Naunton and Slaughters Walking Loop

Route overview

Follow the mapped loop through the Windrush valley, Naunton, Eyford and the Slaughters. Leave time for the village sections after the longer countryside paths.

Follow the route

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.

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.

Open this route in Google Maps

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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

Use designated visitor parking in Bourton-on-the-Water and plan a safe walking connection to the mapped start. Do not park on the A429 verge. The approach from your parking space adds distance to the mapped 9.8-mile circuit.

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

• Plan a food stop in one of the villages, checking the opening time for your visit.
• Use the interactive map below to compare places to eat around the route.

🚍 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.

Where to Stay in the Cotswolds

Find places to stay on the interactive map and check the journey to the walk’s start.

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 — with enough distance to make a full walking day.

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