Upper Slaughter, a tranquil Cotswold village adored by its few inhabitants, is brimming with golden-stone buildings, a babbling river and verdant green spaces – it’s as if it’s been plucked straight from a fairytale.

Adding to its allure, the area offers plenty for visitors seeking a quintessentially British adventure in the heart of the stunning countryside. Despite its secluded location, the village is easily accessible by car and provides two main parking areas for day-trippers.

For those yearning for a brief escape from urban life, it’s just about 80 miles from London, meaning you can reach this charming village in less than two hours and enjoy a breath of fresh air. Locals suggest that upon arrival in Upper Slaughter, you should park around the Square (GL54 2JE) or seek additional spaces down the hill in what’s known as Lower Slaughter.

Adding to its intrigue, this small area, home to approximately 181 residents, was among the handful of English villages that didn’t lose any men during both World Wars. Rolls of honour are proudly displayed in the village hall, listing the 25 individuals who served in the first war and all returned safely, reports <a href=”https://www.gloucestershirelive.co.uk/news/gloucester-news/picture-perfect-cotswolds-village-attraction-10560408″>Gloucestershire Live</a>.

Things to do

Enjoy a leisurely stroll around the village

Nothing provides tranquillity quite like a stroll through this picturesque village.

Whilst it shares similarities with neighbouring Cotswolds settlements, Upper Slaughter is renowned for its magnificent Lutyens cottages.

Remnants of medieval history are dotted throughout the village, and whilst a majestic castle once commanded the landscape, only earthwork traces of its foundations survive today.

Additional rambles are on offer locally, including a brief 2-mile route connecting Upper Slaughter to Lower Slaughter.

However, the premier trail and leading attraction in the vicinity, according to TripAdvisor, remains the Warden’s Way expedition.

A TripAdvisor review says: “Wardens’ Way is one of the many beautiful walking trails in the Cotswolds area. It features easy paths that lead through very scenic countryside.

“We walked alongside small rivers and waterways, across meadows and farmland, and passed through charming villages with honey-stone cottages. The trail runs between Bourton-on-the-Water and Winchcombe, and if you were to do the whole thing, it is a 22 km walk.”

Upper Slaughter Manor

Brimming with historical narratives, this spectacular manor attracts countless visitors drawn to its Elizabethan-inspired design and exquisite grounds.

Although the present structure evolved from the 15th century, incorporating Tudor and Jacobean elements, its roots stretch back to Saxon times, with its presence documented in the Domesday Book of 1086. Visitors can book accommodation at the manor, which now operates as both a hotel and restaurant.

One TripAdvisor reviewer shared their experience, writing: “How lovely to visit a private house where it is evident that the owners have such a pride in their home and gardens.

“A delight to visit, lovely peaceful gardens with a wildlife walk. Enjoyed refreshments in the well-kept garden. The house tour is interesting, and how fabulous to have such great philanthropists in this country.”

St Peter’s Church

This ancient church stands at the village’s centre and welcomes visitors throughout the day, whether attending services or simply exploring inside.

Records suggest a place of worship has occupied this exact location since the 12th century, possibly earlier, with documented evidence dating back to 1251.

One TripAdvisor user said: “The church is perhaps the most significant building in the tiny village of Upper Slaughter. It is a characteristic medieval church with two naves and a crenellated bell tower, with some forms of Saxon and Norman origin.

“Around you have the classic cemetery park. The place is well-kept and less frequented by mass tourism; we reached it on foot from the nearby village of Lower Slaughter through the path that crosses the countryside.”