Shepherd's huts near Gloucester

Just east of Gloucester, the Cotswolds AONB is the postcard star of the English countryside. Think rolling green farmlands, winding country lanes, and idyllic villages built from the region’s characteristic golden stone. A road trip is the best way to explore, stopping to browse the artisan shops in Broadway or Chipping Norton, take a hike in the hills, or spend a night at a luxury glampsite.

Gloucester is a year-round destination—come in the summer to enjoy water sports along the river or cosy up at a quayside pub in the winter months. Summer (June through August) is festival season and brings the biggest crowds to the city, so book accommodation in advance. Mild temperatures make spring and autumn ideal for hiking in the AONBs, and the forests are particularly photogenic in fall.

• Gloucester has several camping and outdoors stores where you can pick up everything you need for your camping trip.
• Gloucester has public transport links to many of the surrounding towns and AONBs, but it is handy to have your own transport, especially if staying at rural campsites.
• Wild camping is illegal throughout the UK, although there are some areas where it is possible with permission from the landowners.