If you’re craving a proper Cotswold escape — our Naunton and Slaughters loop offers peaceful riverside paths, medieval villages, wildlife, old mills and those iconic honey‑stone cottages — this loop delivers it all.

🏞️ Naunton and Slaughters Walking Loop

A classic Cotswold wander through honey‑stone villages, rolling hills and one of the prettiest river valleys in England.

✨ Why You’ll Love This Walk

Starting just outside Bourton‑on‑the‑Water, the route follows the River Windrush west into a quiet valley before climbing over open hills and dropping into Upper and Lower Slaughter, two of the most beautiful villages in the UK.

It’s the kind of walk that feels like stepping into a postcard.

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🗺️ Route Breakdown

A) River Windrush Valley

Ease into the walk along a gentle riverside path. The Windrush twists through a quiet, untouched valley where the only sounds are birdsong and the river itself. Look out for pheasants, buzzards and the occasional heron.

B) Naunton

A classic Cotswold village tucked into the valley. Don’t miss the historic dovecote and the peaceful riverside views. This is a great early stop if you fancy a pub break.

C) Eyford Parkland

Climb gradually out of the valley and onto rolling hills with sweeping views across the Cotswolds. You’ll skirt the edge of Eyford’s landscaped parkland — a real highlight on a sunny day.

D) Upper Slaughter

A tiny, idyllic village with a ford, old farmhouses and timeless charm. It’s quiet, peaceful and feels untouched by modern life.

E) Lower Slaughter

Finish the loop by dropping into one of the most photographed villages in the Cotswolds. The old mill, waterwheel and riverside cottages are pure postcard material.

📍 Start / Parking

Informal roadside parking on the west side of the A429 (Fosse Way), just outside Bourton‑on‑the‑Water. Postcode: GL54 2AT Grid Ref: SP160209

Arrive early on weekends — this area gets busy.

🚶‍♂️ Route Details & What to Look Out For

• The Windrush section is flat and easy, perfect for warming up.
• After Naunton, the climb is steady but never steep — great views at the top.
• The descent into Upper Slaughter is one of the prettiest stretches of the whole loop.
• Between the Slaughters, keep an eye out for kingfishers along the river.
• The old mill in Lower Slaughter is a must‑see (and a great photo stop).

☕ Food & Drink

• The Black Horse Inn, Naunton — classic Cotswold pub with good food.
• Lower Slaughter Tea Room — perfect for a mid‑walk treat or a final stop before heading back.

🚍 Public Transport

• Nearest station: Moreton‑in‑Marsh
• Bus: 801 service to Bourton‑on‑the‑Water

⚠️ Important Notes

This guide is for inspiration only. Always:

• Stick to marked footpaths
• Follow the Countryside Code
• Close gates behind you
• Keep dogs under control, especially around livestock
• Check conditions before setting out

The Cotswolds are beautiful — let’s help keep them that way.

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Tips for the Best Day Out

• Start early for quieter paths and softer morning light
• Bring waterproof boots — the Windrush valley can get muddy
• Pack a picnic for the hilltop section near Eyford
• Save some battery for photos in Lower Slaughter
• If it’s been raining heavily, the ford at Upper Slaughter may be deeper than usual

🌟 Roundup

This loop is everything people love about the Cotswolds: peaceful rivers, rolling hills, wildlife, and villages that look like they’ve been lifted straight from a storybook. It’s a perfect day out for walkers who want a mix of scenery, history and charm — without anything too strenuous.

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