At Toghill House Farm, we love our community and everything it has to offer. Being in the beautiful location on the edge of the Cotswolds, we are lucky to be surrounded by stunning countryside and great historical relics. We want to share our amazing corner of the country with everyone to see, that’s why we’ve put together this compact guide to the iconic Cotswold Way.
- Brief History
In terms of the Cotswold’s steep Jurassic history, the history of the official Cotswold Way is relatively recent. The path was first put forward as a long-distance footpath by the members of the Rambler’s Association in 1970. However, Cotswold Way wasn’t given approval for development as a national trail until 1998. Even then, it wasn’t until May 2007 that Cotswold Way became an official National Trail, in conjunction with Cotswold AONB. There are many historic and heritage sites along the Cotswold Way path to see. Belas Knap Long Barrow is a great example of Bronze Age construction. A wonderful stop on the path for history lovers and experienced ramblers.
- Getting There
There are many ways to explore the great Cotswold way trail as it passes through many villages and towns. The Cotswolds are easily accessible by Rail, Road and Bus. There are mainline trains direct to the Cotswolds from London, the Midlands and the North and South West of England. The Cotswolds are served by great links to London, Birmingham and the national motorway network via the M4, M5 and M40. The Cotswolds have excellent Public Transport services, with regular buses throughout villages and towns. For more information, check out the Explore the Cotswolds by Public Transport Guide.
- Places to Eat
When you stay at the Toghill House farm, you automatically receive the Bath Reward Card. This will give you great offers and discounts at plenty of shops, restaurants and attractions in Bath. A selection of restaurants includes:
- The Locksbrook Inn – 103 Locksbrook Rd, Bath, BA1 3EN – 01225 427119
“contemporary, classic gastropub located right by the canal.”
- The Real Italian Pizza Company – 16 York Street, Bath, BA1 1NG – 01225 330121
“Family owned pizzeria, using traditional culinary techniques and authentic Italian ingredients.”
- La Taverna Grill – 83 Lower Bristol Rd, Bath BA2 3BQ – 01225 444417
“A grill bistro dedicated to bringing a combination of grilled dishes with a Mediterranean touch.”
- Sally Lunns – 4 North Parade Passage, Bath, BA1 1NX –
“Home of Bath’s world-famous Bun since 1680. Historic English dinners in a fabulous candlelit atmosphere.”
- Places to See
The wonderful sights and amazing wildlife are a constant along the Cotswold Way and will never fail to show you beauty and wonder of nature. Whilst you’re trekking the trail, you might want to stop off at one of these great landmarks.
- Roman Baths – Abbey Church Yard, Bath BA1 1LZ – 01225 477785
One of the largest tourist attractions in the South West, the Roman Baths show a remarkable insight into how people really lived. A True piece of history, right beneath your feet.
- Blenheim Palace – Woodstock, Oxfordshire, OX20 1PP – 01993 810530
The beautiful birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill is one of the most famous stops on the way. Walk through the grounds that are steeped in history and culture. A must for history lovers.
- Painswick Rococo Gardens – Gloucester Rd, Painswick, Stroud GL6 6TH – 01452 813204
This sophisticated setting is the country’s sole surviving complete rococo garden, designed in the 1740s. There are so many fun things to do, it’s a great attraction for the whole family.
- Stanway House & Fountain – Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL54 5PQ – 01386 584469
The spectacular Stanway House and fountain display are a great example of a Jacobean Manor house, with an astounding 300ft single jet fountain that is the highest fountain in Britain.
- Useful links
There is so much to see and do along the 102-mile long trail, you’re spoiled for choice. Did you know, there is even an annual 10-stage relay race? The Cotswold Way trek is just one of the many things you can do when you visit the Toghill House Farm.