Discover the Cotswolds by Bike

Exploring the Cotswolds on two wheels is one of the finest ways to experience this beautiful part of England. Get on your bike and you will be able to see the many quintessentially English villages made of the areas famous yellow lime stone. Cycle down quite tree lined country lanes. Follow the meandering rivers and steams as they cut through the countryside. Take in the breath taking scenery as you glide past on your bike or simple stop at the road side and take some incredible holiday snaps.

The gentle activity of cycling seems to fit in perfectly with the gentle and relaxing atmosphere of the Cotswolds. The area is home to 1,900 square kilometres of AONB (Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty), grand estates, historical sites and pretty villages clustered around meandering streams.

There are a number of different potential routes available to cater for all levels of cycling experience, with plenty of relatively flat and gentle routes and more ambitious taxing paths all available. Cycling holiday specialists Compass have even more information on potential routes in and around the Cotswolds.

While out cycling a trop to Broadway Tower is a great stop. The tower was a holiday favourite for many artists and a trip to the top of the tower will leave you in no doubt why. Atop of the tower on a clear day you can see 13 counties and hardly surprisingly the tower claims to have on of the finest views in all of England.

Next stop on a trip should be the perhaps unfortunately named Upper and Lower Slaughter. Don't let the names up you off because the villages themselves are truly beautiful. Lowers Slaughter is the picture postcard village with its honey coloured lime stone buildings centered around the pretty river full of plants, bull rushes and fish. Upper Slaughter is a little wilder, in terms of nature, as it is set on a tree clad knoll overlooking the village's river ford. Both villages have been largely untouched by the modern world, as a result parking is difficult in the both villages.

Another great stop is the town of Bourton centered around the River Windrush. Cycling along the river itself makes for a great route into Bourton, which as with many Cotswods towns and villages retains an old world charm.

If two wheels aren't really your thing then there are plenty of other great ways to experience the Cotswolds. By car you can take the Romantic Road, two different routes which take you through the pretty villages, glorious countryside, peaceful river valleys and many more wonderful sights along the way. There are also plenty of great walking routes throughout the area too leaving you with an abundance off different ways to get more acquainted with this magnificent part of the country.

This article was written on behalf of Bailbrook Lodge providing Bath Accommodation ideal for a Bath Weekend Break.