At the start of the Cotswold Way
Chipping Campden marks the northern end of the Cotswold Way, with a hand-carved marker stone beside the Market Hall marking the beginning of the 102-mile National Trail to Bath. From the centre of the town, the route heads towards Dover's Hill before continuing south through the Cotswolds National Landscape.
The town developed around its long High Street, with buildings constructed from local Cotswold limestone reflecting its history as an important centre of the medieval wool trade. The Market Hall, built in 1627, stands at the centre of the town, while the Church of St James towards the northern end of Chipping Campden is closely associated with the wealth generated by the wool trade.
Beyond the High Street, paths lead into the farmland, woodland and hills surrounding Chipping Campden. Its position beneath the Cotswold escarpment connects the historic town directly with the wider walking landscape of the northern Cotswolds.
Walking from Chipping Campden
Leaving Chipping Campden, the Cotswold Way climbs towards Dover's Hill, where open grassland on the edge of the escarpment overlooks the Vale of Evesham. The hill is also associated with the historic Cotswold Olimpicks, which have been held here in various forms since the early 17th century.
Beyond Dover's Hill, the trail continues through the northern Cotswolds towards Broadway Tower, standing on high ground above Broadway. From the tower, the Cotswold Way descends from the escarpment towards Broadway, the next major destination along the route.
Shorter walks from Chipping Campden also provide opportunities to explore the surrounding countryside without continuing along the full National Trail, including routes around Dover's Hill and the opening section of the Cotswold Way.
Stay in Chipping Campden
For walkers starting the Cotswold Way or spending time in Chipping Campden, Bantam Tea Rooms provides accommodation on the High Street, beside the beginning of the National Trail. With the historic Market Hall opposite, it is well placed for exploring the town and surrounding northern Cotswolds, or setting out towards Dover's Hill, Broadway Tower and Broadway.