BBC Countryfile Magazine

Chocolate-box countryside

There’s something about the Cotswolds that just begs you to lace up your hiking boots. The hills rise and fall with pleasing softness, the panoramas are deep and the footpaths are many.

In this region, a rolling view without a right of way is rare. All of which makes it a deeply rewarding place to walk, especially when you factor in the legions of attractive tearooms and inviting country pubs.

There are several multi-day options for lovers of long-distance trails – the 68-mile Oxfordshire Way, 65-milefocusing on some of the best short walks in the region. This is a year-round walking destination, and trail signage is usually pretty good, but regardless of your plans it’s always sensible to have full route directions and a map to hand before you set out.

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