Getting to the Cotswolds is refreshingly straightforward, whether you’re travelling from London, another part of the UK, or arriving from overseas. Thanks to its central location and excellent transport links, the Cotswolds is easy to reach by train, car, coach, or even via nearby airports — making it an ideal destination for both short breaks and longer stays.
This guide explains the best ways to get to the Cotswolds, helping you choose the option that suits your travel style, timeframe, and itinerary.
Where Are the Cotswolds Located?
The Cotswolds is a large rural region in south-central England, stretching across several counties including Gloucestershire and Oxfordshire. It sits within easy reach of major cities such as London, Oxford, and Bristol, which is one of the reasons it’s so popular for weekend escapes and scenic road trips.
Because the area covers hundreds of square miles, how you get to the Cotswolds — and where you base yourself — can make a big difference to your experience.
Getting to the Cotswolds by Train
Travelling by train is one of the easiest ways to get to the Cotswolds, especially if you’re coming from London or other major UK cities.
Direct trains run regularly from London Paddington to key Cotswolds stations including Moreton-in-Marsh, Kingham, and Stroud. Journey times typically range from 90 minutes to just under two hours.
Once you arrive, local buses, taxis, or car hire can help you explore surrounding villages, although services are more limited in rural areas.
Getting to the Cotswolds by Car
Driving is often the best way to get to the Cotswolds if you want maximum flexibility. The region is well connected by major roads, including the M40, M5, and A429, making it easily accessible from many parts of the UK.
From London, the drive usually takes between two and two-and-a-half hours, depending on traffic and your destination. Having a car allows you to explore quieter villages, scenic backroads, and countryside walks in the cotswolds that are harder to reach by public transport — ideal if you’re planning to see more than one location.
Getting to the Cotswolds by Coach
Coaches offer a budget-friendly way of getting to the Cotswolds, with services running from London and other large cities to towns such as Cheltenham and Cirencester.
While journeys are usually longer than by train, coaches can be a good option if you’re travelling light and heading to one of the larger Cotswolds towns with onward transport links.
Getting to the Cotswolds from Airports
If you’re visiting from abroad, several airports make getting to the Cotswolds straightforward. Heathrow Airport is the most popular option, with direct train and car routes into the region. Birmingham Airport and Bristol Airport are also convenient, depending on where you’re staying.
Hiring a car from the airport is often the easiest way to reach your accommodation and explore at your own pace.
Getting Around Once You Arrive
While getting to the Cotswolds is simple, getting around can take a bit more planning. Trains and buses connect many towns, but rural villages are best accessed by car. If you’re staying in one place, walking and cycling are great ways to explore the local area, especially along historic paths and countryside trails.
For ideas on where to base yourself, you may want to explore nearby guides on places to stay and places to visit in the Cotswolds.
Frequently Asked Questions About Getting to the Cotswolds
Is the Cotswolds easy to get to from London? Yes, the Cotswolds is very easy to reach from London, with direct trains from Paddington and straightforward driving routes.
What is the best way to get to the Cotswolds without a car? The train is the best option, particularly to towns like Moreton-in-Marsh or Kingham, followed by taxis or local buses.
How long does it take to get to the Cotswolds? Most journeys from London take between 1.5 and 2.5 hours, depending on whether you travel by train or car.
Which airport is closest to the Cotswolds? Heathrow is the most commonly used airport, although Birmingham and Bristol are also convenient.
Do I need a car in the Cotswolds? A car isn’t essential, but it makes exploring smaller villages and countryside spots much easier.
“Living here, I still appreciate how easy it is to get to the Cotswolds — whether friends arrive by train or car, they’re always surprised by how quickly the countryside replaces the city.”
