If your New Year’s resolution involves spending more time outdoors and embracing nature, the Cotswolds offers an enchanting escape. Renowned for its rolling hills and quintessential English villages, this region spans 800 square miles filled with countless scenic walking routes.
Among these, the Slaughters Walk stands out as an ideal January stroll. Located just 40 minutes from Gloucester, this easy, family-friendly walk links the two charming villages of Upper Slaughter and Lower Slaughter. Shared widely on TikTok by The Cotswolds Chronicles, the walk is praised for its postcard-perfect landscapes and serene atmosphere.
Despite their names, Upper Slaughter and Lower Slaughter derive from an Old English term meaning “muddy place.” Connected by the tranquil River Eye—a tributary of the River Windrush—the villages offer a peaceful backdrop for this circular walking route.
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The 3.21-kilometer (just under two miles) loop allows walkers to start in either village, journey through the countryside to the other village, and return along a different path. Depending on your pace and photo stops, it typically takes around 50 minutes to complete.
The Cotswolds Chronicles describe the experience as perfect for January: “There is nothing better than the crunch of the path underfoot and the winter sun hitting that famous honey-coloured stone.” The walk is flat and gentle, making it suitable for children, although it’s not fully pushchair-friendly due to some natural trail sections and a wooden boardwalk.
Rated an impressive 4.6 out of 5 on TripAdvisor, visitors laud the Slaughters Walk for its peace and tranquility, describing it as a soul-refreshing retreat. Reviewers highlight the easy-to-follow path alongside meadows and the river, perfect for a leisurely stroll or picnic.
Whether you seek a quiet escape or a gentle family walk, the Slaughters Walk in the Cotswolds offers stunning scenery and a timeless countryside experience that truly feels like stepping into a postcard.