Key Information
Distance: 7.3 miles (11.7 km)
Start: Dursley, Gloucestershire
End: Wotton-under-Edge, Gloucestershire
Time: 3.5 – 4.5 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Weather Forecast for this Section (Next 7 Days)
Section Overview
This section delivers a classic mix of open hilltop walking, woodland paths and gentle farmland as the Cotswold Way continues south. After climbing out of Dursley onto Stinchcombe Hill, the route follows the escarpment edge before gradually descending towards Wotton-under-Edge.
The gradients are steady rather than severe, making this a manageable but satisfying day’s walk with excellent views and a strong sense of progression along the ridge.
Climbing Stinchcombe Hill
Leaving Dursley, the trail makes a steady ascent onto Stinchcombe Hill. The climb is sustained but not overly steep, and once on the ridge, the walking becomes more open.
Stinchcombe Hill is common land, often grazed by cattle and sheep. The wide grassy paths provide expansive views west across the Severn Vale and east into rolling Cotswold countryside.
Ridge and Woodland Walking
After the open hilltop, the route dips into woodland and quiet farmland. This stretch feels more secluded, with shaded tracks and occasional clearings offering glimpses back towards Cam Peak and the surrounding hills.
Underfoot conditions are generally good, though woodland sections can become muddy after prolonged rain.
Approaching Wotton-under-Edge
As you near Wotton-under-Edge, the trail begins a gradual descent from higher ground. The landscape transitions from exposed escarpment to gentler countryside with hedgerows, fields and dry stone walls.
The approach into town is steady and clearly waymarked.
Wotton-under-Edge
Wotton-under-Edge is an attractive market town with a long history and a good range of facilities for walkers, including shops, cafés, pubs and accommodation.
It makes an excellent overnight stop before continuing into the quieter southern stretches of the Cotswold Way.