From: Hungary
I have had the chance to live in London for what has been a fantastic year. Visiting Cotswolds has been on my bucket-list for quite a long time. After a couple of day-long trips in some nice hamlets in the area and visiting some awesome sights like Blenheim, I decided to walk around just for a long-weekend between Cheltenham and Chipping Camden.
It was my first long-distance walk for more than 15 years, and I was reminded quite early on why you shouldn’t bring unnecessary stuff with you. The first 2 miles up to Dowdeswell Wood was the most challenging of the entire trail. Then, however, Stanton, Snowshill, Hayles, Sudeley Castle, Chipping Camden (incl. Hidcote Manor) and some other sights madeit all worthwhile, and I decided to continue and finish the trail in the weekends to follow (with lighter pack, of course).
I found the mid- and southern trail less challenging and the views, woodlands and historical sights nearby even more enjoyable. I really suggest that the walkers should invest some time in visiting Painswick Rococo Garden, Newark Park, Dyrham Park and the others – these sites are not far from the trail, and all inspired me to walk further no matter the weather conditions/pain in my legs.
I really appreciate the work done by all teams/volunteers maintaining this trail, I had very good experience throughout the whole 100 miles. The best outcome is that the Cotswold Way has convinced and inspired me to come on more walks in the UK no matter where I would live in the future.