where are the cotswolds in england
The Cotswolds are a picturesque range of hills located in southwestern and west-central England. This renowned Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) spans approximately 800 square miles, stretching about 90 miles long and 25 miles across at its widest.
Exact Location
Primarily within Gloucestershire and Oxfordshire , the Cotswolds also extend into parts of Wiltshire , Somerset , Worcestershire , and Warwickshire —touching six counties in total.
It's positioned northwest of London , making it an easy escape from the capital (often just 1.5–2 hours by car or train).
The region lies east of the River Severn, featuring rolling green hills, honey-colored stone villages, and farmland that covers about 80% of the area.
Why It's Special
- Designated AONB since 1966, celebrated for its unspoiled landscapes and charming market towns like Bourton-on-the-Water and Stow-on-the-Wold.
- Iconic features : Undulating hills divided by ancient stone walls, perfect for hiking trails and scenic drives.
- Ideal for visitors seeking rural tranquility, with easy access from major cities—think day trips from Birmingham or Bristol too.
Quick Travel Tips
- By car : M40 or M4 motorways lead right to key spots; parking is ample in villages.
- By train : Stations like Moreton-in-Marsh or Kemble connect via Paddington (London).
- Best time : Spring (bluebells) or autumn (foliage); as of February 2026, it's cozy for cozy pub stays amid crisp winter walks.
"The Cotswolds’ location just north-west of London means it’s situated within reachable distance from the capital city and several other populous regions."
TL;DR : Cotswolds = Southwest-central England hills across Gloucestershire/Oxfordshire (plus bits of 4 others), ~2hrs from London.
Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.