Coates loop via Monarch Way — The Cotswolds

Embark on an easy 2.6-mile (4.1 km) hike through the picturesque Cotswold countryside on the Coates loop via Monarch Way. This route, which takes about 1 hour and 4 minutes to complete, features a gentle elevation gain of 113 feet (34 metres), making it suitable for most fitness levels. You will enjoy views of rolling hills and fields, passing a beautiful stone bridge over the King's Reach, Thames & Severn Canal, and the historic Sapperton Canal Tunnel Entrance.

This easy trail primarily uses natural paths, with some paved sections, asphalt, and gravel underfoot. While the Coates loop itself is straightforward, be aware that other parts of the broader Monarch's Way can be less clearly signposted, so some map-reading skills might be helpful if you venture further. You can conveniently access the starting point of this loop using public transport.

This route is part of the much longer Monarch's Way, a 615-mile historical trail tracing King Charles II's escape route after the Battle of Worcester in 1651. Near the canal tunnel, you will find Tunnel House, a pub established in the 1780s for workers, which offers a glimpse into the region's industrial past. This historical connection adds a unique layer to your Cotswold hiking experience.