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Cotswold

Stow-On-The-Wold

Attractions and Places To See around Stow-On-The-Wold - Top 20

Best attractions and places to see around Stow-On-The-Wold include a variety of historical sites, charming villages, and natural landscapes within the Cotswolds. This region is characterized by its traditional stone architecture and the presence of rivers like the Windrush and Eye. Visitors can explore settlements with historical significance and enjoy the surrounding countryside. The area offers diverse points of interest for those seeking to discover the local heritage and natural beauty.

Best attractions and places to see around Stow-On-The-Wold

  • The most popular attractions is Lower Slaughter, a settlement characterized by the River Eye running through its middle. This village is known for its unique charm and historical watermill.
  • Another must-see spot is The Old Mill, Lower Slaughter, a man-made monument with a history dating back to at least 1086. This mill, situated on the River Eye, now houses a museum, shop, and riverside cafe.
  • Visitors also love Bourton-on-the-Water village, an archetypal Cotswold village with arched bridges spanning the River Windrush. It is known for its pretty cottages and honey-coloured brick houses, offering a family-friendly atmosphere.
  • Stow-On-The-Wold is known for its historical sites, picturesque villages, and natural reserves. The area offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, including viewpoints and man-made monuments.
  • The attractions around Stow-On-The-Wold are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 600 upvotes and over 200 photos shared.

Last updated: May 5, 2026

Lower Slaughter

Highlight • Settlement

Lower Slaughter is a small village on the River Eye, which runs through the middle of the village. There is a former watermill from the 19th century, which nowadays has a cozy café but also a "tourist trap" with clothing and fishing rods.

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Bourton-on-the-Water village

Highlight • Viewpoint

An archetypal Cotswold village, Bourton-on-the-Water's mix of pretty cottages and honey-coloured brick houses give it an undeniable charm. Delightful arched bridges span the River Windrush, the small river responsible for giving Bourton its 'Venice of the Cotswolds' tag.

The ancient Roman road, the Fosse Way, travels through the village and it is also that start point for the Oxfordshire Way long-distance trail to Henley-on-Thames.

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Stow-on-the-Wold Market Cross

Highlight • Monument

The market cross stands in the heart of Stow on the Wold's market square. It was constructed in medieval times as a reminder to traders to deal honestly and fairly.

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Moreton-in-Marsh — Market town

Highlight • Settlement

A thriving market town in the Cotswolds, Moreton-in-Marsh still holds a market every Tuesday. The town has been hosting travellers for at least 1,700 years and many inns, pubs and hotels still welcome visitors today. Built from typical golden Cotswold stone, the town has a pretty 18th century high street and many historic buildings. You can even visit a pub where King Charles I sheltered during the English Civil war – the White Hart. They have a copy of his unpaid bill in the entrance lobby.

Other famous visitors to the town include J. R. R. Tolkien, author of the Lord of the Rings trilogies. The Bell Inn supposedly inspired Middle Earth's pub the Prancing Pony.

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This nature reserve features rare tree species, ancient hedgerows, wildflower meadows, the River Eye, and a lake that is teeming with wildlife. People have lived and farmed at Greystones continuously for thousands of years — since the Neolithic (New Stone Age) era, more than 6,000 years ago — and it is the location of one of Europe’s earliest known towns. There are waymarked trails around the reserve to explore, as well as a cafe and other facilities. For more information, visit: gloucestershirewildlifetrust.co.uk/explore/our-visitor-centres/greystones.

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Popular around Stow-On-The-Wold

Monarch's Way: Part 2 — Conquer the longest inland trail in England

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Monarch's Way: Part 2 — Conquer the longest inland trail in England

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Tips from the Community

Tony BOOGAERTS
July 24, 2025, Lower Slaughter Village

Very lovely

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In the case of a "market cross," as we encounter here again, one would have to ask the fundamental question of whether it is actually primarily a small sacred monument—as its cross shape suggests—or whether it is more of a secular object. In times long past, such a cross—unlike classic wayside crosses or field crosses—was only allowed to be erected if the corresponding locality also possessed so-called "market rights"—that is, if it had been granted them by the local ruler.

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In the middle of a small green area within the village, a cross rises atop a tall stone shaft. However, as hikers notice upon approach, this is by no means a small sacred monument in the sense of the wayside crosses common in some regions. Rather, this monument, like those found in many villages, is dedicated to the memory of the victims of war and tyranny.

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Plenty of time to look around

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Famous for its honey-coloured traditional Cotswold stone buildings, Bourton-on-the-Water is often referred to as the 'Venice of the Cotswolds'. The River Windrush runs through the middle of the town with five stone bridges crossing it. The bridges were built between 1654 and 1911.

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Alex
September 11, 2023, Lower Slaughter Village

Lower Slaughter is a beautifully quaint village with the Little Eye stream running through the middle of it. The village mill with original water wheel sits proudly on one side of the stream.

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Great start & finish point. Lots of places to have a coffee, a cup of tea or something stronger and plenty of choice if you want something to eat too. Not an expert but the shopping looks interesting as well. Worth a visit.

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One of the nicest place in Britain

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are some family-friendly attractions around Stow-On-The-Wold?

For families, Bourton-on-the-Water village is a popular choice, known for its charming arched bridges over the River Windrush and attractions like the Dragonfly Maze and The Model Village. You can also visit Lower Slaughter, a picturesque village with a historical watermill. Another excellent option is Greystones Farm Nature Reserve, which offers waymarked trails, a cafe, and opportunities for wildlife spotting.

Where can I find historical sites near Stow-On-The-Wold?

The area is rich in history. You can explore the medieval Stow-on-the-Wold Market Cross in the town center. The village of Lower Slaughter features a historical watermill, and specifically, The Old Mill, Lower Slaughter, which dates back to at least 1086 and now houses a museum. Greystones Farm Nature Reserve also has a deep history, being the site of one of Europe’s earliest known towns.

Are there opportunities for wildlife spotting or nature walks?

Yes, Greystones Farm Nature Reserve is ideal for nature enthusiasts. It features rare tree species, ancient hedgerows, wildflower meadows, the River Eye, and a lake teeming with wildlife. There are waymarked trails throughout the reserve for easy exploration. For more extensive walks, consider the hiking routes available in the region, which you can find in the Hiking around Stow-On-The-Wold guide.

What kind of outdoor activities can I do near these attractions?

Beyond exploring the attractions, the area around Stow-On-The-Wold is excellent for outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for cycling, gravel biking, and hiking. For detailed routes, check out the Cycling around Stow-On-The-Wold, Gravel biking around Stow-On-The-Wold, and Hiking around Stow-On-The-Wold guides.

Are there any easy walks suitable for all abilities near Stow-On-The-Wold?

Yes, several easy walks are available. For example, the Hiking around Stow-On-The-Wold guide lists routes like the 'Stow-on-the-Wold Market Cross – St Mary's Church, Lower Swell loop' and 'The Porch House – Stow-on-the-Wold Market Cross loop' which are rated as easy. Greystones Farm Nature Reserve also offers accessible waymarked trails.

What is Bourton-on-the-Water village known for?

Bourton-on-the-Water village is often called the 'Venice of the Cotswolds' due to its charming arched bridges spanning the River Windrush. It's renowned for its picturesque cottages, honey-coloured brick houses, and a family-friendly atmosphere. The ancient Roman road, the Fosse Way, also passes through the village.

Can I find cafes or places to eat near the attractions?

Many attractions offer convenient dining options. The Old Mill, Lower Slaughter, for instance, has a lovely riverside cafe. Greystones Farm Nature Reserve also features a cafe. In Bourton-on-the-Water village, you'll find various pubs and cafes.

Are there any attractions that are wheelchair accessible?

While specific accessibility details vary, Bourton-on-the-Water village and Stow-on-the-Wold Market Cross are generally accessible in their main areas. For nature, Greystones Farm Nature Reserve offers waymarked trails that are often suitable for various mobility levels. It's always advisable to check specific venue information for detailed accessibility.

What is the best time to visit Stow-On-The-Wold for walks and attractions?

The Cotswolds, including Stow-On-The-Wold, are beautiful year-round. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for walks and enjoying the vibrant landscapes. Autumn brings stunning foliage, while winter can be charming with fewer crowds, though some facilities might have reduced hours. For walks, checking local weather forecasts is always recommended.

What makes Lower Slaughter a unique place to visit?

Lower Slaughter is a small, picturesque village characterized by the River Eye running through its middle. Its unique charm comes from its traditional stone architecture and the historical Old Mill, which now houses a museum, shop, and riverside cafe, offering a glimpse into the area's past.

Are there any hidden gems or less crowded spots to explore?

While popular, Greystones Farm Nature Reserve can offer a more tranquil experience away from the busiest tourist hubs, with its extensive trails and focus on nature. Exploring the smaller footpaths and less-traveled routes listed in the Hiking around Stow-On-The-Wold guide can also lead you to quieter spots.

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