Cotswold Way: Birdlip to Painswick

The Cotswold Way: Birdlip to Painswick walk is a well-marked and well-maintained footpath. It is a one-way route, and the bus ride between villages takes nearly as long as the walk. So you may wish to walk back or have a vehicle at both ends of the trail. The climb up Cooper’s hill is steep and can be quite slippery in wet conditions. Please make sure to beware of flying golf balls as you pass the Painswick golf course.

The Birdlip to Painswick section of the Cotswold Way is a lovely walk through quiet woods and rolling hills. While taking in the bucolic country views from the top of Cooper’s Hill, take a moment to imagine the festival where contestants chase mock wheels of cheese down the escarpment. Or plan your walk in May and join in the fun!

As you walk between Birdlip and Painswick, you’ll find the footpath is well marked, follow the acorn symbol and national trail signs. The beginning of the trail winds its way up the escarpment towards Cooper’s Hill. It’s a steep climb up the hill, but the views from the top are incredible.

Continue following the path through the Buckholt Wood, and keep an eye out for breaks in the trees where you’ll catch glimpses of the rolling Cotswolds hills.

As you walk along the Painswick golf course ensure you stay clear of flying golf balls and allow golfers the right of way. You may want to make a slight detour near the 14th hole to visit the Painswick Beacon. Here, you’ll find a hill fort established in the Iron Age and impressive views of Gloucestershire.

From the Beacon, the walk is downhill into the lovely town of Painswick. There are pubs and cafes in Painswick if you want to stop for refreshments at the end of the walk.

Consider a Walking Holiday in the Cotswolds

One of the best ways to experience this stunning Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is by booking a pre-planned adventure tour in the Cotswolds. Find the famous self-guided Cotswolds Way and other amazing guided and self-guided tours on 10Adventures Tours.