Breathtaking Drives: Scenic Drives in the Cotswolds

Exploring the Cotswolds by car is one of the most rewarding ways to discover this beautiful region. From gentle rolling hills to historic market towns, every turn reveals another postcard-perfect view.

Touring the Cotswolds by Car gives you the freedom to set your own pace, tuck into quaint village cafés and enjoy scenic routes that wind through some of England’s most charming landscapes. Whether you’re planning a weekend break or a longer countryside escape, these thoughtfully chosen drives offer memorable moments and plenty of inviting places to stop along the way.

Below, you will find a collection of the best driving routes the Cotswolds has to offer. Each journey blends far-reaching scenery with interesting stop-offs that showcase the heart and heritage of this much-loved area.

The Best Cotswolds Drives for Exploring the Region

The Slad Valley Loop

The Slad Valley is one of the most peaceful corners of the Cotswolds, with winding lanes that run from Stroud to Slad and on to Painswick. Wooded slopes, meadows and stone cottages create a quintessentially English scene, and the whole area is strongly associated with author Laurie Lee. This shorter route rewards drivers who enjoy a slower pace and plenty of viewpoints to pause and admire.

Highlights include:

• The pretty village of Slad and its traditional country pub
• Open views across the valley
• The elegant and historic village of Painswick

This is an ideal route for quiet mornings or relaxed afternoons, offering a sense of calm that makes it especially memorable.

 Broadway to Snowshill Circuit

Beginning in the charming village of Broadway, this route climbs up to the famous Broadway Tower before sweeping through beautiful countryside towards Snowshill. The hills are steep in places and the scenery is wide and dramatic, making this drive particularly popular with photography enthusiasts.

Must-see stops:

• Broadway Tower with its panoramic views
• Snowshill Manor and its intriguing collections
• Broadway village for tea rooms and independent shops

This route is often a favourite for travellers who are Touring the Cotswolds by Car for the first time thanks to its combination of dramatic scenery and easy stop-off points.

Burford to Bibury

This classic drive perfectly captures the charm of the Cotswolds. Beginning in Burford, follow the road towards the River Coln and the picturesque village of Bibury, home to the famous Arlington Row. The route passes through tranquil countryside with plenty of inviting detours.

Perfect for:

• Strolling through historic high streets
• Discovering river walks
• Admiring iconic Cotswold stone architecture

Burford and Bibury both offer excellent cafés, shops and photography opportunities, making this a beautifully balanced day out.

Stow-on-the-Wold to Bourton-on-the-Water

This gentle drive links two popular Cotswold destinations. Begin in Stow-on-the-Wold with its charming shops and historic square, then follow the road down to Bourton-on-the-Water with its low stone bridges and riverside green.

Best enjoyed by:

• Families visiting local attractions
• Guests who enjoy riverside cafés
• Visitors who like exploring on foot between stops

This is an ideal route if you prefer a shorter drive with plenty to see at both ends.

Cirencester to Tetbury

This peaceful countryside route follows soft, open landscapes from Cirencester to Tetbury, two towns known for their history and character. You will pass woodland edges, long country views and quiet stretches that feel wonderfully relaxing.

Don’t miss:

• Westonbirt Arboretum
• Tetbury’s antique shops and boutiques
• Cirencester’s Roman heritage and independent stores

This is perfect for travellers looking for a laid-back scenic drive with places to stop for lunch or a gentle wander.

Cleeve Hill Panorama Route

Starting near Cheltenham, this route climbs towards Cleeve Hill, which holds the title of the highest point in the Cotswolds. On a clear day the views sweep across the Severn Valley and into Wales. Continue down towards Winchcombe, a lovely market town with plenty of character.

Highlights:

• Elevated countryside views
• Belas Knap long barrow
• Winchcombe’s traditional pubs and historic streets

This is an excellent choice for those who love far-reaching landscapes and easy access to walking trails.

Wotton-under-Edge to Nailsworth

This scenic drive in the Cotswolds winds through wooded slopes, meadows and peaceful valleys between Wotton-under-Edge and Nailsworth. It offers a slightly quieter side of the Cotswolds, making it ideal for travellers who enjoy discovering areas that feel a little more tucked away.

Worth stopping for:

• Cotswold Way walking paths
• Artisan bakeries and delis in Nailsworth
• The tranquil setting around Ruskin Mill

With its mix of scenery and local food spots, this drive is a wonderful way to explore the region at a slower pace.

Northleach to Winson and Coln St Aldwyns

This gentle countryside scenic drive follows the picturesque Coln Valley, taking you through some of the area’s most peaceful and attractive villages. It is a lovely choice for those who enjoy relaxed routes with plenty of natural beauty.

Highlights include:

• Northleach’s historic market square
• The villages of Winson, Ablington and Coln St Aldwyns
• Riverside meadows and quiet walking routes

It is an ideal option when Touring the Cotswolds by Car if you want calm surroundings and idyllic views around every bend.

Planning Your Cotswold Driving Adventure

Whichever route you choose, Touring the Cotswolds by Car offers an unforgettable way to explore this charming region. With traditional pubs, independent shops, river walks and timeless villages dotted throughout the landscape, each drive becomes a delightful blend of scenery and discovery.

Whether you are visiting for a short break or settling into one of our cosy cottages for a longer escape, the Cotswolds provides endless opportunities for scenic journeys, spontaneous stop-offs and moments that capture the very best of rural England.

Manor Cottages are the Cotswolds leading holiday cottage specialists, providing expert knowledge from our local Bourton-on-the-Water office.

To discover a holiday cottage for your next Cotswolds adventure, you can browse our secure, user-friendly website, or alternatively call our friendly customer services team today.