4.6
(3317)
17,496
hikers
548
hikes
Hiking around Swell offers a network of easy hiking trails suitable for various abilities. The region features gentle ascents and descents, with routes often connecting historic market towns and picturesque villages. These paths provide opportunities to explore the local countryside, characterized by rolling terrain and established footpaths.
Last updated: May 3, 2026
4.8
(37)
139
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(14)
77
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.4
(16)
79
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(8)
68
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(4)
32
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Riding on the roadway is treacherous the speed limit is 100 km/hr trucks pass within inches no hard or soft shoulder
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In the case of a "market cross," as we encounter here again, one would have to ask the fundamental question of whether it is actually primarily a small sacred monument—as its cross shape suggests—or whether it is more of a secular object. In times long past, such a cross—unlike classic wayside crosses or field crosses—was only allowed to be erected if the corresponding locality also possessed so-called "market rights"—that is, if it had been granted them by the local ruler.
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You'll walk passed it on the route we took. Grown ups may not be hugely interested.
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We always love visiting any churches on our walks, the history, architecture etc are spectacular. FYI - This door is popular with instagrammers.
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Beautiful medieval church dating back to the 12th and 14th centuries, located in the small village of Broadwell.
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St Edward's Church is a medieval Grade I listed church situated in the stunning Cotswold's countryside near Stow-on-the-Wold. It's a fantastic building with many interesting features such as nave columns decorated with nailhead carvings, an enchanting doorway, and gargoyles and carvings in the shape of a human head.
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Great little café selling baguettes of all varieties, along with home made cakes.
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Great start & finish point. Lots of places to have a coffee, a cup of tea or something stronger and plenty of choice if you want something to eat too. Not an expert but the shopping looks interesting as well. Worth a visit.
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There are over 250 easy hiking trails available around Swell, offering a wide range of options for exploring the local countryside. In total, the komoot community has mapped over 550 hiking routes in the area.
Easy hikes around Swell are characterized by rolling hills, village paths, and established countryside trails. The routes generally feature gentle ascents and descents, making them accessible and enjoyable for various ability levels.
Yes, many of the easy routes around Swell are circular. For example, the Stow-on-the-Wold Market Cross – St Mary's Church, Lower Swell loop from Stow-on-the-Wold is a popular 4.5-mile circular trail, and the Market Cross, Stow-on-the-Wold – Stow-on-the-Wold Market Cross loop from Stow-on-the-Wold offers a 3.4-mile loop.
Many easy routes connect to local villages and towns. The Stow-on-the-Wold Market Cross – St Mary's Church, Lower Swell loop from Stow-on-the-Wold connects Stow-on-the-Wold with Lower Swell. Another option is the St Edward's Well – Stow-on-the-Wold Market Cross loop from Stow-on-the-Wold, which loops around Stow-on-the-Wold.
Easy hikes around Swell often pass by interesting landmarks. You can see the Stow-on-the-Wold Market Cross on several routes. Other nearby attractions include the picturesque Bourton-on-the-Water village and Lower Slaughter, known for its charm.
Yes, the rolling landscape of the Cotswolds offers several scenic viewpoints. While specific easy trails may vary, you can find stunning vistas like the View Over the Cotswold Peneplain and Views between Broadway Tower and Dover's Hill, which are accessible via various routes in the wider Swell area.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 3,200 reviews. Hikers often praise the well-maintained paths, the charming villages, and the gentle, scenic countryside that makes for relaxing and enjoyable walks.
Easy hikes around Swell typically range from 3 to 4.5 miles (5 to 7 km) and can be completed in approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. For instance, The Porch House – Stow-on-the-Wold Market Cross loop from Stow-on-the-Wold is 3.6 miles and takes about 1 hour 37 minutes.
Yes, many routes incorporate historical elements. The St Edward's Well – Stow-on-the-Wold Market Cross loop from Stow-on-the-Wold passes by St Edward's Well. Additionally, the iconic Broadway Tower is a prominent landmark in the wider region, accessible via various trails.
Yes, the villages and towns around Swell, such as Stow-on-the-Wold and Lower Swell, offer various pubs, cafes, and restaurants where you can refresh after your hike. Many routes start or pass through these settlements, making it convenient to find refreshments.
The spring, summer, and autumn months generally offer the most pleasant conditions for hiking in Swell, with milder temperatures and vibrant scenery. While winter hiking is possible, paths can be muddy, and daylight hours are shorter.
Yes, the easy hiking trails around Swell are generally well-suited for families. Their gentle gradients, manageable distances, and scenic village connections make them enjoyable for children and adults alike. Many routes offer opportunities to explore charming Cotswold scenery.


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