Getting the Train to the Cotswolds | Stations, Routes & FAQs

The Cotswolds is one of the most picturesque and celebrated rural areas in England, famous for its stunning rolling hills, meandering country lanes and quaint villages. It's also easily accessible by train from many major cities in the UK, to the surprise of many. Below is our guide on getting to The Cotswold by rail, and what to check out whilst you’re there.

Why visit the Cotswolds?

Immediately noticeable due to its honey-coloured limestone cottages and quaint tea rooms, the Cotswolds boasts a rich and inviting heritage. Market towns like Burford, Chipping Campden, and Stow-on-the-Wold showcase centuries-old architecture and bustling marketplaces, and ancient churches, Medieval ruins and grand manor homes offer a number of unmissable sights.

With its vast network of footpaths, bridleways, and cycle routes, the Cotswolds is also a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering opportunities for hiking, cycling, horse riding, and wildlife spotting amidst stunning natural surroundings.

Local train stations in The Cotswolds

There are many ways to get to The Cotswolds by train for an enjoyable getaway, meaning you won’t have to worry about the long drive and limited parking. Popular stations in the include:

Moreton-in-Marsh

Located in the northern part of the Cotswolds, Moreton-in-Marsh is a major station that offers connections to London Paddington, Oxford, Worcester, and Hereford, making it the primary transportation hub for travellers exploring the Cotswolds. There are various, frequent buses which then link you to surrounding areas.

Ideal for those visiting: Moreton-in-Marsh, Stow-on-the-Wold, Chipping Campden and Broadway.

Cheltenham Spa

Situated near the southern edge of the Cotswolds, Cheltenham Spa is another important railway station serving the area. It provides connections to major cities such as London, Birmingham, Bristol, and Cardiff, as well as local destinations within the Cotswolds.

Ideal for those visiting: Cheltenham, Winchcombe, Bishop’s Cleeve and Cotswold Way.

Stroud

Located in the western part of the Cotswolds, Stroud is a railway station serving the surrounding areas of Painswick, Nailsworth and Minchinhampton. It offers connections to destinations such as Gloucester, Swindon, and London Paddington, providing access to the picturesque countryside and charming villages of the Cotswolds.

Ideal for those visiting: Stoud, Painswick, Nailsworth, Minchinhampton and Bisley.

Kemble

Situated in the eastern part of the Cotswolds, Kemble is a small railway station serving the local area. It offers connections to destinations such as Swindon, Gloucester, and London Paddington, making it a convenient starting point for exploring the Cotswolds.

Ideal for those visiting: Cirencester, Tetbury, Malmsbury, Fairford, Fairford and Lechlade-on-Thames.

Oxenholme Lake District

Although not technically within the Cotswolds region, Oxenholme Lake District station serves as a gateway to the area for travellers coming from the north. It offers connections to destinations such as Lancaster, Preston, and Glasgow, providing access to the scenic landscapes and charming villages of the Cotswolds.

Ideal for those visiting: Kendal, Windermere, Bowness-on-Windermere, Ambleside and Grasmere.

Popular train routes to The Cotswolds

London Paddington to Moreton-in-Marsh

This direct route from London Paddington to Moreton-in-Marsh provides easy access to the heart of the Cotswolds, with trains running every hour throughout the day. Moreton-in-Marsh is a charming market town with a bustling high street, historic buildings, and easy access to nearby attractions such as Batsford Arboretum and Sezincote House.

Birmingham New Street to Cheltenham Spa

Traveling from Birmingham New Street to Cheltenham Spa offers a convenient route to the Cotswolds, with frequent trains operating throughout the day. Cheltenham Spa is a Regency-era town known for its elegant architecture, vibrant cultural scene, and proximity to attractions such as the Cotswold Way and the Sudeley Castle.

Oxford to Stroud

The train journey from Oxford to Stroud provides a scenic route into the heart of the Cotswolds, with frequent services operating throughout the day. Stroud is a market town known for its artistic community, historic mills, and weekly farmers' market offering local produce and crafts.

Bristol Temple Meads to Kemble

Traveling from Bristol Temple Meads to Kemble offers a quick and convenient way to access the Cotswolds, with frequent trains operating throughout the day and into the night. Kemble is a picturesque village with easy access to attractions such as the Cotswold Water Park, Westonbirt Arboretum, and the market town of Cirencester.

Reading to Hereford (via Oxford)

Starting from Reading and transferring to the Cotswold Line in Oxford provides an indirect but scenic route to the Cotswolds, with frequent services operating throughout the day. The Cotswold Line then runs from Oxford to Hereford, passing through stunning countryside and charming villages such as Charlbury and Kingham along the way.

Things to do in The Cotswolds

Walk the Cotswold Way: Embark on a hike along the Cotswold Way, a long-distance footpath that stretches for 102 miles through the region's beautiful countryside. Enjoy scenic views, charming villages, and peaceful woodlands as you traverse this renowned trail.

Experience Outdoor Activities: Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Cotswolds by participating in outdoor activities such as cycling, horse riding, and wildlife spotting. With its network of footpaths, bridleways, and cycle routes, the Cotswolds offers ample opportunities for outdoor adventure amidst stunning scenery.

Indulge in Local Cuisine: Sample delicious regional cuisine at cozy pubs, charming tearooms, and gourmet restaurants scattered throughout the Cotswolds. Be sure to try local specialties such as Cotswold lamb, Gloucestershire Old Spot pork, and traditional afternoon tea.

Explore Charming Villages: Wander through picturesque villages such as Bourton-on-the-Water, Bibury, and Castle Combe, each boasting quaint honey-coloured stone cottages, historic churches, and idyllic village greens.

Visit Historic Sites: Discover the region's rich history by exploring historic landmarks such as Blenheim Palace, Sudeley Castle, and Broadway Tower. These stately homes and castles offer insights into the Cotswolds' past and provide stunning settings for exploration.