Woodland Walks in the Cotswolds

Find our list below for the very best Cotswold autumnal displays and winter wanderings to warm your soul.

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It’s that time of year again when the end of autumn straddles the beginning of winter. Where mother nature gives us her final fiery autumnal blaze and we anticipate the colder and darker days ahead. It really is my favourite season and a wonderful time to explore some of the glorious woodland that the Cotswolds has to offer.

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Batsford Arboretum

Where better to drink in the seasonal delights than a garden devoted to trees. Batsford Arboretum near Moreton-in-Marsh doesn’t disappoint; with a spectacular range of trees, beautiful views and a spacious wood clad cafe it’s well worth a visit. I particularly love the spectacular colours of the many Japanese Maple trees.  

http://www.batsarb.co.uk/

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Westonbirt The National Arboretum

Marvellous Westonbirt The National Arboretum sits near Tetbury and is a 600-acre arboretum with over a staggering 2,500 species of trees. At Westonbirt you can’t fail to get lost in the glory of Autumn. Pre-booking is essential at this time of year.

Dogs are welcome.

‍https://www.exploregloucestershire.co.uk/Westonbirt-Arboretum/

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Woodchester Park- National Trust

With an unfinished Victorian Gothic mansion, five lakes, stunning views and an abundance of woodland and wildlife, Woodchester is mysterious and very beautiful. It’s situated near Nailsworth in Gloucestershire and you can take a whole day exploring all the nooks and crannies of the estate.

Dogs are welcome.

‍https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/gloucestershire-cotswolds/woodchester-park

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Wychwood Forest – Charlbury 

Wychwood Forest is a protected nature reserve near Charlbury with acres of glorious woodland and a rich and fascinating history. There’s also an abundance of lakes, ponds and streams brimming with wildlife. If you’re feeling fit, you can take it all in via the 37-mile Wychwood Way or you can opt for a more leisurely pace and ramble through the reserve letting nature lead you on. 

Dogs welcome.

‍https://www.wychwoodforesttrust.co.uk/about-the-wychwood

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Lineover Wood – Dowdeswell, near Cheltenham

Lineover Woods is a 123-acre wood, south-east of Cheltenham with the Cotswold Way passing through. It lies on an escarpment formed by Wistley Hill giving really spectacular views – definitely pack the binoculars. There’s ancient woodland and a diverse habitat with an array wildlife for you to spot. With areas of open common land it makes for a lovely day out for all the family.

Dogs are welcome.

‍https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/visiting-woods/woods/lineover-wood/?gclid=CjwKCAjwvfmoBhAwEiwAG2tqzCAWYPfh7gAH_qXpckjesPvGbaafQJI9WHe1FSCZi0v4RlE5GHpu5RoClZkQAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds

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Laurie Lee Wood – Elcombe, Slad Valley 

The Slad Valley is a picturesque area made famous by the memoir ‘Cider with Rosie’ by local author Laurie Lee. You’ll find references from the novel and to the author all over the villages of Elcombe and Slad. Laurie Lee Wood is a nature reserve and was once owned by Laurie Lee’s family. It sits on the edge of the village of Elcombe and covers nearly eight acres. It’s rich with wildlife and you can find a deluge of rare trees and plants in a tranquil and striking setting – it’s a special place. You could combine it with a visit to nearby Slad and immerse yourself in all things Laurie Lee. I’d definitely recommend reading the book first if you can, it’s a great way to add another layer of interest to a really lovely day out.

Dogs welcome on a lead.

‍https://www.gloucestershirewildlifetrust.co.uk/nature-reserves/laurie-lee-wood

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