Although Autumn is nearly upon us, we should still be in for glorious Autumn days, where the heat of the summer is not quite so intense. For walkers, this is perfect weather. If you are looking for the perfect scenic walking route this Autumn, look no further than the Cotswold Way in Gloucestershire. Visitors to Gloucestershire will be spoilt for choice with places to stay along the trail, and those venturing into Gloucester city itself will be treated to fantastic historical treats, and even vape juice delivered to your door, courtesy of Gloucester vape shop Lazy Juice. Here are just a few of some of the places you can visit along the Cotswold Way.
Snowshill Manor and Gardens – Snowshill manor is a National Trust property in the village of Snowshill. The house dates back to the sixteenth century and is brimming with treasures collected by the once owner of the house, the collector Charles Wade. Charles bought the house in 1919 and set about filling it with his beloved collections. The gardens are also a joy to explore and a visit to Snowshill Manor would not be complete without a stroll around the well-tended gardens.
Painswick Rococo Gardens – Painswick is home to the stunning rococo gardens, the last surviving rococo garden in the country. A trip here will take you back to the 1700s, as the gardens were designed then for Benjamin Hyett and his friends and guests to enjoy lavish parties. Explore the traditional maze and after all of that there is a café where you can enjoy a well-earned cup of tea and a slice of cake!
Hailes Abbey – Another National Trust property, Hailes Abbey can be found near the pretty village of Winchcombe. It was founded in 1246 and closed when the monastery in England was dissolved by Henry V111 in 1539. The abbey is now mainly in ruins but is a beautiful and tranquil place to explore and reflect.
Stroudwater Canal – This is the canal which linked the little town of Stroud to the River Severn. A walk along the pretty towpaths is a treat, and visitors can see many of the canal’s resident creatures, including waterfowl, dragonflies and deer. A visit to the canal visitor centre in Wallbridge, Stroud, is the perfect place to start as you will be able to find out a detailed history of the canal and the routes that it takes.