Circular Walk – Mickleton to Hidcote #Cotswolds

This Sunday we enjoyed a four mile walk starting at the church in Mickleton and passing by both Kiftsgate and Hidcote Gardens which are open to the public and well worth a visit. As the walk is only four miles it would easily be possible to visit both these magnificent gardens making a super whole day’s excursion.

There are some stunning views of the surrounding countryside with a variety of terrain including a couple of moderately steep hills as well as some wooded areas. The walk can be a bit muddy in places so proper boots are advisable. I managed to fall over in the mud and had to be righted by Robert – completely unhurt but disconcerted to have messed up my hitherto immaculate walking boots and trousers. Fortunately the light breeze dried my trousers and the mud brushed off to a presentable level.

The walk passes through the tiny villages of Hidcote Bartrim and Hidcote Boyce which is home to one of the Cotswold Hares, an ancient stone sculpture and a horse trough with some goldfish swimming in it – I don’t think it is used by horses.

On our return we enjoyed a light picnic, visited the church (boots off) then popped for a drink in the Kings Arms which is just round the corner. This pub has a bar and a dining area; the bar being ideal for walking attire. Although we haven’t sample the food yet (another visit) the menu reads well. The pub was quite busy so I think it would be best to book.

We find four miles is just enough when we have worked throughout the morning. There are lots of walks available on the Cotswolds Area of Natural Beauty website. Here is a link to a printable PDF of the walk:
https://www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/MWS-Mickleton-FINAL-1.pdf