It’s easy rolling in most directions from this engaging market town slap bang in the middle of the north Cotswolds. With some shops, a pub stop and an easy walk in there too. For Cotswolds Private Tours, visit https://cotswoldtour.co.uk/cotswolds-private-tours
Square and smaller streets first
Start at the Market Square and slowly wind your way around some of its offshoots. Stow is great for:
Independent homeware and gift shops
Antiques and vintage finds
Quick grab and go snack – Delis and Sweets
If you visit on the weekend, try to go earlier in the day for a more peaceful experience.
Choose a pub for lunch
Stow has a fair number of cosy pubs, and lunchtime can be quieter and less expensive than nighttime. If you are travelling by car, ensure that there is parking available for your stay and book in advance during the holiday season.
A Short Walk (45-60 minutes)
Take a recovery loop after lunch:
Stroll out of town along the quieter lanes around Stow.
Follow the paths across wide open fields to gain that classic Cotswold vista.
Head back into town for one last coffee or a bakery treat.
This type of walk allows you to enjoy the countryside sights without having to set aside hours for walking.
Practical tips
Take shoes suitable for walking in the rain.
Pack a lightweight layer, as it can be quite windy on open terrain.
Shops followed by a pub and a short walk, and if you’re running out of daylight, head to the next village.
Stow is somewhere you should wander slowly, take the day off and then go back again on your way to join the locals window shopping and taking in the atmosphere.