Key Information
Distance: 5.4 miles (8.7 km)
Start: Wood Stanway, Gloucestershire
End: Winchcombe, Gloucestershire
Time: 2-3 hours
Difficulty: Easy
Weather Forecast for this Section (Next 7 Days)
Section Overview
This is a shorter but varied section of the Cotswold Way, descending from the escarpment edge through parkland and open countryside before finishing in the historic town of Winchcombe. While the mileage is modest, there are still a few steady climbs and uneven stretches underfoot.
It’s a rewarding half-day walk, combining quiet rural scenery with a strong sense of history as you approach one of the most characterful towns on the trail.
Wood Stanway & Stanway Estate
Leaving Wood Stanway, the trail heads south across rolling farmland before skirting the edge of the Stanway Estate. The route passes near Stanway House, a striking Jacobean manor set within landscaped grounds.
Although the house itself is private and only open on selected days, the surrounding countryside is peaceful and scenic, with wide views and classic Cotswold stone walls lining parts of the route.
Through Fields and Gentle Valleys
Beyond Stanway, the trail continues across open fields and along farm tracks. The gradients are generally gentler than earlier sections along the escarpment, though there are still some steady undulations. In wet weather, parts of this stretch can become muddy, particularly where the path crosses pastureland.
As you near Winchcombe, the landscape begins to open up, with views towards the surrounding hills and Sudeley Hill rising to the south.
Approaching Winchcombe
The final approach into Winchcombe leads through farmland before reaching the edge of town. The descent is gradual, and the path becomes easier underfoot as you near paved roads.
Winchcombe is one of the highlights of the Cotswold Way — a welcoming town with a long history, attractive buildings and excellent facilities for walkers.
Winchcombe
Often described as the “walking capital of the Cotswolds,” Winchcombe makes an ideal overnight stop. The town offers pubs, cafés, shops, accommodation and useful services for long-distance walkers.
Nearby attractions include Sudeley Castle and the remains of Hailes Abbey (visited on the next section). With its friendly atmosphere and practical amenities, Winchcombe is a natural staging point before continuing south.