Chipping Campden was one of the first Cotswold towns I came to know. I was living in Stratford upon Avon and had a customer in Chipping Campden. Every time I visited, I would walk down the high street in awe of the old golden-coloured buildings. I felt like I was in a fairy tale. And nothing much has changed since then. In fact, nothing much has changed for centuries! Many of the buildings on the high street date back as far as the 14th century!
Before I delve into the the best things to do in Chipping Campden though, I think it’s important to understand a little bit of the history of the Cotswolds, since it oozes out of the buildings.
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A brief history lesson on the Cotswolds and Chipping Campden
Campden, or Campdenu as it was then known, was granted a market charter by King Henry II in 1185. Market in old English was “chipping”, hence Campdenu became Chipping Campdenu. Campdenu meant enclosure (camp) in the valley (denu). Pretty accurate for what Chipping Campden is! There were a number of important market towns in the North Cotswolds, including Moreton-in-Marsh, Chipping Norton, and Stow-on-the-Wold amongst others.
The reason for so many market towns was the importance of the wool trade, which is the reason why the Cotswolds is as wealthy as it is. When the Romans invaded England, they brought with them sheep. These sheep mated with the local sheep creating a breed known as the Cotswolds Lion which produced some of the finest wool in all of Europe. In the medieval era, the wool trade was at an all-time high, and the Cotswolds wool was the most sought-after wool. The wool merchants became incredibly rich and therefore built great manors with their wealth. They also donated a lot of money to their local churches, which is why so many Cotswold churches are so much bigger than their constituency requires. They are called wool churches.
It is this wealth, alongside the natural beauty of the rolling Cotswolds hills, that has made this Area of Outstanding Nature Beauty so alluring to visitors. It is the epitome of quintessential England, with honey-coloured cottages, thatched roofs, large manor homes, and imposing churches, all of which are picture-perfect.
History aside, Chipping Campden has plenty to offer for day-trippers, hikers, and holidaymakers alike. Throughout this article, I will share the things I enjoy doing most in the area with you.
First though, is Chipping Campden worth visiting?
Chipping Campden is definitely worth visiting! Whether you’re an outdoorsy person in love with nature or an arts and history geek, there are enough things to do in Chipping Campden to keep you entertained for more than a day. Plus, it makes an ideal spot from where to explore the rest of the North Cotswolds and the nearby Shakespearean town of Stratford upon Avon!
Best Things To Do in and around Chipping Campden
1. Enjoy the historic buildings
Chipping Campden has a lot of history and heritage. The moment you enter this little town, the contrasting modern-day amenities in old buildings and narrow lanes are a sight to behold. If architecture and history fascinate you deeply, some of the most remarkable buildings around the town should definitely be at the top of your list.
In the heart of Chipping Campden sits one of the most iconic buildings in the town: the Market Hall. Built in the 1600s, it is now under the protection of the National Trust. It was built to provide shelter for merchants selling perishable goods, similar to the one you will find in Moreton in Marsh. Unlike the market hall in Moreton in Marsh though, which has now had the arches filled in, the Chipping Campden one remains in its original state. Look closely and you will see where the stones have been worn away by hundreds of years of trade.
Between March and December, every second weekend in each month the market returns to Chipping Campden. It is now held in the Town Hall, rather than in the Market Hall. If you are there when it’s on it is worth a visit. There are generally arts and crafts, cakes, and clothes, amongst other goods, for sale.
2. Walk up to St James’ Church
The impressive St James’ Church with its 36-metre-high tower, is another relic built with money from the budding wool trade. It is famous across the isle for having one of the oldest tapestries and most significant brasses in England. The church stands proud at the top of town with sweeping views across Chipping Campden and beyond. It is one of the Cotswolds’ finest examples of a wool church, built with the money that Sir Baptist Hicks, a very wealthy wool merchant, donated to the church.
St James’ Church also happens to be the venue for the Chipping Campden Music Festival, which hosts some of the UK’s most acclaimed musicians. The brilliant acoustics make it a very special venue which attracts visitors from all over the world.
3. Admire the Alms
When you walk up from the town centre to the Church you will inevitably pass an old row of Cotswolds stone cottages. This row of 12 narrow homes is known as the Almshouses, which are a form of self-sufficient, low-cost community housing that is held in trust for local people with housing needs. And that is as true today as they were when they were built in 1612. Not much has changed in these homes, although I hope the privy is no longer outside!
The Almshouses were built during medieval times by either the church or trade guilds to support the people in the community who needed a helping hand. Today, 36,000 people are living full and independent lives in almshouses across the country thanks to the work of the Alsmhouse Association.
4. Check out the oldest house in town
There is one house that is bound to grab your attention when you reach Chipping Campden, and that is Grevel House, the oldest standing house in Chipping Campden. Situated in the north end of the town, you will undoubtedly pass it as you walk up to the church. It was built in the late 1300s by William Grevel, an important wool trader, and stands as a fine example of 14th-century architecture. It is worth noting that it is one of the first buildings to have had proper chimneys. Before then houses simply had holes in the roof! Also worth pointing out are the gargoyles and sundial.
The property has been remodelled over the years. However, it is believed that the stonework above the entrance door is still the original. Can you believe that! It’s been standing there for 700 years!
5. Take a Walk Along the High Street
Without a doubt, one of the best things to do in Chipping Campden is to absorb and enjoy the High Street. In fact, I’m not sure there is a more striking High Street in all of the Cotswolds. If you ignore the cars that are now parked on the road, little has changed in the last 700 years. Most of the properties date back to the 14th and 15th centuries, and were built with the golden honey-coloured Cotswold stone – a type of quarried oolitic limestone which this area is famous for.
There are 18 quarries in the Cotswolds, all of which produce slightly different coloured stone. In Bibury for example, the stone is much greyer, whereas in Chipping Campden it is a gorgeous light cream colour, similar to that of Blenheim Palace, Windsor Castle, and the University of Oxford. A large area of High Street has been protected for its heritage under a special conservation status, which means that the town needs to retain its historical appearance. For this reason, you won’t find many international chain stores here. No McDonalds or Starbucks. Instead, the street is lined with independent shops selling locally sourced produce.
Enjoy the Countryside on Foot
I am a huge advocate of exploring the Cotswolds on foot. It is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty for a reason, and whizzing past in a car will not give you the same joy as experiencing it slowly, step by step.
There are numerous National Long Trails that pass through, start, or finish in Chipping Campden. There must be a reason for that! Here are some of the routes passing through Chipping Campden. And I know I am biased, but putting on your walking boots and exploring the area on foot has to be the top of your things to do when visiting.
Cotswolds Way
The Cotswolds Way is the most iconic walk in the Cotswolds. If you have the time, I thoroughly recommend it as the number 1 best thing to do! The Cotswold Way happens to start in Chipping Campden, and follows the Cotswold ridge to Bath, in the South.
I ran this 100-mile path in July 2020. Aside from it being significantly hillier than anticipated (hillier in fact than the West Highland Way in Scotland!), it was breathtaking. I got to know a side of the Cotswolds I had never even imagined before. I realised how lucky I am to call this area of the UK home. If you have the time to spend 4-7 days hiking (or running) the length of the Cotswolds, then I would certainly recommend it! Not only will you see some of my favourite towns, such as Broadway, Stanton, and Painswick, but you will also hit every deserving viewpoint along the way.
Diamond Way
In 2021 I decided to hike the Diamond Way, wild camping along the way. The Diamond Way is one of the few circular routes in the area. Well, it is more of a diamond than a circle! This makes it ideal as you can start and finish in the same spot without worrying about onward travel. The route is 100 km, and unlike the Cotswolds way, it manages to avoid the worst of the hills, instead opting for the undulating lowlands of the Cotswolds.
I started off in Moreton in Marsh, where I live. Moreton-in-Marsh would also be an ideal spot for anyone travelling to the Cotswolds by train. However, if you are visiting Chipping Campden, why not start and finish there? The route will take you to some of the most picturesque Cotswolds towns, including Chipping Campden, Moreton in Marsh, Bourton on the Water, Blockley, and Northleach.
Heart of England Way
The Heart of England Way is yet another of the several long-distance walking trails passing through Chipping Campden. This 160-kilometre-long trail links several parts of Staffordshire, Gloucestershire, and Warwickshire. It is a beautiful walk with several remarkable sites along the way, such as Bourton on the Water, Castle Ring, Kingsbury Water Park, Cannock Chase, and Litchfield Cathedral. If you chose to walk the entire trail, Chipping Campden would be ideal for a rest day. However, if you aren’t looking for quite that size of adventure just yet, why not pick up part of it and then return along one of the many other footpaths that crisscross this area?
Monarch’s Way
The longest of the national footpaths passing through Chipping Campden is the Monarch’s Way, which is 1000 kilometres long! It supposedly follows King Charles II’s escape route from 1651. He crossed the Cotswolds from Chipping Campden to Moreton in Marsh, then south to Stow on the Wold, Northleach, Cirencester, and Tetbury before continuing South into Somerset. Throughout the trail are points of interest from the time, including the Royal Barn where he spent a night at Madeley, or the Royal Oak near Boscobel House in Staffordshire, where the King hid to avoid being captured. Hiking a long trail like this is a long-term ambition of mine. But for the time being, and since I have a mortgage to pay, I simply enjoy following the route King Charles took through the Cotswolds.
Circular Walks from Chipping Campden
If you want a short walk then there are plenty of circular walks in the area. My best advice would be to download the All Trails App and pick a route that best fits your fitness and available time. Below are some circular route suggestions.
Chipping Campden to Broad Campden
Broad Campden is beautiful. The little village is quaint with perfectly manicured hedgerows and a gorgeous row of cottages that I always have to stop and admire before continuing on with my walk. There is also a traditional pub in the village if you want to break up the walk with a pint or a bite to eat. In total, the circular route is just over 5 kilometres with very limited elevation gain making it perfect for most fitness levels.
Chipping Campden to Hidcote Manor Garden via Ebrington
It is possible to walk to Hidcote Manor Gardens and back following the same trail. However, if you want to make it a bit more interesting, then I recommend looping Ebrington in too. May is a brilliant time to enjoy this route as the woods around Ebrington come alive with bluebells. You can also stop off at the Ebrington Arms for a drink midway. This loop is 16 kilometres with 260 metres of elevation. You will require a moderate level of fitness.
Chipping Campden to Dover’s Hill
For some of the best views in the Cotswolds, I recommend hiking up to Dover’s Hill. You can go up and back in 5 km, or you can expand the walk a little further if you fancy exploring once you are on the Cotswolds Ridge. Unlikely Broadway Tower, which can get really busy, Dover’s Hill is more of a hidden gem that only locals tend to visit, even though the views are equally as breathtaking. From the top you get sweeping views over the Vale of Evesham, and on a clear day, you can see the Black Mountains and Long Mynd some 60 miles away! Sunsets from Dover’s Hill are simply spectacular, and I recommend you plan your walk accordingly.
If you fancy a slightly longer walk, then I highly recommend you keep going to Broadway Tower, 5 km away.
Dover’s Hill sits right on the edge of the Cotswolds, and it is that ridge that provided the perfect amphitheatre for the historical Olympick Games, founded by Mr Dover, after he had heard of the Greek Olympics. But more about that below.
The walk to Dover’s Hill involves around 250 metres of ascent. It is a steady incline all the way from town, but isn’t particularly strenuous. It is also possible to drive to Dover’s Hill where you will find a car park.
What if I don’t want to walk?
I realise not everyone will be as enthusiastic about spending their holiday walking as me. But, fear not, there is plenty to do that does not involve long treks (although I still might mention a few extra walks!).
Quirky things to do in Chipping Campden!
Experience the Annual Olimpick Games
You may have spotted I mentioned the Olimpick Games above. It was not a typo. We actually have medieval Olimpick games (yes! With a K!) in Chipping Campden, and have done since 1612! Every year on the Friday after Spring Bank Holiday, Dover’s Hill comes alive. The event is the brainchild of Captain Robert Dover – after whom Dover’s Hill is named. The Games saw a series of discontinuations and revivals until 1852, when the event was discontinued for good. It wasn’t until 1963 that it was revived again, and to date is still going strong with a huge following from locals and travellers alike! In fact, it is the one event on the calendar that you don’t want to miss.
Today, the Olimpick Games host a series of exciting events, including dwile flonking, morris dancing, and piano smashing! If you are wondering what dwile flonking is (I certainly had to google it!), it involves people dancing around while avoiding being hit by a beer-soaked cloth!
The opening ceremony consists of a person dressed as Robert Dover arriving on horseback to declare the start of the games. But if the Olimpicks must be known for one thing only, it has to be the famous shin-kicking event. This ” sport ” is often known as the English martial art. It involves two contestants attempting to kick the opponent on the shin to force them to the ground. It is quite a hilarious event to be a part of – and much less painful if you opt to remain a spectator!
Of all the things there are to do in the area, this is the most eclectic!
Moving on to less strange activities!
I never thought I would recommend visiting gardens as one of my top things to do, yet here I am, not suggesting just one but two! I started visiting gardens with my mum as it is something she enjoys doing and therefore something I can treat her to when she visits. However, it’s become my guilty pleasure now, especially if I can visit when there is nobody else there. They are such a great way to switch off, whether to go for a stroll, find a quiet bench to read a book, or simply practice some photography.
Stroll Around the Hidcote Manor Gardens
Why not visit the Cotswolds most famous gardens: Hidcote Manor Gardens! Created by Major Lawrence Johnston in 1905, the National Trust now owns the gardens. The most characteristic feature of Hidcote Manor Gardens is the series of garden rooms, all linked to each other. Some feature fountains, others ponds, but all have beds of flowers with colours popping in the otherwise primarily green maze surrounding the original manor house that dates back to the 17th century. As a result, the Hidcote Manor Gardens are a treat for all the senses.
May to September are considered the best months to visit Hidcote Manor Gardens since it is at this time that the gardens look the most vibrant! However, even in the winter months, it is still worth a visit, and it has the added benefit of being half the price!
Hidcote Manor Gardens aren’t strictly in Chipping Campden, but they are only a short drive away, or if you would prefer, a gentle 5 km walk each way.
Opening Times
November – February: Only open at the weekends. 11 am to 4 pm
March and October: Open daily 11 am to 4 pm
April – September: Open daily 10 am to 5 pm
To ensure you are checking the most up to date information, I recommend checking the National Trust website before visiting.
Admission fees
Winter (30th September to 31st December): £10 for adults and £5 for children. National Trust members can visit for free.
Peak Admission (29th April to 30th June): Adults £18 and children £9. National Trust members can visit for free.
Standard Admission: (1st Jan to 28th April and 1st July to 29th September): Adults £17 and children £8.5. National Trust members can visit for free.
Address: Hidcote Bartrim, Chipping Campden GL55 6LR
Kiftsgate Court Gardens
In case you haven’t had enough of walking around beautiful gardens and feeling like you’re on the set of Downton Abbey, consider lining up Kiftsgate Court Gardens after you’re done visiting Hidcote Manor. The Kiftsgate Court is just an 800-yard walk down the road from Hidcote Manor and is best known for its roses and the three generations of women gardeners that have created such a beautiful space. The Kiftsgate Rose is the largest in England and was first planted in 1938. This scented, climbing plant bears cream-white flowers and is a treat to the eye.
Kiftsgate is primarily a family home with beautiful perennials blooming throughout spring and summer, such as peonies, geraniums, magnolias, and roses, amongst others. Generations of female gardeners have looked after the gardens for the last century. Heather Muir planted the first flowers in the 1920s. Her daughter Diany Binny took over sometime in the 1950s, and presently, the gardens are looked after by Binny’s daughter: Anne Chambers. Apart from the gardens, there is a tearoom and a gift shop for visitors. This attraction is definitely worth a visit and has won many awards over time. It also has the added benefit of being half the price of Hidcote Manor Gardens! Although I’d still recommend them both for your “things to do list” when you visit the area!
Opening Times
October – March: Closed
April and September: 2 pm- 6 pm. Closed Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays.
May-August; 12 pm to 6 pm. Closed Fridays and Saturdays.
I recommend checking their website before visiting for the most accurate timetable in case there have been any changes.
Admission fees
Adults £11 and children under 16 £3.
Address: Mickleton, Chipping Campden GL55 6LN
Learn about the craft design movement at the Court Barn Museum
Located in the town centre, this small museum showcases the rich history and heritage of the local arts and crafts movement. With an extensive collection of exhibits, the museum offers visitors a glimpse into the lives and work of some of the finest craftsmen and women of the area. From furniture designs to textiles, and from silverware to jewellery, the museum displays a range of exquisite items that bear witness to the outstanding craftsmanship and creativity of the local artisans. The museum also features a temporary exhibition space that hosts a range of exciting and varied exhibitions throughout the year.
I found the history particularly fascinating. In 1902, C.R. Ashbee, founder of the Guild of Handicrafts, and 50 of his Guildsmen and their family arrived in Chipping Campden. They had left East London with their workshop equipment on the promise of a better life. They took over a disused silk mill on Sheep Street where they set out to make their crafts, but only two years later many of them had to return back to London as they were unable to make enough money. Despite this, some stayed on, and even to this day, the old silk mill still hosts workshops for budding artists.
Opening Times
November to March – Tuesday to Sunday, 10 am to 4 pm.
April to October – Tuesday to Sunday, 10 am to 5 pm.
Closed on Monday except Bank Holidays.
Admission fees
Adults £7 and those under 25 or full time students, FREE.
Address: Court Barn, Church Street, Chipping Campden, GL55 6JE
Go Antiquing
While on your walk through the High Street in Chipping Campden, a good option would be to stop by the several antique shops around here. They sell various knick-knacks worn by time but of high value today. From antique copperwork art pieces to ancient books, pine furniture, and even porcelain figurines – there is a lot you can get your hands on here. Hart Gold and Silversmiths are some of the most well-known shops in Chipping Campden. They are known for their antique jewelry and domestic silverware made of silver and gold.
Another place worth checking out is the Old Silk Mill, which used to be, well, a silk mill! It is now an arts and handicrafts gallery for the local artisans around Chipping Campden. School House Antiques, located in the old Grammar School building, has a beautiful collection of antique paintings, fine art, furniture, and more. Stuart House Antiques also comes highly recommended. Finally, Dragon House Campden Bookshop has books dating back to the Art and Crafts Movement as well as other pieces of antique art and literature.
All these shops go way back and are an essential part of the history of Chipping Campden. So wherever you end up, you are sure to get a solid dose of history and heritage while antiquing in the village – definitely one of the most interesting things to do in Chipping Campden!
Check out the gorgeous thatched cottages
One of the best things to do in Chipping Campden is to wander. This lovely small tall is full of hidden gems that you will stumble across by going for a stroll. One such gem are the thatched cottages at the end of Sheep Street. Only a couple of minutes’ walk away from the high street you will find a row of thatched cottages. The one that caught my eye was the corner cottage, with the beautiful garden and perfectly manicured hedges. They have a big dog statue that looks out across the road and thatched pheasant sits on top of the roof, an in-built scarecrow.
When exploring and photographing these lovely houses please remember they are someone’s home, so please do so unobtrusively.
My biggest recommendation? Join a tour!
Although the Cotswolds are easy to explore on your own if you have a car, you won’t be learning much about the area. Yes, you will undoubtedly arrive in Chipping Campden and think “oh wow, what a beautiful town”, but you won’e necessarily understand what you are looking at. For example, when you walk up to the Church, you will undoubtedly spot the impressive gates that seem to be the main entrance to a building that sits in the middle of the field. But what is that building? I never knew even though it featured on my most prized Cotswolds photo!
That building is the old remnants of Sir Hicks stately home. A banqueting house nonetheless. Not much remains of the grandeur that once stood there since it was destroyed during the civil war, but you will undoubtedly have questions when you look across at it from the church grounds.
The only reason I know this is because I joined Go Cotswolds on a tour recently. I have lived in the Cotswolds for 9 years and have made it a point to get to know each of the towns I’ve written about. Yet within the first 10 minutes of the tour, I had learned more than in 9 years! I thoroughly enjoyed my day with them and can’t recommend them highly enough.
If you want to know what you are looking at, definitely join them! You can do this on both Viator and Get Your Guide.
Explore the local independent shops
Due to the Cotswolds being a conservation area, all of the towns and villages have very strict regulations when it comes to what changes can be made to buildings, what types of fronts shops can have, and also what kind of businesses can operate in the towns. The focus is on local and independent, and this is evident but they great number of small shops that line the high street.
Some of my favourites include Frankie Doodle, a quirky gift shop which by their own admission sell nothing useful, yet I guarantee you will find a great stocking filler for a loved one in there! Toke’s Food and Drink is also great if you are looking for local beers, cheeses and other delicacies. Apparently, they also make great coffee! If you are after rustic homewares and gifts made by local designers then make sure you check out Sam Wilson Studio Shop. If you are after kitchenware and cutlery made by world-renowned designers, then head to Robert Welsh Studio Shop. My favourite though, is Fillet & Bone. You can’t help but notice their great veg and fruit display, reminiscent of a market stall. But it is the local artisan produce that will have you salivating!
Visit the Little Oak Vineyard
The Cotswolds might not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of a vineyard, but the Little Oak Vineyard is getting some great reviews. I must admit that I don’t like wine and have therefore not visited, but a few of my Instagram followers have recommended it and therefore I thought I’d include it as somewhere for you to check out if interested!
Address: Little Oak Vineyard, Paxford Road, Chipping Campden GL55 6LA
Where to eat in Chipping Campden
Unless this is the first blog of mine you are reading, you will know that no “top things to do” list could ever be complete without talking about food! The Cotswolds has earned itself an excellent reputation as a foodie destination with plenty of high-quality pubs that focus on locally sourced produce. Here are a few of my favourites!
Eight Bells Inn
This proper country pub is as rustic as dining can get! Established in the 14th century, this is probably one of Chipping Campden’s oldest places to eat (and drink). They have a menu featuring traditional, homely meals made with locally sourced seasonal ingredients. They also have a fine selection of ales, lagers, spirits, and wines to compliment your meal. The Inn also features six ensuite bedrooms for a very authentic feel!
Campden Coffee Company
If you’d rather choose a cup of freshly ground coffee, then Campden Coffee Company is the place to be. They have seating both inside and outside and benefit from being a pet-friendly establishment. Their milkshakes are very popular, as is their selection of cakes, waffles, and of course – coffee!
Bantam Tea Rooms
Have you been to the Cotswolds if you haven’t had afternoon tea? Bantam Tea Rooms serve great tea, coffee, and a particularly good hot chocolate. They also have a great selection of homemade cakes, as well as of course serving a traditional afternoon tea.
Bantam Tea Rooms is located within a 17th-century building and remains full of character. I suppose, you would expect nothing less of any establishment in Chipping Campden. They also have rooms if you are looking for somewhere to stay!
Victor’s
If you are looking for an easy lunch, look no further. Victor’s is a family-run sandwich shop and café offering both takeaway and eat-in options. They make some great seasonal baguettes. I was there just before Christmas and enjoyed their special Christmas baguette made with turkey, stuffing, cranberry and pigs in blankets! It was quite the mouthful but very delicious!
The Seagrave Arms
The Seagrave Arms is one of the finer eateries near Chipping Campden. They serve a set, lavish menu separately for lunch and dinner. But it is their Sunday Specials that are to die for. So if you want a roast, this is the place to come! It is just a short 3-mile drive from the centre of town. Or why not walk there and work up an appetite?
Three Ways House
Also known as the Pudding Club! It is in Mickleton, 3 miles from Chipping Campden, but I felt it was worth mentioning if you have a sweet tooth! Since 1985, the Three Ways House Hotel has been on a mission to preserve the Great British Pudding. Dinner at the Three Ways House is more than just a meal. It is an experience!
Start with a glass of buck fizz followed by a light main course. Seven traditional English puddings follow this! In the winter months, you can expect warm puddings like Spotted Dick or Sticky Toffee Pudding. In the summer, there is a selection of cold puddings, such as Eton mess and gooseberry fool!
It is quite frankly one of the most satisfying food experiences you will have in the Cotswolds! You can also stay there if you like. It is one of the more affordable places in the area!
Where to Stay in Chipping Campden
There are so many beautiful properties to choose from in Chipping Campden and surrounding towns. Below are my favourite based on either the service they provide, their location or the fact they offer something different!
Campden Mews
If you are travelling with family or friends, the Campden Mews is a great option. It is a holiday rental with two double bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a fully functional kitchen. What I particularly liked though, is the patio and barbeque making it the perfect summer rental so you can enjoy al fresco dining in the warmer months. It also the benefit of free parking, and includes towels and linen. It is an allergy free home though, so pets are not allowed.
Singer House
If you are looking for pet friendly accommodation, then I recommend Singer House. It is also a great holiday rental if you are travelling as a group since it boasts 3 double bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, and an inner courtyard perfect for outdoor dining during the warmer months. The location is perfect, right in the centre of town, and the house is beautiful decorated and designed. But best of all is the walled garden, which is a little slice of paradise.
Hook Cottage
If you are looking to stay in a really cute cottage, then check out Hook Cottage. It is another great holiday rental perfect for groups featuring 3 double rooms and a single room, and just like the previous two it has a gorgeous terrace and garden as well as BBQ facilities. I just hope you get lucky with the weather so you can enjoy it! The owners were very thoughtful and left milk and bread for us as well as a lovely bottle of wine. It is those kind of touches that make a place stand out!
Willersey Shepard’s Hut
Though located at Willersey, about 3 miles from Chipping Campden, this shepherd’s hut is worth mentioning here. It is halfway between Chipping Campden and Broadway, so it also features in my “How to spend a day in Broadway” post. This two-person hut has been very thoughtfully designed. It features sheepskin throws over antique French chairs, hand-carved stone for the basin, and no end of other intricate design details. What caught my attention though, were the reviews, which are all five stars!
You can read more about it here.
Woolmarket House
The Woolmarket House is a bed and breakfast tailormade to give you the charm of a typical countryside getaway. This boutique property has a very medieval charm to it. With exposed stone walls and bathtubs in bedrooms, this is as luxurious as your stay in Chipping Campden could possibly get! They also have an in-house Mediterranean restaurant which is excellent too.
Cotswold House Spa
If you’re on the lookout for a well-balanced fusion of old-school and contemporary, look no further! The Cotswolds House Hotel and Spa is located in the peace and quiet of the countryside, yet is easily accessible from the main action at Chipping Campden. Their Bistro On The Square is known for its tapas, and the newer Fig Restaurant is best for hearty meals.
But whether these catch your eye or not, you will certainly find no shortage of places to stay in Chipping Campden. The town and the surrounding area are teeming with traditional Bed and Breakfasts, hotels, and Airbnbs. And if you fancy reconnecting with nature then check out these campsites!
Will you be adding Chipping Campden to your bucket list?
If you are coming to the Cotswolds don’t miss out Chipping Campden. Although it is one of the key towns in the Cotswolds, it doesn’t receive anywhere near as many tourists as Bourton-on-the-Water or Bibury does yet both of those are close enough to explore as part of a day trip. Whether you want to enjoy beautiful walks, admire the 15th century buildings made from local Cotswold stone, or enjoy life in a small market town, you are in for a treat!
If you need any help planning your visit, please don’t hesitate to get in touch, I always love hearing from my readers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Nearest railway station?
The nearest train station is in Moreton-in-Marsh. You would then need to either get a taxi or get the Stagecoach 1 Bus towards Stratford upon Avon which passes through Chipping Campden. Have a read of “Cotswolds by public transport” for more details on how to get around without a car.
When is the best time to visit?
Although the Cotswold can be enjoyed all year round, I always think the best time to visit is in May, when all the flowers are in bloom!
Is it easy to drive in the Cotswolds?
Yes if you are a confident driver. However, if you are not used to driving on the left-hand side of the road and don’t like narrow lanes, then it could take a little getting used to. I have written an article on “Tips to driving in the Cotswolds” which you mind find useful if not from the UK. If you are renting a car then I suggest you check Rentalcars.com for the best deals!
Did you find this article helpful?
If you found this article helpful and would like to show your appreciation, please consider donating to my Street Child fundraiser!
Street Child is a UK-based charity working across 20 of the most challenging countries in the world, providing the most vulnerable children with access to education. I have taken on many challenges over the years to raise funds for Street Child, including running a marathon in 42 C heat in Sierra Leone, cycling 400KM from my home in the Cotswolds to the Netherlands, running a very hilly 50km Ultra Marathon in Madeira and tackling the arduous trek to Base Camp (taking place November 2024).
So, if you found this article helpful and would like to show your appreciation, please consider donating to my fundraiser. The cost of a coffee is enough to change a child’s world!
