?
Food lovers often rate The Ebrington Arms highly for its seasonal menus and locally brewed ales. For a traditional Sunday roast in a historic setting, The Lygon Arms in Broadway is a classic choice. If you’re after riverside dining in summer, The Kingsbridge Inn in Bourton-on-the-Water is a great bet. Each pub brings something unique — whether it’s hearty comfort food, fine dining touches, or family-friendly menus.

Why Choose Pub Walks in the Cotswolds

Combining countryside walking routes with traditional pubs means you enjoy the best of both worlds: fresh air, history, and hearty meals. These pub walks in the Cotswolds showcase why this region is one of England’s finest places for rambling and relaxing.