Earlier this July, Foot Trails Co-Founder and Trail Creator David Howell was back in the Cotswolds exploring new routes to add to our walking & hiking trips in the region. What he discovered was beautiful, tranquil paths far from the crowds, and a landscape full of stories, history and fascinating tales:
“The morning was shrouded in heavy skies, a drizzly mist blowing in the breeze and a hazy atmosphere as the summer heat radiated from the land. Moody and atmospheric as I laced my boots before setting out to adventure on new paths, seeking out stories and hidden gems in The Cotswolds.
Ancient trackways and greenways lead me through this hidden valley, a myriad of old single track lanes connecting the villages but adding to the sense of being deeply rural and away from the busyness of the modern world. An old tree-line ride led me up the hill, the manor house appeared amidst the trees. Its imposing stone & iron gates lay adjacent to the church and old garden gates hinted at the secret gardens that lay behind.
My trail led onwards through ancient woodlands and sweeping grasslands, the sky cleared, blue sky emerging from the clouds, as I arrived at the hilltop village. The ancient manor house was reinvigorated in the 1900’s with gardens and terraces. Wandering and taking in the carefully created scenes was a lovely way to finish my day.”
Not all of The Cotswolds is busy, walking & hiking in the quieter tucked away valleys offer hidden gems and joyous moments. Get in touch if you would like to find out more about Foot Trails’ Cotswolds walking & hiking trips.
