The Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is famous worldwide for its honey-colored limestone villages, rolling hills, and traditional tearooms. While many travelers base themselves deep inside the tourist hotspots, staying just north in Alcester offers better value, quieter nights, and easier access. Here is our weekend guide to exploring northern Cotswolds from Warwickshire, starting from Kings Court Hotel.
The Perfect Gateway: Alcester to the Cotswold Hills
The northern gateway to the Cotswolds lies just 15 miles south of Alcester. Driving down the A435, you quickly transition from the flat valleys of the River Arrow into the rising hills and honey-stone architecture of Gloucestershire. Choosing to base yourself at Kings Court Hotel makes exploring northern Cotswolds from Warwickshire easy and stress-free.
Day 1: Chipping Campden and Broadway
Start your Cotswold tour in the historic market town of Chipping Campden. Stroll down the high street to admire the 17th-century Market Hall, visit the beautiful St. James Church, and browse the independent craft shops.
From there, take the scenic drive to Broadway, often called the 'Jewel of the Cotswolds'. Walk past beautiful honey-stone buildings, antique galleries, and tearooms. Afterward, drive up to the famous Broadway Tower, the highest castle in the Cotswolds, to enjoy views across sixteen counties.
"Staying in Alcester gives you the best of both worlds: you can spend your day exploring the beautiful Cotswold villages and return to a quiet, historic hotel with a traditional pub."
Day 2: Moreton-in-Marsh and Stow-on-the-Wold
On your second day, head to Stow-on-the-Wold, the highest town in the Cotswolds. Explore the historic market square, check out the ancient stocks, and visit the famous door of St. Edward's Church, framed by two ancient yew trees that inspired J.R.R. Tolkien.
On your way back, stop in Moreton-in-Marsh to walk the broad high street and explore the independent boutiques, cafes, and local cheese shops.
Make our historic hotel your home base for your Cotswold adventure. Check our room rates and book direct on our Rooms Page.
