The Best Walks Around Bourton-On-The-Water
Nestled in the heart of the Cotswolds, Bourton-on-the-Water is famous for its honey-coloured stone bridges, gentle river, and postcard-perfect charm, but step just beyond the village and an even bigger reward awaits. Rolling hills, ancient footpaths, and storybook villages unfold in every direction, making this one of the most magical places in England to explore on foot.
In this guide, we’ve gathered the best walks around Bourton-on-the-Water, from easy rambles to longer countryside routes that link together some of the most beautiful corners of the surrounding Cotswolds villages. Whether you’re after a peaceful riverside stroll, sweeping views across open farmland, or a classic pub-to-pub walk, these routes showcase the area at its very best. Each walk links to popular AllTrails routes, so you can plan with confidence and set off knowing exactly what lies ahead.
Lace up your boots, charge your phone, and get ready to discover why Bourton-on-the-Water isn’t just a destination, it’s the perfect starting point for unforgettable walks through the Cotswolds.
Archaeology, Rivers & Lakes Walk Near Bourton-on-the-Water Walk
🚶 Easy - 1.9 miles | ⏱️ 30 - 60 minutes
A wonderfully varied walk that blends natural beauty with fascinating history. You’ll pass ancient landscapes, serene lakes, and winding rivers, making this route feel exploratory and slightly off the beaten path. A great choice if you like your walks with a side of discovery.
Bourton-on-the-Water & River Windrush Circular Walk
🚶 Easy - 2.5 miles | ⏱️ 60 - 90 minutes
A relaxed and scenic route that follows the gentle curves of the River Windrush. Flat and easy underfoot, this walk is ideal for a peaceful ramble, with plenty of spots to pause, take photos, and enjoy the calming rhythm of the water and surrounding meadows.
Little Rissington & Wyck Rissington Circular Walk
🚶 Moderate - 4.9 miles | ⏱️ 2 - 2.5 hours
This quiet circular walk links two charming villages via open fields and traditional Cotswolds countryside. Less touristy and wonderfully calm, it’s perfect for those looking to escape the crowds and experience a more authentic, lived-in side of the region.
Bourton-on-the-Water and Lower Slaughter Circular Walk
🚶 Moderate - 5.4 miles | ⏱️ 2 - 2.5 hours
A classic Cotswolds walk linking two of the region’s most picturesque villages. This gentle circular route follows quiet lanes and grassy footpaths, with honey-stone cottages, rolling fields, and the soothing presence of the River Eye along the way. Perfect if you want maximum charm with minimal effort.
Bourton-on-water, Little Rissington and Clapton Circular Walk
🚶 Moderate - 5.8 miles | ⏱️ 2.5 - 3 hours
This route offers a more open countryside feel, taking you beyond the busy village centre into peaceful farmland and lesser-known hamlets. Expect wide views, tranquil paths, and a real sense of the rural Cotswolds—ideal for walkers who enjoy space, silence, and slower miles.
Lower Slaughter, Upper Slaughter, and Bourton-on-the-Water Circular Walk
🚶 Moderate - 6 miles | ⏱️ 2.5 - 3 hours
One of the most iconic village-hopping routes in the Cotswolds. This walk connects three postcard-perfect locations, blending riverside paths with gentle hills and historic streets. A must-do if you want to tick off multiple famous villages in one memorable loop.
Bourton-on-the-Water and Stow-on-the-Wold Circular Walk
🚶 Moderate - 9.5 miles | ⏱️ 4.5 - 5 hours
A longer, more rewarding walk that combines countryside trails with the buzz of one of the Cotswolds’ most well-known market towns. Expect varied terrain, expansive views, and a satisfying sense of journey—ideal for confident walkers looking for a full day out.
Bourton-on-the-Water, The Slaughters & Naunton Circular Walk
🚶 Hard - 12 miles | ⏱️ 5.5 - 6 hours
A beautifully diverse, and more challenging route that strings together rivers, rolling hills, and several quintessential villages. With plenty of changing scenery and classic Cotswolds character throughout, this walk is perfect if you want variety, views, and villages all in one adventure.
Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning to a much-loved favourite, walking is one of the best ways to truly experience Bourton-on-the-Water and the surrounding Cotswolds villages. From gentle riverside rambles to longer village-to-village adventures, these routes reveal the quieter paths, open countryside, and timeless charm that make this area so special.
Whichever walk you choose, take your time, stop for a pub lunch or a coffee along the way, and enjoy the changing scenery at every turn. With clear AllTrails routes to guide you, all that’s left to do is lace up your boots and head out into the Cotswolds countryside, where every footpath seems to lead to another beautiful view.
Ready to experience the charm of Bourton-on-the-Water and the surrounding areas? Book your stay at The Old New Inn and immerse yourself in the heart of the Cotswolds. We look forward to welcoming you!