Wotton-under-Edge Cotswold Gateway Route 2

Setting out from the small market town of Wotton-under-Edge on the western edge of the Cotswolds, this short but steady climb heads straight up to Wotton Hill, where a walled clump of trees is one of the most recognisable landmarks along this stretch of escarpment. The views open quickly, taking in the Severn Vale and, on clear days, the hills of Wales beyond.

From the hilltop the route continues along Old London Road Nature Reserve, a limestone-grassland corridor rich in wildflowers, before slipping into the quieter woodland paths that lead to Brackenbury Ditches Hillfort. The Iron Age earthworks are cloaked in trees, giving the ramparts a hushed, atmospheric feel. The walk finishes with a gentle stroll through Westridge Wood, a mixed beech and ash canopy typical of the Cotswold edge.

At just over 3 kilometres it is short, but the 251 metre climb from the town packs the effort in early. Back in Wotton itself you can round things off at the Royal Oak Inn or the Star Inn, or browse the Wotton Auction Rooms nearby.