Spring is just such a special time of year, especially in the Cotswolds. Let’s face it, the British winter can be long, grey, and wet, and by the time March is here, we are ready for some sunshine, flowers, and all the joys of spring. Bring it on, I say!
In our opinion, there is nothing better after the winter to months than getting the whole family out in the countryside for a walk to explore all nature has to offer.
Here is the Cotswolds we are spoilt for choice when it comes to great spring walks. Here, we have rounded up our favorites – with masses of spring flowers, streams, baby animals, and countryside views to enjoy on a fabulous spring day with the kids.
Click on the guides below to find out all the details, including if the walks have play areas, cafes, and toilet facilities along the way.
Cotswold Little Explorers Favorite spring walks
Stanton, Snowshill and Stanway.
This 6.3 mile/ 10 k walk takes in these 3 sweet and picturesque Cotswold stone villages.
Enjoy spring flowers bursting from village gardens and greens, the path then takes you through bluebells in Littleworth Wood. A solid choice to experience perfect Cotswold spring scenes. There is a lovely cafe at Snowshill Manor, which is also well worth a visit. ( Entrance fee or NT membership required )
Broadway village to the tower
In this classic Cotswold walk, you will see amazing views from Broadway Tower, newborn lambs grazing in the field with their mothers, and with the pretty gardens of Broadway Village full of daffodils, tulips and blossom trees, it is the perfect spring time walk.
My children loving walking through the pastures of grazing sheep and lambs in the spring; it really is a lovely way to connect with nature. Bonus – there is a nice café at the top of the hill to reward yourselves with something delicious!
Dover’s Hill Bluebell Walk
Walk on the stunning Dovers Hill with magnificent views of the Cotswolds and the masses off bluebells in Lynches Wood, in this great springtime walk, just a stones throw from quaint Chipping Camden.
Bourton on the Water to the Slaughters
Start in lovely Bourton on the Water, a must-see location in the Cotswolds. See spring flowers and blossom trees reflected in the pretty River Windrush that flows through the centre of the village, then on to a riverside walk to the quieter and lesser known, but equally pretty villages know as The Slaughters.
Bibury to Coln St Alwyns
Start in the village of Coln St Alwyns, then walk through pastures and fields until you reach the famous Arlington Row in the picture perfect Bibury. It looks just stunning in spring with all the daffodils and tulips outside the cottages. Follow the River Coln as it takes you past Bibury Court, and back through the valley to Coln St Alwyns.
Stow on the Wold to Broadwell
Popular Cotswold town Stow on the Wold becomes alive with colour in spring with all the flowers and window boxes that pop up in gardens, shops, and the High Street. Have a look around Stow on the Wold and then walk along footpaths and quiet lanes to the hidden gem of Broadwell. A quiet yet delightful Cotswold stone village, full of charm, and with an excellent pub, it is the perfect short and enjoyable countryside ramble.
Last but not least …..
The Daffodil Way, Dymock Forest
Located outside of the Cotswolds in the Forest of Dean, see the famous wild daffodils on this gorgeous springtime walk. We know this isn’t actually in the Cotswolds (it’s about a 40 minute drive) but it’s so lovely we wanted to share it with you anyway.
Vast swathes of daffodils fluttering and dancing in the breeze (to quote a certain poem about daffodils!) Can be seen here in March and April.
This trail leads visitors through fields of wild daffodils in Dymock Forest and Kempley Green. There are also bluebells to spot along the beautiful forest paths. A really great walk to spot lots of lovely spring flowers.
The full trail is 9 miles, and based on the 1 mile for 1 year of age, children age 9 and upwards should manage this distance, however, if thats too much for little legs and younger children, there is also a shorter loop perfect for a stroll to see the famous daffodils.
Looking for walks suitable for toddlers, or are you bringing a pushchair or wheelchair with you?
More fabulous things to do this spring in the Cotswolds
Looking for more things to do in the Cotswolds this Spring?
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Cotswold Little Explorers 
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