Nordic Walking in the Cotswolds
| 2026 Dates: | May 24 – 31 |
| Land Cost: | $3100 |
| Single Supplement: | $900 |
| Difficulty Level: | Easy |
| What’s Included: | 6 nights accommodation in manor house, daily breakfast and dinner, Nordic walking instruction, group transfer from/to London Heathrow Airport; all entrance fees to scheduled venues, use of poles, and our famous IBT t-shirt. |
The Cotswolds is the most beautiful area of England…
especially if you enjoy walking. There are so many trails that one can wander for weeks without taking the same path. The gates you have to open, or climb over, keep you on your toes. Figuring out where the lock is and closing the gate (a must to keep the sheep in their fields) requires a good eye and some dexterity. A law from 1949 created the concept of Open Country, where access agreements were negotiated with landowners. Subsequently, in 2000, a Rights of Way Act gave walkers access to most areas of uncultivated land. It can’t get more peaceful as you make your way through grass, narrow paths and fields.
A good map helps, a GPS comes in handy, an experienced guide is even better. Our guides are trained Nordic walking instructors and know the area well. Nordic walkers use special poles that help your balance. This easy-to-learn sport has many more health benefits than regular walking. You now combine Nordic walking with exploring the Cotswolds, and you are ready to go.
Do we sleep in hotels or are we camping in the fields? Not exactly. Be prepared to enter a Manor house dating to the 14th century. This Manor, set in 54 acres, has hosted T.S. Elliot where he wrote Burnt Norton. In other words, a very elegant place to stay for the duration of the tour. Each day we take day trips, and walk short distances like 4-6 miles. Who is in a hurry? Breakfast and dinner are included, and lunch may be a Ploughman’s meal in a nice pub.
The towns and villages in the Cotswolds are of particular interest. Bourton on the Water; Stow on the Wold, where the wind blows cold, as the saying goes; and Lower and Upper Slaughter. If you are looking for fresh air and some exercise, this tour will meet your expectations. The Monarch’s Way and the Heart of England Way are waiting for you.
